Psalms 86:2

Authorized King James Version

Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שָֽׁמְרָ֣ה

H8104

Preserve

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

נַפְשִׁי֮

H5315

my soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

כִּֽי

H3588

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

חָסִ֪יד

H2623

for I am holy

properly, kind, i.e., (religiously) pious (a saint)

אָ֥נִי

H589

הוֹשַׁ֣ע

H3467

save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

עַ֭בְדְּךָ

H5650

thy servant

a servant

אַתָּ֣ה

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

אֱלֹהַ֑י

H430

O thou my 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

הַבּוֹטֵ֥חַ

H982

that trusteth

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

#11

אֵלֶֽיךָ׃

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 86 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?