Psalm 61

Hear, O God, my cry; pay attention to my prayer.

From the end of the earth I call to you when my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

For you have been a refuge for me, a strong tower against the enemy.

Let me dwell in your tent forever; let me find refuge under the cover of your wings. Selah.

For you, O God, have heard my vows; you have given the heritage of those who fear your name.

Prolong the days of the king; may his years be as many generations.

May he sit enthroned before God forever; appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to guard him.

So I will sing praise to your name forever, to fulfill my vows day after day.

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Notes

Translation notes for Psalm 61.

v02

"From the end of the earth" signifies an expression of extreme distance or distress, emphasizing the psalmist's feeling of being far from God's presence but still calling out to God.

v03

"Refuge" and "strong tower" are metaphors describing God's protection. They evoke images of safety and fortification amidst threats.

v06

"Prolong the days of the king" likely refers to a desire for longevity and continued stability under the king's reign, hinting at a messianic hope extending through the Davidic dynasty.

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Vocabulary

Selected source-language vocabulary for Psalm 61.

v02

אֱלֹהִים (e.lo.him)

Traditionally translated as "God," this plural form carries a sense of majesty and sovereign power. It emphasizes both the nearness and transcendence of God as the psalmist makes his plea.

v03

צוּר (tsur)

Meaning "rock," this term is a common biblical metaphor for stability and security. The plea for guidance to a rock "higher than I" suggests seeking divine protection in a place unattainable by human strength alone.

v08

חֶסֶד (che.sed)

Often translated as "steadfast love" or "lovingkindness," this word denotes a committed love that is reliable and faithful, essential for covenantal relationships.

v08

אֱמֶת (e.met)

Translated "faithfulness" or "truth," it underscores reliability or dependability, together with "chesed" forming a pair that denotes attributes of God’s character, ensuring divine protection.

v01

אֱלֹהִים (elohim)

“God.” The common Hebrew designation for God.

v02

צוּר (tsur)

“Rock.” Is a common biblical metaphor for stability and security. The plea for guidance to a rock "higher than I" suggests seeking divine protection in a place unattainable by human strength alone.

v07

חֶסֶד (chesed)

“Steadfast love; Lovingkindness.” Denotes a committed love that is reliable and faithful, essential for covenantal relationships.

v07

אֱמֶת (emet)

“Faithfulness; Truth; Chesed.” Forming a pair that denotes attributes of God’s character, ensuring divine protection.