Psalms 55:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 55:17
17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
Chapter Context
Psalms 55 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, mercy, obedience. 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 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 55:17
17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
Analysis
The threefold daily prayer pattern ('evening, morning, and at noon') anticipates Daniel's practice (Daniel 6:10) and reflects Jewish devotional tradition. The Hebrew 'siach' (meditate/complain) shows that prayer encompasses both pouring out grief and meditative worship. God's hearing is certain ('he shall hear my voice'), demonstrating that frequency in prayer flows from relationship, not ritual.
Historical Context
The three daily prayer times became standard in Jewish practice, corresponding to morning sacrifice, evening sacrifice, and midday. This discipline maintained covenant fellowship throughout the day regardless of circumstances.
Reflection
- How does regular prayer rhythm shape your awareness of God's presence throughout daily life?
- In what ways does persistent prayer in suffering differ from vain repetition?
Cross-References
- Prayer: Psalms 141:2, Daniel 6:10, Mark 1:35, Acts 3:1, 10:9, Ephesians 6:18
- Parallel theme: Psalms 92:2, 119:62