Psalms 61:7

Authorized King James Version

He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יֵשֵׁ֣ב
H3427
He shall abide
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#2
ע֭וֹלָם
H5769
for ever
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
#3
לִפְנֵ֣י
H6440
before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#4
אֱלֹהִ֑ים
H430
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
#5
חֶ֥סֶד
H2617
mercy
kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty
#6
וֶ֝אֱמֶ֗ת
H571
and truth
stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness
#7
מַ֣ן
H4487
O prepare
properly, to weigh out; by implication, to allot or constitute officially; also to enumerate or enroll
#8
יִנְצְרֻֽהוּ׃
H5341
which may preserve
to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)

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 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 truth. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection