Psalms 86:4

Authorized King James Version

Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שַׂ֭מֵּחַ

H8055

Rejoice

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

נַפְשִׁ֥י

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

עַבְדֶּ֑ךָ

H5650

of thy servant

a servant

כִּ֥י

H3588

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

אֵלֶ֥יךָ

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

אֲ֝דֹנָ֗י

H136

for unto thee O Lord

the lord (used as a proper name of god only)

נַפְשִׁ֥י

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

אֶשָּֽׂא׃

H5375

do I lift up

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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 passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?