Psalms 5:11
But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
The theme of joy in God despite circumstances runs throughout Scripture and Israel's history. When Israel crossed the Red Sea with Pharaoh's army destroyed, they sang joyfully (Exodus 15). When the ark returned to Jerusalem, David danced before the Lord with all his might (2 Samuel 6:14). When the temple foundation was laid after exile, people shouted with great joy (Ezra 3:11-13). This joy wasn't circumstantial happiness but theological celebration—recognizing God's faithfulness, power, and covenant love.
The contrast between joy in the Lord and worldly happiness marked Israel's distinctiveness among nations. Pagan religions offered various benefits but not joy—their gods were capricious, distant, or demanding. Israel's God was covenant-faithful, personally present, and graciously protective. This produced joy even in hardship. Habakkuk declares, "Although the fig tree shall not blossom... yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation" (Habakkuk 3:17-18). Such joy transcends circumstances.
For Christians, this joy finds ultimate expression in the gospel. Jesus endured the cross "for the joy that was set before him" (Hebrews 12:2)—the joy of redeeming His people. Believers "rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory" (1 Peter 1:8) even while suffering trials. Paul and Silas sang hymns in prison (Acts 16:25). The early church faced persecution "rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name" (Acts 5:41). This supernatural joy, produced by the Holy Spirit, testifies to the reality and sufficiency of God in ways mere doctrine cannot.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the joy described in this verse differ from circumstantial happiness or positive emotions?
- What does it look like practically to 'shout for joy' in worship, and what might prevent such exuberant expression?
- How can you cultivate joy 'in God Himself' rather than merely joy in His blessings or answers to prayer?
- What does it mean to 'love God's name' (His revealed character), and how does this love produce joy?
- How does confidence in God's defense ('thou defendest them') enable joy even when facing opposition or hardship?
Analysis & Commentary
But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. This verse celebrates the blessed condition of those who trust God, contrasting sharply with the judgment pronounced on the wicked in preceding verses (9-10). The threefold repetition—"rejoice... shout for joy... be joyful"—emphasizes the joy characteristic of God's people, rooted not in circumstances but in divine protection and relationship.
"All those that put their trust in thee" (kol-chosay veka, כָּל־חוֹסֵי בְךָ) uses chasah, meaning to take refuge, seek shelter, trust. This is active, volitional trust—choosing God as refuge rather than other securities. The universal "all those" indicates this blessing extends to every person who trusts God, regardless of ethnicity, status, or background. Trust in God is the great equalizer and unifier of His people. Romans 10:11 affirms, "Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."
"Rejoice" (yismachu, יִשְׂמָחוּ) and "shout for joy" (y'ranenu, יְרַנְּנוּ) describe exuberant gladness—not quiet contentment but vocal, visible celebration. Ranan means to cry out, give a ringing cry, shout joyfully. This is worship that can't be contained, faith that overflows in praise. The imperfect tense indicates ongoing, habitual action—God's people continuously rejoice, not just occasionally when circumstances warrant. This joy transcends circumstances, rooted in God's character and covenant faithfulness rather than temporary conditions.
"Because thou defendest them" (ki-tasakk alemoh, כִּי־תָשֶׂךְ עָלֵימוֹ) provides the basis for joy. Sakak means to cover, shield, protect, fence in. The image is of God covering His people like a shield, providing protection from enemies and dangers. Psalm 91:4 uses similar imagery: "He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler." Joy isn't naive optimism but confidence grounded in divine protection. Believers can rejoice even amid trouble because God defends them (cf. Romans 5:3-5).
"That love thy name" (ohavey sh'meka, אֹהֲבֵי שְׁמֶךָ) identifies God's people by their love for His name. In Hebrew thought, the "name" represents the person's full character, reputation, and revealed nature. To love God's name means to love God Himself—His attributes, His ways, His revealed truth. This love isn't sentimental affection but covenant devotion, demonstrated through obedience and worship. Jesus said, "If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Love for God's name produces joy "in thee" (bakh)—joy grounded in God Himself, not in blessings received. This is the highest joy: finding delight in who God is rather than merely what He provides.