Psalms 56:11

In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בֵּֽאלֹהִ֣ים

H430

In 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

בָּ֭טַחְתִּי

H982

have I put my trust

properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

אִירָ֑א

H3372

I will not be afraid

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

מַה

H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

יַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה

H6213

can do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אָדָ֣ם

H120

what man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

לִֽי׃

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 literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?