Psalms 85:4

Turn us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שׁ֭וּבֵנוּ

H7725

Turn

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

אֱלֹהֵ֣י

H430

us 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

יִשְׁעֵ֑נוּ

H3468

of our salvation

liberty, deliverance, prosperity

וְהָפֵ֖ר

H6565

toward us to cease

to break up (usually figuratively), i.e., to violate, frustrate

כַּֽעַסְךָ֣

H3708

and cause thine anger

vexation

עִמָּֽנוּ׃

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

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 salvation encompasses justification, sanctification, and glorification in the ordo salutis and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show rescue narratives from ancient literature that would resonate with the audience, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on salvation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of salvation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?