Psalms 56:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 56:10
10 In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word.
Chapter Context
Psalms 56 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, redemption, 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 13-13: Central message and teachings
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 56:10
10 In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word.
Analysis
The repetition of verse 4 with 'LORD' (YHWH) replacing 'God' intensifies the covenant dimension. Praising both God's 'word' and the LORD's 'word' emphasizes Scripture's divine origin. Trust in YHWH specifically invokes Israel's covenant name for God, grounding confidence in particular historical promises rather than generic theism.
Historical Context
The use of both Elohim (God) and YHWH (LORD) is characteristic of psalmic poetry, emphasizing different aspects of God's character—His universal sovereignty and His particular covenant faithfulness to Israel respectively.
Reflection
- How does knowing God through His covenant name (YHWH) deepen trust beyond acknowledging His existence?
- What specific covenant promises correspond to your present needs?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Word: Matthew 24:35