Psalms 51:14

Authorized King James Version

Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַצִּ֘ילֵ֤נִי
H5337
Deliver
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense
#2
מִדָּמִ֨ים׀
H1818
me from bloodguiltiness
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#3
אֱלֹהֵ֥י
H430
O God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#4
אֱלֹהֵ֥י
H430
O God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#5
תְּשׁוּעָתִ֑י
H8668
of my salvation
rescue (literal or figurative, persons, national or spiritual)
#6
תְּרַנֵּ֥ן
H7442
shall sing aloud
properly, to creak (or emit a stridulous sound), i.e., to shout (usually for joy)
#7
לְ֝שׁוֹנִ֗י
H3956
and my tongue
the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,
#8
צִדְקָתֶֽךָ׃
H6666
of thy righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood righteousness. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection