Psalms 54:3

For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

זָרִ֨ים׀

H2114

For strangers

to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery

קָ֤מוּ

H6965

are risen up

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

עָלַ֗י

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

וְֽ֭עָרִיצִים

H6184

against me and oppressors

fearful, i.e., powerful or tyrannical

בִּקְשׁ֣וּ

H1245

seek

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

נַפְשִׁ֑י

H5315

after my soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

לֹ֤א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָׂ֨מוּ

H7760

they have not set

to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)

#10

אֱלֹהִ֖ים

H430

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

#11

לְנֶגְדָּ֣ם

H5048

a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before

#12

סֶֽלָה׃

H5542

before them Selah

suspension (of music), i.e., pause

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 54 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?