Psalms 69:16

Hear me, O LORD; for thy lovingkindness is good: turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies.

Word-by-Word Analysis

עֲנֵ֣נִי

H6030

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,

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

me O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ט֣וֹב

H2896

is good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

חַסְדֶּ֑ךָ

H2617

for thy lovingkindness

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty

כְּרֹ֥ב

H7230

unto me according to the multitude

abundance (in any respect)

רַ֝חֲמֶ֗יךָ

H7356

of thy tender mercies

compassion (in the plural)

פְּנֵ֣ה

H6437

turn

to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc

אֵלָֽי׃

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

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 divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about hesed in the Old Testament and agape in the New Testament.

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 Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does the divine love theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding divine love as presented in this verse, particularly in light of responding to cultural confusion about the nature of love and relationships?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address the problem of evil and suffering in light of God's goodness, and how should the church respond?