Psalms 60:1

O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֱ֭לֹהִים

H430

O 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

זְנַחְתָּ֣נוּ

H2186

thou hast cast us off

reject, forsake, fail

פְרַצְתָּ֑נוּ

H6555

thou hast scattered

to break out (in many applications, direct and indirect, literal and figurative)

אָ֝נַ֗פְתָּ

H599

us thou hast been displeased

to breathe hard, i.e., be enraged

תְּשׁ֣וֹבֵ֥ב

H7725

O turn thyself to us again

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

לָֽנוּ׃

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 historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?