Psalms 62:8

Authorized King James Version

Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בִּטְח֘וּ

H982

Trust

properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure

ב֤וֹ

בְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עֵ֨ת׀

H6256

in him at all times

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

עָ֗ם

H5971

ye people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

שִׁפְכֽוּ

H8210

pour out

to spill forth (blood, a libation, liquid metal; or even a solid, i.e., to mound up); also (figuratively) to expend (life, soul, complaint, money, etc

לְפָנָ֥יו

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

לְבַבְכֶ֑ם

H3824

your heart

the heart (as the most interior organ)

אֱלֹהִ֖ים

H430

him 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

#10

מַחֲסֶה

H4268

is a refuge

a shelter (literally or figuratively)

#11

לָּ֣נוּ

#12

סֶֽלָה׃

H5542

for us Selah

suspension (of music), i.e., pause

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. 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

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 62 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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 understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?