Psalms 56:4

In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בֵּאלֹהִ֣ים

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

אֲהַלֵּ֪ל

H1984

I will praise

to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ

דְּבָ֫ר֥וֹ

H1697

his word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

בֵּאלֹהִ֣ים

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

I have 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 fear

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

#10

בָשָׂ֣ר

H1320

what flesh

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

#11

לִֽי׃

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 56 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?