Psalms 56:12
Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.
Original Language Analysis
עָלַ֣י
H5921
עָלַ֣י
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 6
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
אֱלֹהִ֣ים
are upon me O God
H430
אֱלֹהִ֣ים
are upon me O God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
2 of 6
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
נְדָרֶ֑יךָ
Thy vows
H5088
נְדָרֶ֑יךָ
Thy vows
Strong's:
H5088
Word #:
3 of 6
a promise (to god); also (concretely) a thing promised
אֲשַׁלֵּ֖ם
I will render
H7999
אֲשַׁלֵּ֖ם
I will render
Strong's:
H7999
Word #:
4 of 6
to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate
Historical Context
Vows in ancient Israel were legally binding and made in contexts of crisis or petition. Failure to fulfill vows was serious sin (Ecclesiastes 5:4-6). David's vows likely included sacrifices and public testimony of God's deliverance once he became king.
Questions for Reflection
- What vows or commitments have you made to God that require fulfillment?
- How does viewing thanksgiving as covenant obligation rather than optional sentiment change your practice?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Vows made to God create covenant obligation. The Hebrew 'neder' (vow) was a serious commitment, often involving sacrifices or service. David's vows are 'upon me' indicating binding obligation. 'I will render praises' shows that thanksgiving is not optional emotional response but covenant duty owed to God for deliverance.