Psalms 69:6

Authorized King James Version

Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord GOD of hosts, be ashamed for my sake: let not those that seek thee be confounded for my sake, O God of Israel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
יֵ֘בֹ֤שׁוּ
be ashamed
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
#3
בִ֨י׀
H0
#4
קוֶֹיךָ֮
Let not them that wait
to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e., collect; (figuratively) to expect
#5
אֲדֹנָ֥י
on thee O Lord
the lord (used as a proper name of god only)
#6
יְהוִ֗ה
GOD
god
#7
צְבָ֫א֥וֹת
of hosts
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
#8
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#9
יִכָּ֣לְמוּ
thee be confounded
properly, to wound; but only figuratively, to taunt or insult
#10
בִ֣י
H0
#11
מְבַקְשֶׁ֑יךָ
for my sake let not those that seek
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#12
אֱ֝לֹהֵ֗י
for my sake O 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
#13
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection