Psalms 44:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 44:23
23 Awake, why sleepest thou, O Lord? arise, cast us not off for ever.
Chapter Context
Psalms 44 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, grace, redemption. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 44:23
23 Awake, why sleepest thou, O Lord? arise, cast us not off for ever.
Analysis
The bold imperative: 'Awake, why sleepest thou, O Lord?' This anthropomorphic language doesn't suggest God actually sleeps but expresses the felt experience of divine inactivity. 'Arise, cast us not off for ever' pleads for intervention. The prayer assumes God can act but apparently chooses not to, creating the theological tension.
Historical Context
The command to 'awake' echoes earlier prayers (Psalms 7:6; 35:23) and Elijah's mockery of Baal's prophets whose god might be 'sleeping' (1 Kings 18:27). Israel's God is neither sleeping nor powerless--hence the urgency of the cry.
Reflection
- Is it appropriate to tell God to 'wake up'? What does such bold prayer reveal about relationship?
- How do we pray when God seems inactive without accusing Him of negligence?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H136 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Psalms 7:6
- References Lord: Psalms 35:23, 78:65