Psalms 71:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 71:2
2 Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.
Chapter Context
Psalms 71 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, grace, 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
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 71:2
2 Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.
Analysis
The appeal 'Deliver me in thy righteousness' grounds rescue not in the psalmist's merit but God's character. God's righteousness includes His covenant faithfulness—He must save His people to remain true to His promises. 'Cause me to escape' acknowledges inability to self-rescue. 'Incline thine ear' asks for God's attentive hearing. 'Save me' is direct petition. Each phrase emphasizes dependence on divine initiative and character, not human worthiness or effort.
Historical Context
God's righteousness bound Him to His covenant with Israel. This gave the faithful basis for confident petition—not presuming on grace but trusting God's own character and promises.
Reflection
- How does understanding that God saves according to His righteousness, not your merit, provide assurance?
- What does it mean to ask God to 'incline his ear' to you?
- How can you cultivate humble dependence on God's character rather than confidence in your own righteousness?
Word Studies
- Save: יָשַׁע (Yasha) H3467 - To save, deliver, rescue
Cross-References
- Righteousness: Psalms 31:1, 34:15, 43:1, 143:1, 143:11, Daniel 9:16
- Parallel theme: Psalms 17:2, 17:6, 1 Corinthians 10:13