Psalms 60:5

That thy beloved may be delivered; save with thy right hand, and hear me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְ֭מַעַן

H4616

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

יֵחָלְצ֣וּן

H2502

may be delivered

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

יְדִידֶ֑יךָ

H3039

That thy beloved

loved

הוֹשִׁ֖יעָה

H3467

save

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

יְמִֽינְךָ֣

H3225

with thy right hand

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

וַעֲנֵֽנִו׃

H6030

and hear

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

Analysis

The divine love theme here intersects with God's covenantal faithfulness demonstrated throughout salvation history. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation from covenant love in the Old Testament to agape love in the New. The phrase emphasizing love fundamental to theology proper, revealing God's essential nature and character and connects to the broader scriptural witness about hesed in the Old Testament and agape in the New Testament.

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 love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 60 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from covenant faithfulness to sacrificial love demonstrated in Christ, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?