Psalms 57:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 57:11
11 Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.
Chapter Context
Psalms 57 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, covenant, 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 6-11: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 57:11
11 Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.
Analysis
The repetition of verse 5 as the psalm's conclusion creates an inclusio, framing the entire composition with doxology. This structure teaches that proper response to deliverance is not self-congratulation but ascribing glory to God. The progression from David's plight (v.1-4) through deliverance (v.6) to praise (v.7-11) models the structure of redemptive history itself.
Historical Context
This refrain's repetition would aid congregational worship, allowing the assembly to join David's testimony. The Psalter's liturgical function means individual experience becomes communal worship, as Israel corporately identifies with David's trials and deliverances.
Reflection
- How does your testimony of God's faithfulness serve the broader church community?
- What does the repetition of doxology teach about worship's centrality in the believer's life?
Word Studies
- Glory: כָּבוֹד (Kavod) H3519 - Glory, weight, honor
Cross-References
- Glory: Psalms 8:1, 57:5
- Parallel theme: Psalms 8:9