Psalms 6:4

Return, O LORD, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שׁוּבָ֣ה

H7725

Return

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

חַלְּצָ֣ה

H2502

deliver

to pull off; hence (intensively) to strip, (reflexive) to depart; by implication, to deliver, equip (for fight); present, strengthen

נַפְשִׁ֑י

H5315

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

ה֝וֹשִׁיעֵ֗נִי

H3467

oh save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

לְמַ֣עַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

חַסְדֶּֽךָ׃

H2617

me for thy mercies

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

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

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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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?