Psalms 63:7
Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
הָיִ֣יתָ
H1961
הָיִ֣יתָ
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
2 of 7
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
וּבְצֵ֖ל
therefore in the shadow
H6738
וּבְצֵ֖ל
therefore in the shadow
Strong's:
H6738
Word #:
5 of 7
shade, whether literal or figurative
Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:10Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;Psalms 27:9Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.Psalms 57:1Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.Psalms 61:4I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.Psalms 5:11But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.Psalms 17:8Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,1 Samuel 17:37David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee.Psalms 21:1The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!
Historical Context
The wings imagery connects to the ark of the covenant's cherubim (Exodus 25:20) and possibly eagles sheltering their young (Deuteronomy 32:11). Both images convey protective covering and covenant relationship.
Questions for Reflection
- How does past experience of God's help strengthen present trust?
- What does taking refuge under God's wings mean in your current circumstances?
Analysis & Commentary
The image of God's wings as refuge recalls the cherubim's wings over the mercy seat, connecting divine protection to covenant atonement. 'Because thou hast been my help' grounds future confidence in past faithfulness. Rejoicing 'in the shadow of thy wings' depicts secure joy under divine covering, anticipating Christ's lament over Jerusalem refusing this shelter (Matthew 23:37).