Psalms 57:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 57:5
5 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 judgment, salvation, mercy. 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 57:5
5 Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth.
Analysis
The refrain 'Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens' shifts focus from David's plight to God's glory. This doxological interruption demonstrates proper theology—God's glory as ultimate reality transcending circumstances. 'Let thy glory be above all the earth' is both prayer and prophetic vision of eschatological consummation when every knee bows (Philippians 2:10-11).
Historical Context
This verse functions as the psalm's center, structurally and theologically. Davidic psalms characteristically move from lament to praise, with the turning point marked by doxology focusing on God's transcendent worthiness regardless of circumstances.
Reflection
- How does focusing on God's exaltation transform your perspective in trials?
- What practical difference does it make that God's glory transcends your circumstances?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Isaiah 37:20
- Glory: Psalms 8:1, 57:11, 72:19, 148:13, Numbers 14:21, Isaiah 6:3
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 2:11