Psalms 57:10

For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

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

גָדֹ֣ל

H1419

is great

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

עַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

שָׁמַ֣יִם

H8064

unto the heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

חַסְדֶּ֑ךָ

H2617

For thy mercy

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty

וְֽעַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

שְׁחָקִ֥ים

H7834

unto the clouds

a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament

אֲמִתֶּֽךָ׃

H571

and thy truth

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to Psalms. The concept of truth reflects the development of divine love within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human 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. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of Psalms Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes truth in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on truth address the problem of evil and suffering in light of God's goodness, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding truth in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about divine love?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 57 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?