Psalms 130:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 130:2
2 Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.
Chapter Context
Psalms 130 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, salvation. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-8: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 130:2
2 Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.
Analysis
The cry continues with plea for divine attention: 'LORD, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.' The double reference to 'voice' emphasizes verbal prayer - words spoken in desperation. The imperative 'hear' (Hebrew 'shama') means to listen with intent to respond, not merely perceive sound. The phrase 'let thine ears be attentive' personalizes God anthropomorphically - giving Him ears suggests He actively listens. 'Attentive' (Hebrew 'qashab') means to prick up ears, pay close attention, be alert. The description 'voice of my supplications' specifies the prayer type - not praise or thanksgiving but petitions for mercy and help. Supplications (Hebrew 'tachanunim') come from root meaning to show favor or be gracious. The verse demonstrates bold prayer - asking God to listen carefully, not casually. Faith enables direct appeal for divine attention.
Historical Context
The plea for God to hear appears throughout psalms (5:1-2; 17:1; 39:12; 55:1-2; 61:1; 64:1; 102:1; 143:1), establishing pattern of bold prayer. Biblical theology affirms God hears His people's cries (Exodus 2:24; 3:7; 1 Kings 9:3), making such appeals appropriate based on covenant relationship.
Reflection
- What gives believers confidence to ask God to 'hear' and 'be attentive' as if commanding Him?
- How does the double reference to 'voice' emphasize verbal, articulated prayer?
- What is the difference between God hearing and God being 'attentive' to prayer?
- How do 'supplications' differ from other forms of prayer (praise, thanksgiving, confession)?
- Why is it significant that the psalmist prays 'my voice' and 'my supplications' - how does prayer become personal?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H136 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 17:1, 140:6, Nehemiah 1:11, Isaiah 37:17
- Parallel theme: Psalms 28:2, 64:1, 2 Chronicles 6:40, Nehemiah 1:6