Psalms 132:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 132:10
10 For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.
Chapter Context
Psalms 132 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, love, wisdom. 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 132:10
10 For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.
Analysis
The prayer appeals to Davidic covenant: 'For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.' The word 'for' provides basis for the request - David's faithful service provides grounds for blessing his descendants. 'Thy servant David' emphasizes David's role as God's chosen, faithful servant. The plea 'turn not away the face' means don't reject or refuse - turning away one's face indicates rejection or displeasure. The phrase 'thine anointed' (meshiach - messiah) refers to David's descendant, the reigning king. Every Davidic king was 'the LORD's anointed' (1 Samuel 24:6; 2 Samuel 1:14). The prayer asks God to continue favoring Davidic dynasty based on covenant promises. This reflects understanding that God's relationship with current king depends partly on covenant with David. Christians see ultimate fulfillment in Christ, David's greater son, whose face God will never turn away.
Historical Context
God established covenant with David promising eternal dynasty (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 89:3-4, 28-37). Each subsequent king ruled under this covenant. The prayer appears to come from Solomon's era or later, appealing to Davidic covenant for continued blessing. Despite individual kings' failures, God maintained the line, ultimately fulfilled in Christ.
Reflection
- How does David's faithfulness provide basis for blessing his descendants?
- What does 'turn not away the face' reveal about the importance of God's favorable presence?
- How does the title 'thine anointed' anticipate Christ, the ultimate Anointed One?
- In what ways do believers appeal to Christ's righteousness when approaching God?
- How does the Davidic covenant demonstrate God's faithfulness across generations?