Psalms

Psalms front

Psalms front:intro

Introduction to Psalms

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Psalms

Book One (Psalms 1-41)
Book Two (Psalms 42-72)
Book Three (Psalms 73-89)
Book Four (Psalms 90-106)
Book Five (Psalms 107-150)

What is the Book of Psalms?

The Book of Psalms is a collection of songs. People called psalmists wrote them for different reasons. In some psalms, the psalmists expressed their praise for God. In other psalms, they asked God for help and expressed confidence in his love and power. In others, they confessed their sins and begged for mercy. The Israelites wrote some psalms to ask Yahweh to defeat their enemies. Other psalms celebrated the event of a new king beginning his reign. Psalmists also wrote to praise the city of Jerusalem. They wrote some psalms to instruct people on how to be wise by honoring Yahweh and obeying his law. Also, pilgrims sang some of the psalms while traveling to Jerusalem to worship there. Some psalms became songs of praise in the temple worship of Yahweh.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators can use the traditional title of this book, "The Book of Psalms" or just "Psalms." Another title of this book is "Songs of Praise." Translators may express this meaning in their own languages, or they may choose to use or transliterate the name from another language version if it is well known. For example, the French title "Les Psaumes" might be understood by everyone in a project language, if French is the language of wider communication in the region. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

When was the Book of Psalms written?

The Psalms were written over a long period of time. Moses probably wrote the earliest psalm around 1400 B.C. David and Asaph wrote their psalms between 1020 and 975 B.C. The Korahites may have written their psalms before Jerusalem was destroyed and the Jews were exiled to Babylon in 587 B.C. Psalm 126 appears to come from the period after the exile, which ended in 538 B.C.

What are the Messianic psalms?

Some psalms are called "Messianic psalms." New Testament writers considered these psalms to prophesy about the Messiah, Jesus Christ. They cited Psalms 2, 8, 16, 22, 34, 40, 41, 45, 68, 69, 89, 102, 109, 110, and 118 at least one time each in the New Testament.

What are superscriptions in the Psalms?

Many psalms give some information called superscriptions before the beginning of the psalm. Some of the expressions in the superscriptions are difficult to understand, so modern versions often have different interpretations of them.

Seventy-three psalms are called "A psalm of David." This may mean they were written by King David. Or, it could mean someone wrote them for David or in the style that David used when he composed poetry. The superscriptions of some psalms give the historical situations in which they were written.

Some superscriptions give instructions about how they should be played and sung. They tell which instruments, singers, or melodies that should be used for that psalm. Fifty-five psalms are addressed "to the choirmaster" or "chief musician." The psalmists seem to have meant them to be used in temple worship.

Traditionally, English versions do not give verse numbers to the superscriptions. But many versions in other languages do. Whether or not translators give them verse numbers, they should consider the superscriptions in the Psalms as part of the divinely inspired biblical text.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What are some important ways in which Yahweh is pictured in the Book of Psalms?

The psalmists often pictured Yahweh as:

a king who rules over the nation of Israel and over all the nations
a shepherd who leads the people of Israel and also the individual psalm writers
a "rock," that is, a high rocky mountain on which people can be completely safe from their enemies
a strong warrior who always defeats his enemies.

What is the importance of honor and shame in the Book of Psalms?

When people honor someone, they think well of him and may even admire him. On the other hand, if people shame someone, that person loses honor and is disgraced.

Psalmists often expressed a great desire that Yahweh would be honored by the Israelites and also by the rest of the world.

Also, psalmists often expressed fear that they would be shamed by their enemies. When they felt this way, the psalmists wrote of their trust that Yahweh would not allow this to happen.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Why do the ULB and UDB display the Book of Psalms as poetry, but some modern versions do not?

The psalmists wrote the Psalms as Hebrew poetry. The ULB and UDB set each line farther to the right on the page than regular text is placed to show that the writing is poetry rather than prose.

This style typically uses pairs of poetic lines that relate to each other in different ways. Usually, poetic lines are said to be "parallel" to each other. A line that is indented farther to the right is paired with the line above it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Translators will have to decide whether to present the Psalms as poetry or as prose in their own language. Translators will need to consider whether their language has poetic forms that are suitable for expressing the Psalms.

Why do some versions number the Psalms differently than others?

From ancient times, people have numbered the Psalms in different ways. The Jews numbered the Psalms in Hebrew in one way. When they translated the Psalms into Greek, they numbered them in a different way. As a result, the Hebrew numbering and the Greek numbering of Psalms were both passed down through the centuries. They are both still in use today. Translators will probably want to number the Psalms in the same way that most versions in their own country do.

How should the translator view the terms Selah and Higgaion that occur in various psalms?

"Selah" and "Higgaion" seem to be musical terms inserted as directions for singers and musicians. Scholars do not agree as to their meaning. For this reason, translators may decide to transliterate them or leave them out but not try to translate them.

Psalms 1

Psalms 1:intro-0

Psalm 001 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 1 is usually considered to be a "wisdom psalm," which gives advice to those who hear it read or sung. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Blessed

A main theme in this psalm is what it means to be blessed. Here "blessed" refers to anyone who is well off because of a good relationship to God. The contrasting theme is that there are ungodly people, those who refuse to honor God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]])

# People who opposed Yahweh

There are several words in this psalm for those who oppose God: "the wicked" (those who do evil), "sinners" (those who ignore God's law), and "mockers" (those who mock God and the righteous people). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]])

Psalms 1:1

General Information:

Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

who does not walk in the advice of the wicked

The "advice of the wicked" is spoken of as if it were a path to follow. Alternate translation: "who does not follow the advice of the wicked" or "who does not do what wicked people advise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

stand in the pathway with sinners

Here the word "pathway" represents the way people live. The word "stand" is in parallel with "walk." Alternate translation: "imitate the behavior of sinful people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

or sit in the assembly of mockers

Sitting with people who mock God represents joining people who mock God. Alternate translation: "or join those who mock God" or "or mock God with others who mock him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 1:2

his delight is in the law of Yahweh

The word "delight" is an abstract noun that can be stated as a verb. A person who can "delight ... in the law" is happy because the law is good and because one is obeying it. Alternate translation: "what makes him truly happy is the law of Yahweh" or "what makes him truly happy is to know that he is obeying the law of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Yahweh

This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.

Psalms 1:3

General Information:

This passage introduces an elaborate image in which a righteous person is thought of in terms of a flourishing tree.

He will be like a tree ... fruit in its season

In the Bible, people are often spoken of as trees. People who delight in Yahweh's law can do all God wants them to do just as a tree that is planted by water produces good fruit. Alternate translation: "He will be prosperous like a tree ... fruit in its season" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

planted by the streams of water

A tree that is planted by a stream can get enough water to be healthy.

that produces its fruit in its season

Healthy trees produce good fruit at the right time.

whose leaves do not wither

If a tree gets enough water, its leaves do not dry out and die.

whatever he does will prosper

"He will be successful at whatever he does"

Psalms 1:4

The wicked are not so

How they are not like that can be stated clearly. "The wicked are not prosperous" or "The wicked do not prosper" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

but are instead like the chaff

How they are like chaff can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "but instead they are worthless like the chaff" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 1:5

will not stand in the judgment

Possible meanings are 1) not standing in the judgment is a metonym for being judged by God and having to leave his presence. Alternate translation: "will not continue to stay before God when he judges them" or "will have to leave God's presence when he judges them as guilty" or 2) not standing in the judgment is a metaphor for being condemned in the judgment. "Alternate translation: "will be condemned in the judgment" or "will be condemned when God judges them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the judgment

The noun judgment can be expressed as a verb. This probably refers to the final judgment when God judges all people. Alternate translation: "when God judges everyone"

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous

Translators can supply the verb "stand." Alternate translation: "neither will sinners stand in the assembly of the righteous" or "and sinners will not stand in the assembly of the righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous

Being accepted by God as righteous is spoken of as standing with the group of righteous people. Alternate translation: "and God will not accept sinners along with the righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 1:6

For Yahweh approves of the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish

These two clauses contrast what happens to righteous people with what happens to wicked people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the way of the righteous

How people live is spoken of as if it were a "way" or "road" that they are walking on. Alternate translation: "how the righteous live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the way of the wicked will perish

How people live and what they do is spoken of as if it were a "way" or "road" that they walk on. Possible meanings are 1) the way perishing represents the wicked perishing because of how they live. Alternate translation: "The wicked will die because of how they live" or 2) the way perishing is a metaphor for no longer being able to live the way they do. Alternate translation: "the wicked will no longer be able to live the way they live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 2

Psalms 2:intro-0

Psalm 002 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 2 is usually considered a royal psalm because it is about the king. It was probably first sung when a new person became the king. It is often thought to be about the Messiah because of verse 6 and 7 reference the Son of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sonofgod.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

The main theme of this psalm is that God is protecting and empowering the king he has appointed and that it is useless for the foreign nations to oppose God and his king.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphor

"Today I have begotten you" here is a metaphor meaning that God acknowledges the king as his special person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 2:1

General Information:

Why are the nations in turmoil, and why do the peoples make plots that will fail?

These questions are used to show surprise that the people are doing things that are so wrong and foolish. Alternate translation: "The nations are in turmoil and the peoples are making plots that will fail." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

are the nations in turmoil

This probably means that the nations were making a noisy and angry commotion.

the nations

This represents either the leaders or the people of the nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

plots that will fail

These are probably plots against God and his people.

Psalms 2:2

The kings of the earth take their stand together ... the rulers conspire together

These two clauses have similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

take their stand together ... conspire together

These phrases mean the same thing, implying that the leaders stand together in order to fight against Yahweh and his Messiah. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "gather to fight ... plan together to revolt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 2:3

Let us tear off the shackles ... throw off their chains

The people of other nations speak of Yahweh and the Messiah's rule over them as if it were shackles and chains. Alternate translation: "We should free ourselves from their control; we should not let them rule over us any longer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 2:4

He ... the Lord

These phrases refer to Yahweh. Yahweh is often called "the Lord" but the words for "Yahweh" and "the Lord" are different.

sits in the heavens

Here sitting represents ruling. What he sits on can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "rules in the heavens" or "sits on his throne in heaven" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the Lord mocks them

"the Lord mocks those people." Why he mocks them can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "The Lord mocks them for their foolish plans" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 2:5

terrify them in his rage

The abstract noun "rage" can be stated as "furious." Alternate translation: "he will be furious and terrify them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

terrify

greatly frighten

Psalms 2:6

I myself

Yahweh is emphasizing that he, and not someone else, has anointed his king.

anointed my king

"appointed my king to rule"

Psalms 2:7

I will announce a decree of Yahweh. He

The person saying this is the king. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "The king says, 'I will announce a decree of Yahweh.' He" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

He said to me

"Yahweh said to me"

You are my son! This day I have become your father

Among many peoples in that part of the world then, men could decide to legally adopt children, who would become their heirs. Here Yahweh adopts a man and makes him king of Israel. Alternate translation: "I make you my son. This day I have become your father" or "Now you are my son and am your father"

Psalms 2:8

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues speaking to the new king of Israel.

the nations for your inheritance ... the ends of the earth for your possession

These phrases express very similar ideas. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the ends of the earth

"the lands that are very far away"

Psalms 2:9

You will break them with an iron rod; like a jar of a potter, you will smash them to pieces

These phrases express very similar ideas. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

You will break them with an iron rod

Defeating the nations is spoken of as breaking them, and his power is spoken of as an iron rod. Alternate translation: "You will defeat them completely by your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will smash them to pieces

Destroying nations is spoken of as if they could be smashed like a clay jar. Alternate translation: you will completely destroy them like a clay pot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

a jar of a potter

A potter is a person who makes clay pots and jars. These are fragile and can be broken easily. Alternate translation: "a clay jar" or "a clay pot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Psalms 2:10

So now, you kings, be warned; be corrected, you rulers of the earth

These two phrases have similar meanings. Alternate translation: "So now, you kings and rulers of the earth, be warned and corrected" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

be warned

This can be stated with an active form. Alternate translation: "listen to this warning" or "be wise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

be corrected

This can be stated with an active form. Alternate translation: "listen to this correction" or "take this correction" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 2:11

General Information:

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Psalms 2:12

Kiss the son

People would show their king that they were loyal to him by kissing him, perhaps on the feet. Alternate translation: "Show the son that you are truly loyal to him" or "Bow down humbly before his son" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

you will die in the way

This may refer to dying right there, before the person has a chance to go away. Alternate translation: "you will die immediately"

when his anger burns for just a moment

The king's anger is spoken of as if it were a fire that could burn. Alternate translation: "when he suddenly becomes very angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

seek refuge in him

Asking the king for protection is spoken of as seeking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "ask the king to protect them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 3

Psalms 3:intro-0

Psalm 003 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 3 is a psalm of deliverance. It is a morning song intended to be sung in the temple accompanied by musical instruments during morning worship. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

Although the psalmist has many enemies and is saying he is without help, God is protecting him and delivering him from danger.

Psalms 3:1

General Information:

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

Yahweh, how many are my enemies!

This exclamation shows that David is afraid of his enemies. Alternate translation: "Oh Yahweh, I have so many enemies!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

have risen against me

Fighting against someone is spoken of as rising against him. Alternate translation: "come against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 3:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 3:3

you, Yahweh, are a shield around me

A shield protects a soldier. David speaks as if God were a shield protecting him. Alternate translation: "you, Yahweh, protect me like a shield" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my glory

"you are my glory." By calling God his glory, David says that God is the one who gives him glory. Since David has just spoken about his enemies and God being his protector, he probably meant that God gives him glory by giving him victory over his enemies. Alternate translation: "you are the one who gives me glory" or "you are the one who gives me victory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the one who lifts up my head

"you are the one who lifts up my head." Giving someone courage is spoken of as lifting up his head. Alternate translation: "the one who encourages me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 3:4

I lift up my voice

Using one's voice to cry out is spoken as as lifting up his voice. Alternate translation: "I cry out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 3:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 3:6

have set themselves against me on every side

"have surrounded me to destroy me"

Psalms 3:7

Rise up

David speaks of starting to do something as getting up. Alternate translation: "Take action" or "Do something" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

hit all my enemies ... break the teeth of the wicked

These phrases say very similar things. The phrases "my enemies" and "the wicked" refer to the same group of people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For you will hit all my enemies on the jaw

This was a way of insulting people. David speaks as if Yahweh would come and physically hit his enemies. Alternate translation: "For you will insult all my enemies like someone hitting them on the jaw" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will break the teeth of the wicked

Animals attack with their teeth. Breaking their teeth takes away their power to attack. David speaks as if Yahweh would come and physically fight against the wicked. Alternate translation: "you will make the wicked unable to harm me like someone breaking the teeth of a ferocious animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 3:8

Salvation comes from Yahweh

The abstract noun "salvation" can be expressed with the verb "save." Alternate translation: "Yahweh saves his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 4

Psalms 4:intro-0

Psalm 004 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 4 is a psalm of deliverance. It is an evening song, intended to be sung in the temple accompanied by musical instruments during evening worship. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

God protects all those who truly trust in him for protection. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Psalms 4:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

on stringed instruments

"people should play stringed instruments with this song"

Answer me when I call

"Respond to me when I call" or "Help me when I call"

God of my righteousness

"God, who shows that I am righteous"

give me room when I am hemmed in

Being in danger is spoken of as being in a narrow space. Alternate translation: "rescue me when I am in danger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 4:2

General Information:

David sings this part of the song as if he is speaking to his enemies.

You people, how long will you turn my honor into shame?

David uses this question to rebuke his enemies. Alternate translation: "You people continually turn my honor into shame!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

turn my honor into shame

Shaming him instead of honoring him is spoken of as making his honor become shame. Alternate translation: "shame me instead of honoring me" or "bring me shame when you should be honoring me"

How long will you love that which is worthless and seek after lies?

David uses this question to rebuke his enemies. Alternate translation: "You continue to love things that are worthless and seek after lies." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

love that which is worthless ... seek after lies

These two phrases are very similar in meaning. The lies are worthless. Alternate translation: "love worthless lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 4:3

Yahweh has set apart the faithful ones for himself

"Yahweh chooses godly people for himself"

Psalms 4:4

Tremble in fear

The relationship between "tremble" and "fear" and who people should fear can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "Fear Yahweh so much that you tremble" or "Stand in awe of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Tremble

shake from fear

Meditate in your heart

The heart represents a person's thoughts. Thinking carefully is spoken of as meditating in one's heart. Alternate translation: "Think carefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 4:5

Offer the sacrifices of righteousness

"Offer the right sacrifices"

put your trust in Yahweh

Here "trust" is spoken of as if it were an object that could be put somewhere. The abstract noun "trust" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "trust in Yahweh" or "trust Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 4:6

Who will show us anything good?

This question is used either to ask for something or to express a wish about something that has not happened. Alternate translation: "Please show us something good!" or "We wish someone would show us something good!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Who will show us anything good?

Possible meanings are 1) showing something good represents bringing good things. Alternate translation: "Who will bring good things to us?" or 2) showing something good represents saying that good things have happened. Alternate translation: "Who will say that anything good has happened?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

lift up the light of your face on us

The writer speaks of Yahweh acting favorably towards them as if Yahweh's face shone a light on them. Alternate translation: "act favorably towards us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 4:7

You have given my heart more gladness

The heart represents the person. Alternate translation: "You have given me more gladness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

You have given my heart more gladness than others have

Here "gladness" is spoken of as if it is an object that can be given. The abstract noun "gladness" can be stated as "glad." Alternate translation: "You have made me more glad than others are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

when their grain and new wine abound

"New wine" may represent grapes. Alternate translation: "when they reap plentiful harvests of grain and grapes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 4:8

It is in peace that I will lie down and sleep

Peace is spoken of as if it were a place. This can be restated to remove the abstract noun "peace." Alternate translation: "I will be peaceful when I lie down and sleep" or "I will not be afraid of danger when I lie down and sleep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

make me safe and secure

The words "safe" and "secure" mean basically the same thing and emphasize complete safety. Alternate translation: "make me completely safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 5

Psalms 5:intro-0

Psalm 005 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 5 is a psalm of deliverance. Notice how the psalmist both praises God and asks him for help in defeating the wicked. It was intended to be sung accompanied by flutes. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

God does not help people who do evil but he blesses those who are good and trust in him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Psalms 5:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

with wind instruments

"This song should be accompanied by people who play wind instruments."

Listen to my call to you

This is a call for help. Alternate translation: "Listen to me as I call to you for help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

groanings

low sounds that people make with the voice when they are suffering

Psalms 5:2

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Psalms 5:3

in the morning you hear my cry ... in the morning I will bring my petition to you

These two phrases are very similar in meaning. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I will bring my petition to you

"I will make my request" or "I will ask you for what I need"

wait expectantly

"wait, expecting you to do what I ask you to do"

Psalms 5:4

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Psalms 5:5

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Psalms 5:6

Yahweh despises violent and deceitful men

Since David is speaking to God in this psalm, this sentence can be stated with the word "you." Alternate translation: "Yahweh, you despise violent and deceitful men" or "Yahweh, you hate men who do violent acts and deceive others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 5:7

because of your great covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your house

This refers to God's temple. Alternate translation: "your temple"

Psalms 5:8

lead me in your righteousness

David speaks of righteousness as if it were a path and of teaching as leading. The phrase "your righteousness" means that God is righteous Alternate translation: "teach me to do what is righteous as you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

make your path straight before me

David speaks of righteousness as if it were a path. A straight path is easy to see or walk on. Alternate translation: "show me clearly how to live in the right way" or "make it easy for me to do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 5:9

General Information:

David talks about his enemies.

For there is no truth in their mouth

Truth being in the mouth represents speaking truthfully. Alternate translation: "For they never say what is true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

their inward being is wicked

The inward being represents people's thoughts and desires. Alternate translation: "their thoughts and desires are wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

their throat

The throat represents people's speech. Alternate translation: "their speech" or "what they say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

their throat is an open tomb

Their throat is spoken of as if it were an open tomb, ready for dead bodies to put into it. Possible meanings are 1) "they say that they will kill people" or 2) "What they say kills people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they flatter with their tongue

"they say nice things about people without really meaning it"

their tongue

The tongue represents what people say. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 5:10

may their schemes be their downfall

"may their schemes cause them to experience disasters" or "may they become less important because of their schemes"

schemes

plans to harm people

downfall

This is something that causes a person to experience disasters or to lose power. Experiencing disaster or becoming less important is spoken of as falling. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 5:11

may all those who take refuge in you rejoice

God is spoken of as if he were a refuge, a place where people can be protected. Alternate translation: "May all those who go to you for protection rejoice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who take refuge in you rejoice ... shout for joy because you defend them

These two clauses express similar thoughts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

take refuge in you

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "go to you for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who love your name

God's name represents him. Alternate translation: "those who love you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 5:12

you will surround them with favor as with a shield

God's favor is spoken of as if it were a shield. Alternate translation: "you will favor them and protect them as a soldier protects himself with his shield" or "because you are kind to them, you will protect them (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 6

Psalms 6:intro-0

Psalm 006 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 6 is a deliverance psalm: a call to God for help. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trouble

He is in deep trouble and needs God to help him in his difficult situation. But then God hears his prayer and scatters his enemies.

# First Person

This psalm is written using first person making its perspective very personal. There are many uses of the first person in this Psalm.

Psalms 6:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

on stringed instruments

"people should play stringed instruments with this song"

set to the Sheminith style

This may refer to a style of music.

Psalms 6:2

my bones are shaking

The bones represent the whole body. His body may have been shaking because he was sick or extremely tired. Alternate translation: "my whole body is shaking" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 6:3

very troubled

"terrified" or "worried"

how long will this continue?

David uses this question to show that he does not want to continue feeling weak and troubled. Alternate translation: please, do not let this continue!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 6:4

Return, Yahweh

David speaks of God being kind to him as God returning to him. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, come back to me" or "Have mercy on me, Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Save me because of your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Save me because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 6:5

For in death there is no remembrance of you. In Sheol who will give you thanks?

These two sentences express similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For in death there is no remembrance of you

The abstract noun "remembrance" represents praise. Alternate translation: "For when people die, they no longer praise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

In Sheol who will give you thanks?

David uses this question to emphasize that no one in Sheol thanks God. Alternate translation: "No one in Sheol will give you thanks!" or "The dead cannot praise you!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 6:6

I am weary with my groaning

His groaning represents the pain or distress that he feels. Alternate translation: "I am very tired because of my pain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I drench my bed with tears; I wash my couch away with my tears

These two sentences express the same meaning. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I drench my bed with tears

"I make my bed wet with my tears" or "My bed is very wet because of my tears"

I wash my couch away with my tears

"I make my couch wet with my tears"

Psalms 6:7

My eyes grow dim

The ability to see is spoken of in terms of the eyes. Alternate translation: "My vision is blurry" or "I cannot see clearly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from grief

Grief here represents crying. Alternate translation: "from crying" or "because I cry so much" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 6:8

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Psalms 6:9

Yahweh has heard my appeal for mercy ... Yahweh has accepted my prayer

These two lines have very similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Yahweh has accepted my prayer

Being willing to do what David has prayed for is spoken of as accepting his prayer. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will respond to my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 6:10

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Psalms 7

Psalms 7:intro-0

Psalm 007 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 7 is a deliverance psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

The author had not wronged anyone, yet his enemy was trying to attack him. But he knew that God would protect him.

# Cush the Benjamite

Note the superscription and the specific circumstances. There is no other reference to this incident in the Scriptures. But there are references to David being opposed by those of the tribe of Benjamin during the time he was serving King Saul.

Psalms 7:1

General Information:

A musical composition of David

"This is a song that David wrote"

take refuge in you!

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "go to you for protection!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 7:2

they will rip me apart like a lion, tearing me in pieces

David speaks of his enemies attacking him as if they would rip his body apart and tear it in pieces as a lion would. Alternate translation: "they will violently kill me like a lion ripping apart its victim's body and tearing it in pieces" or "they will violently kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

with no one else able to bring me to safety

"and no one else will be able to save me"

Psalms 7:3

General Information:

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Psalms 7:4

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Psalms 7:5

my life

The life represents the person. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

overtake me

This represents capturing him. Alternate translation: "capture me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

let him trample my life to the ground

Here "my life" represents the writer. Alternate translation: "allow him to destroy me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

lay my honor in the dust

This refers to lying dead and unburied in disgrace.

Psalms 7:6

Arise, Yahweh, in your anger

Arising represents doing something or taking action. Alternate translation: "Do something in your anger" or "Be angry at my enemies and take action: (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

stand up against the rage of my enemies

Fighting against people is spoken of as standing up against them. Alternate translation: "fight against the rage of my enemies" or "attack my enemies who rage against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the rage of my enemies

Their rage represents their attacks. Alternate translation: "the attacks of my enemies" or "my enemies who attack me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

wake up

Waking up represents starting to do something or take action. Alternate translation: "Take action" or "Do something" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for my sake

"for me" or "to help me"

Psalms 7:7

The countries are assembled

Here the word "countries" represents all of the armies that have gathered to attack. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

take once more your rightful place over them

Ruling people is spoken of as being over them. Yahweh's rightful place refers either to heaven or to ruling in general. Alternate translation: "Rule over them from heaven" or "Rule over them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 7:8

vindicate me

"show them that I am not guilty"

Psalms 7:9

establish the righteous people

"make the righteous people strong" or "make the righteous people prosper"

you who examine hearts and minds

The hearts and minds represent people's desires and thoughts. Alternate translation: "you who know our inner thoughts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 7:10

My shield comes from God

The word "shield" represents God's protection. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 7:11

a God who is indignant each day

Who God is angry with can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "a God who is angry with the wicked every day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 7:12

God will sharpen his sword and will prepare his bow for battle

In verses 12 and 13, David speaks of God deciding to punish the wicked as if God were a warrior preparing to fight against them with weapons. Alternate translation: "God will take action against him like a warrior who sharpens his sword and prepares his bow for battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 7:13

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Psalms 7:14

one who is pregnant with wickedness ... conceives destructive plans ... gives birth to harmful lies

David speaks of the things that a wicked person does as if the person were pregnant and wickedness was the baby. Alternate translation: "the wicked person. He makes plans to destroy people and produces harmful lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 7:15

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Psalms 7:16

His own destructive plans return to his own head, for his violence comes down on his own head

Destruction and violence are spoken of as if they hit a person's head or fall down on it. Alternate translation: "His own destructive plans destroy him, for his violence attacks him" or "When he plans to destroy others, others destroy him; when he attacks others, others attack him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 7:17

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Psalms 8

Psalms 8:intro-0

Psalm 008 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 8 is a psalm of worship and praise to God. This was to be sung by a choir.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's creation

God has made awesome things in the universe and has exalted humans to be rulers over this creation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/exalt.md]])

# A Little Lower than the Heavenly Beings

Psalms Psalm 8:4-6 is quoted in Hebrews 2:6-8, where it is applied to Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/heaven.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/glory.md]])

Psalms 8:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to the Gittith style

This may refer to a style of music.

how magnificent is your name in all the earth

God's "name" represents his whole being. Alternate translation: "people all over the world know that you are very great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 8:2

Out of the mouth of babies and infants you have established praise

Possible meanings are 1) praise is spoken of as a solid object that God takes out of babies' mouths and sets up as a defensive wall or 2) God has created the world so that true praise comes to him from babies. Alternate translation: "You have given babies and infants the ability to praise you" or "It is babies and infants who truly praise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 8:3

your heavens, which your fingers have made

God's fingers represent him. Alternate translation: "the heavens which you have made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 8:4

Of what importance is the human race that you notice them, or mankind that you pay attention to them?

These remarks have been expressed in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: "It is amazing that you think about people and are concerned about them!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the human race ... mankind

Both of these phrases refer to people in general.

Psalms 8:5

have crowned them with glory and honor

Glory and honor are spoken of as if they were crowns. The words "glory" and "honor" are similar in meaning. Alternate translation: "have given them glory and honor" or "have caused them to be like kings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 8:6

You make him to rule over the works ... you have put all things under his feet

These two clauses express similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

You make him ... under his feet

"you make them ... under their feet." The words "him" and "his" here refer to people.

the works of your hands

The hands represent what God has done. Alternate translation: "the things that you made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you have put all things under his feet

Having authority to rule others or control things is spoken of as having them under one's feet. This means God gave people authority over all that he created. Alternate translation: "you have given him authority over all things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 8:7

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Psalms 8:8

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Psalms 8:9

how magnificent is your name in all the earth

With this exclamation, David shows his joy and awe about how great God is. Alternate translation: "your name is wonderfully magnificent in all the earth" or "people in all the earth know how magnificent you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

your name

God's "name" represents him or his reputation. Alternate translation: "your reputation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

magnificent

excellent, great

Psalms 9

Psalms 9:intro-0

Psalm 009 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 9 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

God is a protector. He is all-powerful and his enemies cannot withstand him.

# Acrostic Psalm

This psalm along with Psalm 10 form an acrostic. Which means that each unit begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet.

# One Psalm or two

This psalm has a superscription but Psalm 10 doesn't. This fact and the acrostic nature of the two psalms has lead some scholars to believe these two psalms may have originally been written as one psalm.

Psalms 9:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Muth Labben

This may refer to a style of music.

I will give thanks to Yahweh with my whole heart

Since this song is addressed to Yahweh, Yahweh can be referred to as "you." Alternate translation: "Yahweh, I will give thanks to you with all my heart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

all your marvelous deeds

The noun "deeds" can be expressed with the verb "do." Alternate translation: "all the marvelous things you do" or "all the marvelous things you have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 9:2

I will sing praise to your name

Here God's name represents God. Alternate translation: "I will sing praise to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 9:3

turn back

"retreat" or "flee in fear"

Psalms 9:4

you sit on your throne, a righteous judge

Kings had authority to judge people, and they would sit on their throne when they judged. David speaks as if God were an earthly king. Alternate translation: "you judge like a king who sits on his throne, and you are righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 9:5

you have blotted out their name forever and ever

Causing people to be forgotten is spoken of as blotting out their name. Alternate translation: "you have caused them to be forgotten as if their name was blotted out" or "no one will ever remember them again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

blotted out

"erased"

Psalms 9:6

The enemy crumbled like ruins

The enemy is spoken of as if it were a city full of broken down buildings. Alternate translation: "Our enemies were destroyed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

when you overthrew their cities

"when you destroyed their cities"

All remembrance of them has perished

Here "remembrance" is spoken of as if it were a living being that could die. Alternate translation: "All remembrance of them has stopped" or "There is no longer any remembrance of them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

All remembrance of them has perished

The abstract noun "remembrance" can be expressed with the verb "remember." Alternate translation: "No one remembers them at all" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 9:7

Yahweh remains forever

"Remain" probably represents sitting on the throne as king. Alternate translation: "Yahweh sits on his throne forever" or "Yahweh rules forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he has established his throne for justice

The phrase "his throne" represents God's rule. Possible meanings are 1) "He rules in order to judge people" or "He rules over people justly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 9:8

He will judge the world with righteousness ... he will execute judgment for the nations with fairness

These two clauses express the same meaning. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

He will judge the world with righteousness

Here "the world" refers to all the people in the world. Alternate translation: "He will judge all the people of the world righteously" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 9:9

Yahweh also will be a stronghold for the oppressed

God is spoken of as if he were a place that people could go to for safety. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will also protect the oppressed" or "Yahweh will also provide safety for those who are oppressed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 9:10

Those who know your name

Here the words "your name" represent God. Alternate translation: "Those who know you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

do not abandon

"do not forsake" or "do not leave"

Psalms 9:11

who rules in Zion

"who lives in Jerusalem"

tell the nations

Here "the nations" represents the people of the nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 9:12

For the God who avenges bloodshed remembers

What he remembers can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "For the God who avenges bloodshed remembers those who were killed" or "For God remembers those who were killed and he punishes the killers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

he does not forget the cry

"He does not ignore the cry"

Psalms 9:13

see how I am oppressed by those who hate me

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: "see how those who hate me oppress me" or "see how badly my enemies treat me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you who can snatch me from the gates of death

Death is spoken of as if it were a city that had gates through which people enter it. If someone is near the gates of death, it means that he will die soon. Keeping someone from dying is spoken of as taking him away from the gates of that city. Alternate translation: "you who can rescue me from death" or "you who can keep me from dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 9:14

General Information:

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Psalms 9:15

The nations have sunk down into the pit that they made

People dig pits so they can catch animals that fall into them. Here digging a pit represents making plans to destroy people. Alternate translation: "The nations are like people who dig a pit for others and then fall into it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their feet are caught in the net that they hid

People hide nets so they can catch animals that get caught in them. Here hiding a net represents making plans to destroy people. Alternate translation: "they are like people who hide a net and get trapped in it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 9:16

the wicked is ensnared by his own actions

Here "wicked" is a nominal adjective that refers to any wicked person. A wicked person acting to harm other people is spoken of as if the wicked person had made a trap and then fallen into it and been unable to escape. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when a wicked person tries to harm other people, his actions will end up harming him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

is ensnared

"is trapped"

Psalms 9:17

turned back

"rejected"

all the nations that forget God

This refers to "the wicked."

Psalms 9:18

For the needy will not always be forgotten

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will not always forget the needy" or "God will remember the needy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

nor will the hope of the oppressed be forever dashed

Hopes are spoken of as if they were objects that could be broken or destroyed. Hopes being destroyed represents the things that people hope for never happening. Alternate translation: "and the oppressed will not hope forever without results" or "and someday what the oppressed hope for will happen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 9:19

Arise

Getting up represents starting to do something. Alternate translation: "Do something" or "Take action" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

man

people

be judged

Here judging represents punishing. Alternate translation: "be punished" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in your sight

Here sight represents presence. Alternate translation: "in your presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

may the nations be judged in your sight

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "judge the nations in your presence" or "take the nations into your presence and punish them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 9:20

General Information:

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Psalms 10

Psalms 10:intro-0

Psalm 010 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 10 is a psalm of deliverance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Evil people

The wicked people are prospering and think that God does not care. They think that he is not involved in these affairs. They destroy the innocent. The godly need God to come to their rescue and to punish the wicked people for the evil that they are doing to the good people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/innocent.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]])

# Second half of Psalm 9

As noted in the intro to the last psalm, this one is part of an acrostic poem. This psalm covers the last half on the Hebrew alphabet. It also does not have a superscription to introduce it. However, the psalms do separate well on the subjects they address. One addresses thanksgiving and praise whereas Psalm 10 is a lament. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lament.md]])

Psalms 10:1

General Information:

Why, Yahweh, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?

The speaker uses these questions to express his distress that God has not helped him. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, it seems as though you are far away from me and you hide from me whenever I am in trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 10:2

schemes

evil plans

Psalms 10:3

the wicked person

This refers to wicked people in general. Alternate translation: "wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

his deepest desires

The noun "desires" can be expressed with the verb "want. "Alternate translation: "the things that he wants very much to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the greedy

"greedy people"

Psalms 10:4

The wicked man

This refers here to wicked people in general. Alternate translation: "the wicked person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

has a raised face

A raised face represents pride or arrogance. Alternate translation: "has an arrogant attitude" or "is proud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he does not seek God

Seeking God represents either 1) asking God for help or 2) thinking about God and obeying him. Alternate translation: "he does not ask God for help" or "he does not think about God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 10:5

He is secure at all times

"He is safe at all times." He is not really safe, but he thinks that he is.

your righteous decrees are too high for him

Something that is hard to understand is spoken of as if it were too high to reach. Alternate translation: "he cannot understand your righteous decrees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he snorts at all his enemies

People snort at their enemies when they think that their enemies are weak and worthless. Alternate translation: "he thinks that all his enemies are weak and worthless" or "he sneers at all his enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

he snorts

This means that he blows air out noisily through his nose.

Psalms 10:6

He says

"The wicked man says"

throughout all generations

This probably simply means "forever."

I will not meet adversity

Experiencing adversity is spoken of as meeting it. Alternate translation: "I will not have any troubles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 10:7

His mouth is full of curses and lies and oppression

What people say is spoken of as being in their mouth. Alternate translation: "He always curses people, tells lies, and threatens to harm people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

under his tongue are mischief and evil

Here the tongue represents speaking. Alternate translation: or "what he says injures and destroys people" or "he speaks words that threaten and hurt people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 10:8

He waits in ambush

The word "he" refers to the wicked man.

his eyes look for some helpless victim

The eyes represent him. Alternate translation: "he looks for some helpless victim" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 10:9

He lurks in secret like a lion in the thicket

This speaks of the wicked person as if he were a lion. Alternate translation: "He hides while he waits for the weak to walk near him, the same way a lion quietly waits in the bush for the animal it wants to attack" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

lurks

This means to hide or wait with intent to harm or kill.

he lies in wait

"lies down waiting" or "he hides and waits"

He catches the oppressed when he pulls in his net

The writer speaks of the wicked person catching people as if he were a hunter using a net to catch animals. Alternate translation: "He catches the oppressed like a hunter that catches an animal in a net and drags it away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 10:10

they fall into his strong nets

The writer continues to speak of the wicked person catching people as if he were a hunter, his plans were nets, and the people were animals that fall into his net. Alternate translation: "his victims are caught by his plans like animals that fall into a hunter's strong nets" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 10:11

He says

The word "He" refers to the wicked person, and to wicked people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

God has forgotten

Refusing to pay attention to what people do is spoken of as forgetting. Alternate translation: "God does not pay attention" or "God does not care about what I do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he covers his face

Refusing to pay attention to what someone does is spoken of as covering one's face. Alternate translation: "God refuses to see what is happening" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will not bother to look

Paying attention to what someone does is spoken of as looking at it. Alternate translation: "he will not bother to pay attention" or "he will not care" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 10:12

Arise

Starting to do something is spoken of as getting up. Alternate translation: "Do something" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Lift up your hand

Here lifting the hand to hit someone represents punishing him. Alternate translation: "Hit him hard" or "Punish the wicked person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 10:13

Why does the wicked man reject God and say ... "You will not hold me accountable"?

The speaker uses this question to show that he is very sad that wicked people do these things. Alternate translation: "Wicked people are always rejecting God and saying ... 'You will not hold me accountable.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

You will not hold me accountable

"You will not require me to tell you why I do what I do." Holding someone accountable here represents punishing him. Alternate translation: "You will not punish me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 10:14

General Information:

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Psalms 10:15

Break the arm of the wicked and evil man

Here "arm" represents power. Alternate translation: "Destroy the power of the wicked and evil man" or "Make the wicked and evil man weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

wicked and evil

These words have the same meaning. You can use one word to express both concepts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Make him account for his evil deeds

Making someone account for his evil deeds represents punishing him. Alternate translation: "Punish him for the evil things he has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 10:16

the nations are driven out of his land

This can be stated in active form. "Yahweh forces the people of other nations to leave his land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 10:17

you have heard the needs of the oppressed

It is implied that the oppressed people cried out to God. Alternate translation: "when oppressed people cried out to you, you listened to them tell you what they need" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

you strengthen their heart

A strong heart represents courage, and making people's hearts strong represents encouraging them. Alternate translation: "you encourage them" or "you make them confident" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 10:18

no man ... will cause terror again

"no one ... will cause people to be afraid again"

Psalms 11

Psalms 11:intro-0

Psalm 011 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 11 is a worship psalm. It tells how great God is and that God delivers the good people from the evil people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Justice

The wicked people try to destroy the good people but God knows everything that is being done and he saves the good people and destroys the evil people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 11:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

take refuge in Yahweh

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "go to Yahweh for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

how will you say to me, "Flee like a bird to the mountain"?

This question is asked to provide emphasis. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "So do not ask me to run away!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 11:2

For see! The wicked prepare their bows. They make ready their arrows on the strings to shoot in the darkness at the upright in heart

"Look! the wicked are preparing to attack upright people"

upright in heart

Here "upright in heart" refers to godly or righteous people.

Psalms 11:3

For if the foundations are ruined, what can the righteous do?

Here "the foundations" may refer to law and order. This rhetorical question is asked to add emphasis. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Righteous people cannot do anything when evil people are not punished when they disobey the laws!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 11:4

his eyes watch, his eyes examine the children of mankind

Here Yahweh is represented by his "eyes." Yahweh is aware of everything that happens. Alternate translation: "He examines all that humanity does" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

children of mankind

"humanity"

Psalms 11:5

Yahweh examines

"Yahweh watches carefully"

do violence

"hurt others"

Psalms 11:6

He rains burning coals and brimstone upon the wicked; a scorching wind will be their portion from his cup!

God's punishment is described as if it were burning coals and brimstone from a volcano. Alternate translation: "He punishes the wicked; there will be no relief for them!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

brimstone

sulphur

Psalms 11:7

see his face

"be in his presence"

Psalms 12

Psalms 12:intro-0

Psalm 012 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 12 is a judgment psalm, where the author asks God to judge and punish the wicked people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh saves

There are so many wicked people now and they are proud of their evil. But God will save the poor who call out to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/call.md]])

# Words

This relatively short psalm focuses on the words people use.

Psalms 12:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to the Sheminith

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 6:1.

Help, Yahweh

"Yahweh, come to my aid"

those who have integrity have vanished

"faithful people have all vanished"

Psalms 12:2

Everyone says ... everyone speaks

The two occurrences of "everyone" are exaggerations, used to emphasize that this is true of very many people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

everyone speaks with flattering lips and a double heart

Here "lips" is a metonym for what people say, and "a double heart" is a metaphor for deception. Alternate translation: "everyone speaks with flattering words and deception" or "everyone praises people falsely and tells lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 12:3

cut off all flattering lips

Here "flattering lips" is a metonym for people who flatter others. Possible meanings are 1) "cut off" is a metaphor for killing. Alternate translation: "kill all who flatter others" or 2) "cut off" is a metaphor for stopping something. Alternate translation: "stop all those who flatter others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

every tongue declaring great things

Here "every tongue" represents every person who declares great things. Alternate translation: "every person who boasts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 12:4

With our tongues we will prevail

Here the word "tongues" represents what people say. Alternate translation: "We will prevail because of what we say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

we will prevail

"we will succeed" or "we will win" or "we will be victorious"

When our lips speak

Here the "lips" represents the people who speak. Alternate translation: "When we speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

who can be master over us?

This rhetorical question is asked to emphasize that they believed no one could rule over them. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "no one can rule over us!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 12:5

groans

These are deep sounds that people make because of pain or some strong emotion.

I will arise," says Yahweh

This means Yahweh will do something to help the people.

Psalms 12:6

like silver purified in a furnace on the earth, refined seven times

Yahweh's words are compared to silver that has been purified. Alternate translation: "they are without any imperfection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 12:7

You keep them

"You keep the righteous people safe"

Psalms 12:8

walk on every side

"surround us"

when evil is exalted among the children of mankind

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when people everywhere are praising evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

children of mankind

"human beings" or "people"

Psalms 13

Psalms 13:intro-0

Psalm 013 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 13 is a psalm of deliverance because the psalmist is calling on God to deliver him from death and his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/call.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

The author needs God to help him because his enemies will rejoice if they are able to defeat him. The string of rhetorical questions is very effective at heightening the fear David is feeling. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fear.md]])

Psalms 13:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

How long, Yahweh, will you keep forgetting about me?

This question is asked to get the reader's attention and to add emphasis. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, it seems that you have forgotten about me!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

How long ... face from me?

The words "your face" represent God's whole being. This rhetorical question is asked to add emphasis. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "It seems like you are hiding from me!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 13:2

How long will my enemy triumph over me?

This rhetorical question is asked to add emphasis. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Surely my enemies will not always defeat me!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 13:3

Look at me and answer me

"Give me your attention and listen to me"

Give light to my eyes

This is a way of asking for strength. Alternate translation: "Make me strong again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

or I will sleep in death

To "sleep in death" means to die. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 13:4

Do not let my enemy say ... so that my enemy may not say

"Do not let my enemy say about me ... so that my enemy may not say about me"

when I am brought down

"when I fall" or "when they defeat me"

Psalms 13:5

I have trusted in your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "I have trusted that you are faithful to your covenant" or "I have trusted you because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my heart rejoices in your salvation

Here "my heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will rejoice because you have rescued me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 13:6

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 14

Psalms 14:intro-0

Psalm 014 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 14 is a deliverance psalm because he is trusting God to deliver the poor. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Evil people

Wicked people do not even consider God when they make their plans. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Psalms 14:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

A fool says in his heart

This is an idiom that means to say to oneself or to think to oneself. Alternate translation: "A foolish person says to himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

They are corrupt

The word "they" refers to all foolish human beings who say there is no God.

Psalms 14:2

children of mankind

This phrase refers to all humans.

who seek after him

This describes those who desire to know God as if they were actually following him on a path. Alternate translation: "who desire to know him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 14:3

They have all turned away

This describes people who have rejected God as if they had stopped walking on the right path and had gone in another direction. Alternate translation: "They have all turned away from Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 14:4

Do they not know anything ... who do not call on Yahweh?

This rhetorical question is asked to add emphasis. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "They act as if they do not know anything ... who do not call on Yahweh. But they know what they are doing!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

those who commit iniquity

The abstract nouns "iniquity" can be stated as "evil deeds." Alternate translation: "those who do evil deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

those who eat up my people

This refers to those who do evil things and destroy God's people as if they were eating food. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 14:5

They tremble

The word "they" refers to those who do evil things.

God is with the righteous assembly

To say that "God is with" those who are righteous means that he helps them. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: "God helps those who act righteously" or "God helps those who do the right things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 14:6

You want

The word "you" here refers to the wicked people.

to humiliate the poor person

"to make the person who is poor feel ashamed"

Yahweh is his refuge

This speaks of the protection that Yahweh provides as if he were a shelter that one might seek in a storm. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is like a shelter of protection to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 14:7

Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion!

This is an exclamation. The writer is saying what he wishes or longs for God to do. Alternate translation: "I wish so much that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion!

Here "the salvation of Israel" is a metonym for Yahweh, the one who saves Israel. Alternate translation: "Oh, that Yahweh would come from Zion and save Israel!" or "I wish that Yahweh would come from Zion and rescue his people Israel!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

then Jacob will rejoice and Israel will be glad

These two phrases mean the same thing. Here both "Jacob" and "Israel" represent the people of Israel. The two phrases can be combined in the translation. Alternate translation: "then all the people of Israel will rejoice greatly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 15

Psalms 15:intro-0

Psalm 015 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 15 is a wisdom psalm telling how people who honor God should live. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/life.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Godliness

This psalm outlines a person who is godly and sees others from a godly perspective. There are several good actions mentioned. Such a person treats his neighbor right, does not slander him, does not take a bribe or interest from him, and keeps his promises even when it is difficult to do so. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promise.md]])

# Moral Conditions for Worship

Scholars have noted that this psalm contains a list of ten different conditions for those who want to participate in worship at the temple. The list consists of three positives in verse 2, 3 negatives in verse 3, two positives in verse 4, followed by two negatives in verse 5. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]])

Psalms 15:1

General Information:

Who may live on your holy hill?

God's "holy hill" represents God's temple, which was on Mount Zion. Alternate translation: "Who may live in your holy place?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 15:2

speaks truth from his heart

"speaks honestly"

Psalms 15:3

He does not slander with his tongue

Here "tongue" represents what a person says. The word "he" refers to the "righeous person" (Psalms 15:2). Alternate translation: "He does not slander people with his speech" or "He does not say evil things about innocent people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

harm

hurt

Psalms 15:4

The worthless person is despised in his eyes, but he honors those who fear Yahweh

"Righteous people hate those who have rejected God, but they honor those who respect God"

The worthless person

"The wicked person" or "The person who has rejected Yahweh"

Psalms 15:5

will never be shaken

Here "to be shaken" represents not living safely any longer. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "will live in safety" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 16

Psalms 16:intro-0

Psalm 016 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 16 is a psalm of praise, thanking God for all his mercies. The New Testament considers this psalm to be a messianic psalm: a psalm about Christ. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/mercy.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Messiah

God has been so good to the psalmist, who will worship no other god. The New Testament considers the tenth verse to be about Christ's resurrection when it says that he is God's anointed one, and that God will not leave his body in the grave to decay. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/resurrection.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/anoint.md]])

# Superscription

The term "Michtam" is used in the superscription for this psalm. There is much discussion about this term, but in the end no one is certain what it means. So it is easiest to transliterate this word into your language, or you are welcome to translate it as "psalm."

Psalms 16:1

General Information:

take refuge in you

Psalms 16:2

General Information:

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Psalms 16:3

the holy people who are on the earth

Here "holy people" refers to God's own people who trust him. Alternate translation: "your people who live in this land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 16:4

Their troubles will be ... gods

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The troubles of those who seek other gods will increase" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

pour out ... blood to their gods

"pour out blood as a sacrifice to their gods"

or lift up their names with my lips

Lifting up their names is a metaphor for praising them, and "lips" is a metonym for what one says. Alternate translation: "or praise them with my words" or "and I will not praise their gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exmetaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 16:5

my chosen portion

Here David speaks of Yahweh as if he were a portion of land that has been given to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my cup

Here David speaks of Yahweh as if he were a cup that contains many blessings. Alternate translation: "the one who blesses me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You hold onto my lot

"You determine my future" or "You control what will happen to me"

Psalms 16:6

Measuring lines ... in pleasant places

Here laying down measuring lines is a metonym for measuring land and giving it to someone, and here this is a metaphor for God blessing David in many great ways. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You have measured off land for me in pleasant places" or "You have given me land in pleasant places" or "You bless me like one who gives land in pleasant places" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Measuring lines

These are ropes that people use to measure a plot of land and mark its boundaries.

surely a pleasing inheritance is mine

Here David speaks of Yahweh's blessings as if they were an inheritance that he has received. Alternate translation: "I am delighted with all the things that he has given me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 16:7

General Information:

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Psalms 16:8

I set Yahweh before me at all times

"I always remember that Yahweh is with me"

so I will not be shaken from his right hand

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "nothing will take me away from his side" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 16:9

General Information:

David continues to speak to God.

my heart is glad

Here the "heart" represents the speaker's thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: "Therefore I am glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my glory is rejoicing

Possible meanings are 1) the word "glory" represents the honor a person feels. Alternate translation: "I am honored to rejoice in God" or 2) the word translated "glory" really means "liver" and represents the speaker's emotions. Alternate translation: "I am rejoicing"

Psalms 16:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 16:11

abundant joy

"great joy" or "a large amount of joy"

joy resides in your presence

The writer speaks of "joy" as if it were a person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

in your right hand

The words "right hand" indicate being in God's special presence. Alternate translation: "when I am near you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 17

Psalms 17:intro-0

Psalm 017 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 17 is a prayer for deliverance from all his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Innocence

The psalmist is innocent and needs God to rescue him from these enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/innocent.md]])

Psalms 17:1

General Information:

Give ear to my prayer from lips without deceit

The phrase "give ear" is a metaphor for listening, and "lips without deceit" is synecdoche for a person who does not lie. Alternate translation: "Listen to my prayer for I speak without deceit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 17:2

Let my vindication come from your presence

Vindication coming from God represents God judging someone and declaring him innocent. God's "presence" is a metonym for God himself. Alternate translation: "Let my vindication come from you" or "Declare that I am innocent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

let your eyes see what is right!

Here "your eyes" is synecdoche for God himself, and "see" is a metaphor for paying attention and firmly deciding to do something. Alternate translation: "please see what is right" or "do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 17:3

If you test my heart, if you come to me in the night

Here "test my heart" means to examine my thoughts and motives. Alternate translation: "If you examine my thoughts in the night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

my mouth will not transgress

Here the mouth is spoken of as if it were capable of acting on its own. It also represents the words that a person speaks. Alternate translation: "I will not tell lies or sin with my words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 17:4

it is at the word of your lips that I have kept myself from the ways of the lawless

Here "the word of your lips" is a metonym for God's instruction, and "the ways of the lawless" is a metaphor for the things that lawless people do. Alternate translation: "it is by obeying your instruction that I have kept myself from doing the things that lawless people do" or "your instruction has caused me to avoid doing wicked things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 17:5

My steps have held firmly to your tracks; my feet have not slipped

Both of these clauses mean the same thing. The repetition adds emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

my feet have not slipped

The writer speaks of his obedience to God as if he were walking on a path. Alternate translation: "I am determined to follow your ways" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 17:6

turn your ear to me ... listen when I speak

These phrases mean the same thing. Here "your ear" refers to God's willingness to hear someone who prays to him. Alternate translation: "pay attention to me ... listen when I speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 17:7

Show your covenant faithfulness in a wonderful way

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Show in a wonderful way that you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your right hand

The "right hand" refers to God's power. Alternate translation: "your mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

take refuge in you

Psalms 17:8

Protect me like the apple of your eye

The "apple of your eye" refers to something that is valuable. Alternate translation: "Protect me as you would something most valuable and precious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

hide me under the shadow of your wings

David speaks of God's protection as if he were a bird protecting its young under its wings. Alternate translation: "Keep me safe as a mother bird protects her babies by gathering them under her wing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 17:9

General Information:

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Psalms 17:10

their mouths speak with pride

Here "their mouths speak" represents his enemies when they speak. Alternate translation: "they speak with pride" or "they are always boasting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 17:11

They have surrounded my steps

Here "surrounded my steps" represents how David's enemies have followed him everywhere he goes in order to capture him. Alternate translation: "My enemies have surrounded me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 17:12

like a lion eager for a victim, like a young lion crouching in hidden places

These two phrases express very similar ideas. The repetition adds intensity. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

They are like a lion ... like a young lion

The writer feels pursued the way a lion hunts its prey (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 17:13

by your sword

This is a metaphor for Yahweh's power and for violent death in war. Alternate translation: "by having them die in war" or "by killing them in battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 17:14

Rescue me from men by your hand, Yahweh, from men of this world

This clause adds intensity to the words "Rescue my life from the wicked by your sword" (Psalms 17:13). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

by your hand

These words represent the power of Yahweh and add intensity to the words "by your sword" (Psalms 17:13). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

You will fill the bellies of your treasured ones with riches

The ancient text is hard to understand. Possible meanings are 1) "treasured" is a metaphor for loved, and "your treasured ones" refers to the people whom God loves. Alternate translation: "you will fill the bellies of the people you love with riches" or 2) "your treasured ones" refers to treasures that God gives to people, the "men of this world" Alternate translation: "you will fill their bellies with rich treasures" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You will fill the bellies ... with riches

Here "fill the bellies ... with riches" is a metaphor for giving them many valuable things. Possible meanings are 1) "You will give many riches to the people you love" or 2) "you will give the men of this world many riches" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 17:15

I will see your face in righteousness

Here "face" represents Yahweh in all of his being. David is confident he will see Yahweh. Alternate translation: "because I act in the right way, I will be with you one day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I will be satisfied, when I awake, with a sight of you

David believes that after he dies, he will be with Yahweh. This can be made clear in the translation. Alternate translation: "After I die, I will be happy to wake up in your presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 18

Psalms 18:intro-0

Psalm 018 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 18 is a psalm of praise to God for his strengthening David for war.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's power

God has tremendous power and he enabled David to prosper in war. This psalm, and its superscription, also appears in 1 Samuel 22 with some minor differences.

Psalms 18:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

he sang to Yahweh the words of this song

"he sang this song to Yahweh"

on the day that Yahweh rescued him

"after Yahweh had rescued him"

from the hand of Saul

Here "hand" stands for the power of Saul. Alternate translation: "from Saul's power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 18:2

Yahweh is my rock

David speaks of Yahweh as if he were a rock. The word "rock" is a picture of a safe place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my rock, my fortress

Here the words "rock" and "fortress" share similar meanings and emphasize that Yahweh provides safety from enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

take refuge in him

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "go to him for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my shield, the horn of my salvation, and my stronghold

David speaks of Yahweh as if he were a "shield," "the horn" of his salvation, and his "stronghold." Yahweh is the one who protects him from harm. Here a similar idea is repeated three ways for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:3

I will be saved from my enemies

"I will be rescued from my enemies"

Psalms 18:4

The cords of death surrounded me

David speaks of death as if it were a person who could capture him and bind him with ropes. Alternate translation: "I was about to be killed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

rushing waters of worthlessness

David is as helpless as if he were being carried away by a rushing flood of waters. Alternate translation: "I felt completely helpless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:5

The cords of Sheol surrounded me; the snares of death trapped me

Here "Sheol," the place of the dead, and "death" are spoken of as if they were people who could surround and trap him. These two clauses have similar meanings and the idea is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: "I felt trapped and thought I was going to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 18:6

In my distress

"In my great need" or "In my despair"

my call for help went into his presence

Here David speaks of his "call for help" as if it were a person who could come into the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I prayed to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

it went into his ears

Here David speaks of how Yahweh heard his cry for help. The idea is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: "he heard my appeal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 18:7

Then the earth ... shaken because God was angry

God's being angry is spoken of as if the there was a terrible earthquake. Alternate translation: "God was so angry that it was as if the earth ... shaken" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the earth shook and trembled

The words "shook" and "trembled" mean basically the same thing and emphasize how greatly the earth shook. Alternate translation: "the land moved back and forth" or "the ground moved up and down" or "there was a violent earthquake" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

the foundations of the mountains also trembled and were shaken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the foundations of the mountains also trembled and shook" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 18:8

Smoke went up from out of his nostrils ... Coals were ignited by it

David speaks of Yahweh as if he were breathing fire. This is a picture of how angry God was. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

blazing fire came out of his mouth. Coals were ignited by it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "blazing fire came out of his mouth and ignited coals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 18:9

He opened

The word "He" refers to Yahweh.

thick darkness was under his feet

Though Yahweh does not actually have feet, the Psalmist gives him human characteristics. Alternate translation: "thick darkness was beneath him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 18:10

wings of the wind

Here the Psalmist speaks of the wind as if it had wings like an angel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:11

He made darkness ... him

Here the words "He" and "him" refer to Yahweh.

He made darkness a tent

Here darkness is spoken of as if it were a tent. Alternate translation: "He made darkness a covering" or "He made darkness a hiding place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

heavy rainclouds

"clouds heavy with rain" or "thick, dark rainclouds"

Psalms 18:12

Hailstones

stones made of ice

Psalms 18:13

Yahweh thundered in the heavens

Yahweh's voice sounded like thunder. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the Most High

"the Most High" refers to Yahweh.

Psalms 18:14

He shot his arrows and scattered his enemies ... lightning bolts dispersed them

Both of these clauses have similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

He shot his arrows and scattered his enemies

Here lighting strikes are being spoken of as if they were arrows (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

dispersed them

"sent them in different directions"

Psalms 18:15

General Information:

The writer continues to speak of Yaweh's great power.

Then the water channels appeared; the foundations of the world were laid bare

These two clauses have similar meanings. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Then the water channels appeared and the bottom of the ocean became visible; you exposed the foundations of the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

at the blast of the breath of your nostrils

Though God does not have human physical characteristics as described here, this pictures his mighty strength. The wind is spoken of here as if it came as a mighty blast from God's nostrils. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:16

He reached down ... he took hold ... He pulled me

The word "He" in these verses refers to Yahweh.

surging water

Here the Psalmist speaks of the dangers of his enemies as if they were huge waves or forceful waters, from which Yahweh has rescued him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:17

General Information:

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Psalms 18:18

They came against me

Here "They" refers to the strong enemies in verse 17.

They came against me on the day of my distress but Yahweh was my support

The abstract noun "distress" can be stated as an adjective. The abstract noun "support" can be stated as "protected." Alternate translation: "Strong enemies attacked me on a day when I was distressed, but Yahweh protected me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 18:19

General Information:

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Psalms 18:20

my hands were clean

Here having clean hands represents being innocent of wrongdoing. Alternate translation: "I was innocent" or "my actions were right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 18:21

I have kept the ways of Yahweh

The laws of Yahweh are spoken of as if they were the paths on which one should walk. Alternate translation: "I have obeyed Yahweh's laws" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

have not wickedly turned away from my God

Here being wicked is spoken of as if one left the right path and took the wrong path. Alternate translation: "have not done wickedly by turning away from my God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:22

For all his righteous decrees ... I have not turned away from them

Both of these clauses have similar meanings. The writer repeats these ideas for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

have been before me

"have guided me" or "I have remembered"

Psalms 18:23

innocent before him

"innocent according to him"

I have kept myself from sin

"I have not sinned"

Psalms 18:24

my hands were clean

To have "clean hands" means that one is innocent of wrongdoing. See how you translated this in Psalms 18:20: Alternate translation: "I was innocent" or "my actions were right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

before his eyes

This refers to God's presence. Alternate translation: "before him" or "according to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 18:25

General Information:

The writer speaks to Yahweh. He praises Yahweh for relating to people in ways that are approprite for how the people live.

To one who is faithful

"To anyone who is faithful" or "To those who are faithful"

you show yourself to be faithful

"you show that you are faithful" or "you are faithful"

to a man who is blameless

"to anyone who is blameless" or "to those who are blameless"

you show yourself to be blameless

"you show that you are blameless" or "you are blameless"

Psalms 18:26

General Information:

The writer continuies to speak to Yahweh and to praise Yahweh for relating to people in ways that are approprite for how the people live.

To one who is pure

"To anyone who is pure" or "To those who are pure"

you show yourself to be pure

"you show that you are pure" or "you are pure"

but to one who is perverse, you show yourself to be shrewd

The perverse person might think that he is wise and can sin without being punished, but God is wiser and will do to the perverse person what that person deserves.

but to one who is perverse

"but to anyone who is perverse" or "but to those who are perverse"

you show yourself to be shrewd

"you show yourself to be wise" or "you are cunning"

Psalms 18:27

you bring down

"you humiliate"

with proud, uplifted eyes

This idiom refers to those who are proud. Alternate translation: "who are proud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 18:28

For you give light to my lamp; Yahweh my God lights up my darkness

The writer speaks of Yahweh's presence as if he were a light. These clauses have similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 18:29

For by you I can run over a barricade

"For with your help I can cross any obstacle"

Psalms 18:30

He is a shield to everyone who takes refuge in him

A shield protects a soldier. David speaks as if God were a shield protecting him. See how you translated this in Psalms 3:3. Alternate translation: "You, Yahweh, protect like a shield everyone who takes refuge in you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:31

For who is God except Yahweh? Who is a rock except our God?

The implied answer is no one. Alternate translation: "Only Yahweh is God! Only our God is a rock!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

a rock

David speaks of Yahweh as if he were a rock that he could climb to get away from his enemies. See how you translated this in Psalms 18:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:32

puts strength on me like a belt

God gives strength to David as if it were a piece of clothing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

places the blameless person on his path

Here David speaks of living a life that is pleasing to God as if he were being placed on the right path. Alternate translation: "causes the blameless person to live a righteous life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:33

makes my feet swift

This refers to enabling a person to run fast. Alternate translation: "makes me run very fast" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

like a deer and places me on the heights

The deer is especially quick and stable in the mountains. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 18:34

He trains my hands

Here "my hands" refers to the person. Alternate translation: "He trains me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

my arms

This refers to the person. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 18:35

the shield of your salvation

Here the writer speaks of God's protection as if it were a shield. The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated with the verb "save." Alternate translation: "your protection and saved me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Your right hand has supported me

Here God's right hand represents his power. Alternate translation: "Your power has supported me" or "You have supported me by your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your favor has made me great

Here God's favor represents him acting according to his favor. Alternate translation: "You have made me great according to your favor" or "By your kindness, you have made me great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 18:36

a wide place for my feet beneath me

The writer speaks of the safety that God has provided as if it were a wide place for him to stand. Here "my feet" represent the person. Alternate translation: "a safe place for me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

my feet have not slipped

Here "my feet" refers to the person. The writer refers to the safety of God's protection as if he were standing on a place where he will not slip or fall. Alternate translation: "I have not slipped" or "I am doing well" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 18:37

General Information:

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Psalms 18:38

I smashed them

"I crushed them" or "I broke them to pieces"

unable to rise

"unable to stand"

they have fallen under my feet

This idiom means the Psalmist has defeated his enemies. Alternate translation: "I have defeated all of them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 18:39

put strength on me like a belt

The Psalmist says that Yahweh has given him strength that surrounds and supports him like a belt. See how you translated this in Psalms 18:32. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

you put under me

Here the Psalmist speaks of the defeat of his enemies as if he were standing on them. Alternate translation: "you defeat for me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

those who rise up against me

This refers to those who oppose the Psalmist. Alternate translation: "those who are my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 18:40

You gave me the back of my enemies' necks

This represents God giving David victory over his enemies. Alternate translation: "You gave me victory over my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

You gave me the back of my enemies' necks

This represents God giving David victory over his enemies. Possible images are 1) David could cut his enemies' heads off at the neck or 2) David could put his foot down on his enemies' necks or 3) David could see his enemies' backs when they ran away from him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I annihilated those who hated me

"I defeated those who hated me" or "I destroyed completely those who hated me"

Psalms 18:41

but he did not answer them

This means Yahweh did not provide any help. Alternate translation: "but he did not help them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 18:42

I beat them into fine pieces like dust before the wind

The psalmists enemies are compared to dust to show how defeated they are. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I threw them out like mud in the streets

The psalmist's enemies are compared to mud in the streets to show how defeated they are. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 18:43

disputes

disagreements, arguments

have made me head over nations

Here "head" represents the ruler. Alternate translation: "appointed me to be the ruler over many nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 18:44

foreigners were forced to bow

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God forced foreigners to bow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 18:45

foreigners came trembling

Here "trembling" shows that they were very afraid. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: "foreigners came shaking, showing that they were very afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 18:46

may my rock be praised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he is my rock and he should be praised" or "may people praise my rock" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

my rock

Here the writer speaks of Yahweh's protection as if he were a rock that prevented his enemies from reaching him. See how you translated this in Psalms 18:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

May the God of my salvation be exalted

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May people exalt the God of my salvation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the God of my salvation

The abstract nouns "salvation" can be stated as "saved" or "rescued." Alternate translation: "the God who rescued me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 18:47

the God who executes vengeance for me

To "execute vengeance" means to punish people for their evil actions. This can be restated to remove the abstract noun "vengeance." Alternate translation: "the God who punishes people for the evil things they have done to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 18:48

I am set free

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has set me free" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you lifted me above

Yahweh's protection of the writer is spoken of as if he lifted the writer up so high that his enemies could not reach him to harm him. Alternate translation: "you put me in a safe place high above" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who rose against me

"who attacked me" or "who rebelled against me"

violent men

"cruel men" or "savage men"

Psalms 18:49

among the nations

Here the writer means that he will give thanks to Yahweh so that all people will hear of Yahweh's greatness. Alternate translation: "so all the nations will hear about it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

to your name

Here "name" represents God himself. Alternate translation: "in honor of your name" or "to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 18:50

victory to his king

By using the words "his king," David is referring to himself as king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

he shows his covenant loyalty to his anointed one ... to his descendants forever

"he faithfully loves me as he promised in his covenant, and he will love my descendants forever"

Psalms 19

Psalms 19:intro-0

Psalm 019 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 19 is a praise psalm, praising God for his creation and for his law.

Special concepts in this chapter

# God's law

God's law keeps people from sinning. There are two distinct themes in this psalm. Verses 1-6 are God's glory in the heavens and the second is praising God for his law. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/glory.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/heaven.md]])

Psalms 19:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

The heavens declare

The heavens are described as if they were a person. Alternate translation: "The heavens show" or "The heavens look like they declare"

the skies make his handiwork known

The skies are described as if they were a teacher. Alternate translation: "The skies seem to make God's handiwork known to us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

his handiwork

"his creation" or "the world that he has made"

Psalms 19:2

speech pours out

What is beautiful about creation is compared to speaking, as if creation were a person. Then those words are compared to water that flows everywhere. Alternate translation: "creation is like a person speaking to everyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 19:3

There is no speech or spoken words; their voice is not heard

These phrases express clearly that the first two verses were a metaphor. Alternate translation: "There is no real speech or spoken words; no one hears an actual voice with their ears"

their voice is not heard

Other translations read "where their voice is not heard," emphasizing that creation's "speech" is available everywhere.

Psalms 19:4

General Information:

David has just said that creation shows God's glory.

their words ... their speech

This refers to the unspoken "words" of creation that show God's glory.

their words go out

The words are described as if they were people who go out with a message. Alternate translation: "the words that creation speaks are like people who go out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

their speech to the end of the world

The implied words can be included in the translation. Alternate translation: "their speech goes out to the end of the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

He has pitched a tent for the sun

Here the writer speaks of the place that Yahweh created for the sun as if it were a tent. Alternate translation: "He created a place for the sun" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

among them

The word "them" probably refers to the heavens.

Psalms 19:5

The sun is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber

The writer speaks of the sun's coming out as if it were a bridegroom. Alternate translation: "The sun is like a bridegroom walking joyfully toward his bride" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like a strong man who rejoices when he runs his race

This compares the sun to an athlete to emphasize the strength and brightness of the sun. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

a strong man

"a fast runner"

Psalms 19:6

horizon

the line where the earth and the sky meet

to the other

Here "other" refers to the other horizon. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: "to the other horizon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

nothing escapes its heat

"everything feels its heat"

Psalms 19:7

restoring the soul

The words "the soul" refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: "making a person strong again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the simple

"those who have no experience" or "those who have not learned"

Psalms 19:8

the heart

These words refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: "a person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

are right

"are true" or "are correct"

bringing light to the eyes

Possible meanings are 1) "bringing understanding to a person" or 2) "making a person healthy again"

Psalms 19:9

altogether right

"completely right"

Psalms 19:10

They are of greater value than gold ... they are sweeter than honey

Yahweh's decrees are spoken of as if they could be bought and tasted. Alternate translation: "If you could buy them, they would be of greater value than gold ... if you could taste them, they would be sweeter than honey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

even more than much fine gold

The word "valuable" is understood from the previous phrase and can be repeated. Alternate translation: "even more valuable than a lot of fine gold" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

fine gold

"pure gold" or "expensive gold"

Psalms 19:11

Yes

This word marks that there is more to the truth than what has just been said. Alternate translation: "Moreover"

by them your servant is warned

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "they warn your servant" or "they are a warning for your servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

by them ... in obeying them

The word "them" refers to Yahweh's righteous decrees.

your servant is warned

David calls himself "your servant" when speaking to God as a sign of respect. Alternate translation: "I am warned" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 19:12

Who can discern all his own errors?

This appears in the form of a question to add emphasis and can be translated as a strong statement. Alternate translation: No one can be aware of his own errors!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

from hidden faults

"from secret mistakes I have made"

Psalms 19:13

Keep your servant also from

This idiom pictures the servant as being removed from the sins he does not wish to commit. Alternate translation: "Also, protect your servant from doing" or "Also, make sure that I do not commit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your servant

David calls himself "your servant" when speaking to God as a sign of respect. See how you translated this in Psalms 19:11. Alternate translation: "I" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

let them not rule over me

Sins are described as if they were a king that could rule over someone. Alternate translation: "do not let my sins become like a king who rules over me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

innocent from many transgressions

"innocent of rebelling against you" or "innocent of committing many sins"

Psalms 19:14

the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart

These expressions taken together describe everything a person says and thinks. Alternate translation: "the things I say and the things I think about" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

be acceptable in your sight

"receive approval in your sight" or "be pleasing to you"

in your sight

Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "in your judgment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Yahweh, my rock

The writer speaks of God as if he were a rock that one could climb and be protected from his enemies. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, you are like my rock" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 20

Psalms 20:intro-0

Psalm 020 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 20 is a royal psalm. It is probably a prayer for the king, perhaps when he first became king.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

Trusting God is much better than trusting in military might. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Psalms 20:1

General Information:

This Psalm begins with a group of people speaking to the king of Israel. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

help you

The word "you" in this Psalm is singular and refers to the king.

in the day of trouble

"in times of trouble" or "when you are in trouble"

may the name of the God of Jacob protect you

Possible meanings are 1) here "name" is a metonym for God's power. Alternate translation: "may the power of the God of Jacob protect you" or "may the God of Jacob protect you by his power" or 2) here "name" is a metonym for God himself. Alternate translation: "may the God of Jacob protect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 20:2

send help from the holy place

God helping from his holy place is spoken of as if God were sending help. Alternate translation: "may Yahweh help you from his holy place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

holy place ... Zion

Both of these refer to God's temple in Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 20:3

May he call to mind

The phrase "call to mind" is a way of saying "remember." It does not mean God forgot. It means to consider or think about. Alternate translation: "May he remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

May he

The word "he" refers to Yahweh.

Psalms 20:4

May he grant

"May he give"

your heart's desire

Here "heart" stands for the entire person. The abstract noun "desire" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "what you desire" or "what you want" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

fulfill all your plans

The abstract noun "plans" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "may he help you to accomplish everything that you plan to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 20:5

we will rejoice in your victory

Here "we" refers to the people. They will rejoice in the king's victory. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

in the name of our God

Here "name" represents honor or reputation. Alternate translation: "in honor of our God" or "for the reputation of our God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

we will raise banners

"we will raise victory flags." They would do this to show that they were praising God because he gave their king victory over his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

grant all your petitions

"give you everything you request from him"

Psalms 20:6

Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the psalm. It transitions from the people speaking to the king speaking.

I know

The word "I" probably refers to the king who is speaking in this section.

his anointed one ... answer him ... rescue him

The king is speaking about himself in the third person. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: "me, his anointed one ... answer me ... rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

from his holy heaven

God dwells in heaven as well as in the temple in Jerusalem (Psalms 20:2).

with the strength of his right hand that can rescue him

God's right hand represents his power. Alternate translation: "with his great strength he will rescue him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 20:7

Some trust in chariots and others in horses

Here "chariots" and "horses" represent a king's army. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

others in horses

The word "trust" is understood. Alternate translation: "other trust in horses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

we call

Here "we" refers to the writer and the readers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Psalms 20:8

we will rise

Here "we" refers to the writer and the readers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

They will be brought down and fall

The word "They" refers to the people who trust in chariots and horses. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will bring them down and make them fall" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

brought down and fall

Both these verbs mean basically the same thing. Both of these stand for losing in battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

we will rise and stand upright

"we will get up and stand up straight." These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Both of these stand for victory in battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 20:9

Yahweh, rescue the king

Possible interpretations are 1) the people ask God to protect the king or 2) the king continues to speak about himself in the third person.

the king; help us when we call

Some translations understand the Hebrew differently. Some translate it as the people speaking to Yahweh their king. Alternate translation: "King, help us when we call you"

Psalms 21

Psalms 21:intro-0

Psalm 021 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 21 is a royal psalm. The king is praying for victory. Victory in war comes from the power and help from God.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Pronouns

There is a shift in pronouns in this psalm. In verses 1-6 the psalm addresses Yahweh in second person but in verse 7 the psalmist uses third person before moving back to second person in the latter part.

Psalms 21:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

in your strength, Yahweh

It is implied that this is strength Yahweh has given the king to defeat his enemies. Alternate translation: because you, Yahweh, have made him strong enough to defeat his enemies"

How greatly he rejoices

"He rejoices greatly"

in the salvation you provide

It is implied that God has saved the king from his enemies. The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "because you have saved him from his enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 21:2

his heart's desire

"his heart's wish." Here "heart" stands for the whole person. Alternate translation: "his desire" or "what he wished for" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

have not held back

"have not refused him" or "you have given him"

the request of his lips

Here "lips" stands for the whole person. Alternate translation: "his request" or "what he requested of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 21:3

you bring him rich blessings

The abstract noun "blessings" can be stated as "bless" or "good things." Alternate translation: "you bless him greatly" or "you give him many good things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

you placed on his head a crown of purest gold

To place a crown on a person's head is a symbol of making him a king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

a crown of purest gold

Here "purest gold" represents the great honor given to the king.

Psalms 21:4

He asked you for life; you gave it to him

The abstract noun "life" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "He asked that you cause him to live for a long time; you caused it to happen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the length of his days forever and ever

The idiom "the length of his days" refers to the duration of his life. Alternate translation: "a long life that lasts forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 21:5

His glory

"The king's honor" or "The king's fame"

you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty

"you have placed on him splendor and majesty." Causing the king to be wealthy and powerful is spoken of as if splendor and majesty are objects that are placed on him. Alternate translation: "you have made him wealthy and powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 21:6

you grant him

"you allow him to have" or "you agree to give him"

lasting blessings

"a blessings that will last" or "a blessings that will stay"

the joy of your presence

"the joy of being in your presence" or "the joy that comes from you being near to you"

Psalms 21:7

through the covenant faithfulness of the Most High

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "because the Most High is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

he will not be moved

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one will remove him as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 21:8

Your hand will seize

Here "hand" represents power. Alternate translation: "Your power will seize" or "You will powerfully seize" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Your hand ... hate you

Possible meaning of all occurrences of "your" and "you" are 1) they refer to the king or 2) they refer to God.

your right hand will seize those who hate you

This means the same thing as the first part of the sentence. It emphasizes that God will give the king the power to stop his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 21:9

At the time of your anger

"When you are angry and begin to act"

your anger ... you will burn

The words "your" and "you" refers to either 1) God or 2) the king.

you will burn them up as in a fiery furnace

Yahweh or the king destroying their enemies is spoken of as if their enemies are wood and Yahweh or the king will throw them into a furnace. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Yahweh will consume them in his wrath, and the fire will devour them

Both clauses mean basically the same thing. Yahweh completely destroying his enemies is spoken of as if his wrath is a fire that completely burns up his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 21:10

You will destroy

The word "you" refers to either 1) God or 2) the king.

from the earth ... from among the human race

Both phrases mean the same thing. They emphasize that absolutely none of their enemies will survive. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 21:11

they intended

"they planned." The word "they" refers to the enemies of God and the king.

evil against you

"to do evil things to you"

they conceived a plot

"they made a plan" or "they created a scheme"

Psalms 21:12

For you will turn them back; you will draw your bow before them

Possible meanings for "you" and "your" are 1) they refer to the king or 2) they refer to God and speak about him as if he were a warrior with a bow and arrows. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will turn them back

This is a way of saying that God and the king will defeat their enemies in battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

you will draw your bow before them

This implies that he actually shoots his arrows at his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 21:13

Be exalted, Yahweh, in your strength

Possible meanings are 1) "Yahweh, show us that you are very strong" or 2) "Yahweh, because you are strong we will exalt you"

we will sing and praise your power

The words "sing" and "praise" share similar meanings. Here the word "power" represents God and his power. Alternate translation: "with singing we will praise you because you are powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 22

Psalms 22:intro-0

Psalm 022 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 22 is a messianic psalm. It contains references to events during the crucifixion of Christ. It is also a psalm of individual lament and praise. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/crucify.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lament.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Messiah

Christ was despised and taunted by his enemies; but finally people all over the earth will bow down to him.

# New Testament usage

This psalm is quoted in different places in the New Testament. Verse 1a is cited in Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34 as the words of Christ on the cross. Many of the events in the narratives of the crucifixion are mentioned in this psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/cross.md]])

Psalms 22:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

The rhythm of the deer

This may refer to a style of music.

My God, my God

The writer repeats "My God" to emphasize that he is desperate for God to hear him.

my God, why have you abandoned me?

The writer uses a question to emphasize that he feels like God has abandoned him. It may be best to leave this as a question. It can also be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "my God, I feel like you have abandoned me!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

you abandoned me

"you left me all alone"

Why are you so far from saving me and far from the words of my anguish?

Again the writer uses a question to emphasize that he feels like God is far away from him. It may be best to leave this as a question. It can also be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You are far from saving me and far from the words of my anguish!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

far from the words of my anguish

The writer feeling like God is not listening to him is spoken of as if God were far from his words of anguish. Alternate translation: "why do you not listen when I speak to you about the anguish I feel" or "I have told you about my suffering but you do not come to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 22:2

in the daytime ... at night

The writer uses the words "daytime" and "night" to mean he prays to God all the time. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

I am not silent

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I still speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 22:3

you sit as king with the praises of Israel

"the praises of Israel are the throne on which you sit as king." The praises of Israel are described as if they are a throne upon which God can sit and rule, or as a house in which God can live. Alternate translation: "you are king and the people of Israel praise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

of Israel

Here "Israel" represents the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 22:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 22:5

were not disappointed

This can be stated in active and positive form. Alternate translation: "you did not disappoint them" or "you did not fail them" or "you saved them" or "you did for them what they needed you to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

Psalms 22:6

I am a worm and not a man

The writer speaks of himself as if he were a worm. This emphasizes that he feels worthless or that the people treat him as if he were worthless. Alternate translation: "But it is like I am a worm and not a man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

disgrace to humanity and despised by the people

Both of these phrase mean basically the same thing. The phrase "despised by the people" can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "everyone thinks I am worthless and the people hate me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 22:7

taunt me; they mock me; they shake their heads at me

These three phrases share similar meanings and emphasize how much people disrespect him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

they shake their heads at me

This describes an action used to mock someone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 22:8

He trusts in Yahweh ... delights in him

The people are saying this to mock the writer. They do not really believe Yahweh will rescue him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

Let him rescue him

"Let Yahweh rescue him"

for he delights in him

Possible meanings are 1) "for Yahweh delights in him" or 2) "for he delights in Yahweh"

Psalms 22:9

For you

The writer uses the word "For" to begin explaining why he is confused and asking God why he is not coming to help. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

you brought me from the womb

This is a way of saying "you caused me to be born." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

when I was on my mother's breasts

This means that he has been trusting in Yahweh since he was very young. Alternate translation: "even from the time that I drank milk from my mother's breasts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 22:10

I have been thrown on you from the womb

The phrase "have been thrown on" is a way of saying that Yahweh has taken care of him as if Yahweh had adopted him as his own child. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "It was as though you had adopted me right when I was born" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you are my God

This implies that Yahweh has always taken care of the writer. Alternate translation: "you, God, have taken care of me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

since I was in my mother's womb

"since before I was born"

Psalms 22:11

Do not be far away from me

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Come close to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

for trouble is near

The writer speaks about "trouble" as if it were an object that is near him. Alternate translation: "for my enemies are near me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

there is no one to help

"there is no helper"

Psalms 22:12

Many bulls surround me; strong bulls of Bashan surround me

The writer speaks about his enemies as if they were bulls. This emphasizes how dangerous and powerful his enemies are. Alternate translation: "I have many enemies and they are like bulls that surround me; they are like strong bulls from Bashan that surround me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 22:13

They open their mouths wide against me

The writer speaks about his enemies as if they were lions with the mouths open ready to eat him. His enemies may be speaking lies to discredit him. Or they may be threatening him and attacking him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

like a roaring lion ripping its victim

The writer speaks about his enemies as if they were lions. This emphasizes how powerful and dangerous his enemies are. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 22:14

I am being poured out like water

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "It is like someone is pouring me out like water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I am being poured out like water

The writer speaks about feeling completely exhausted and weak as if he were water being poured out of a jar. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

all my bones are dislocated

"all my bones are out of place." It is possible the writer is in some kind of physical pain. Or he may be speaking of his emotional pain as if it were physical pain. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

My heart is like wax ... inner parts

The writer speaks about no longer having courage as if his heart melted like wax. Here "heart" represents "courage." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

wax

a soft substance that melts at a relatively low temperature

within my inner parts

"inside of me"

Psalms 22:15

My strength has dried up like a piece of pottery

The writer speaks about feeling weak as if his strength were like a dry piece of pottery that can easily break. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

piece of pottery

an object made of baked clay that can be used in the house

my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth

"my tongue sticks to the top of my mouth." The writer may be describing his extreme thirst. Or he may be continuing to speak about being weak as if he were completely dry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You have laid me in the dust of death

Possible meanings for "dust of death" are 1) it refers to a person turning to dust after they die. Alternate translation: "You are about to let me die and become dust" or 2) it is a way of speaking about the grave, which would mean God is causing the writer to die. Alternate translation: "You have laid me in my grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You have laid me

The "you" is singular and refers to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Psalms 22:16

dogs have surrounded me

The writer speaks about his enemies as if they were dogs. His enemies are coming close to him like wild dogs do to a dying animal. Alternate translation: "my enemies are like dogs that have surrounded me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a company of evildoers

"a group of evildoers" or "a gang of evildoers"

encircled

stood in a circle

they have pierced my hands and my feet

This continues the dog metaphor. The writer speaks about his enemies as if they were dogs that are biting and piercing his hands and feet with their teeth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

pierced

stabbed through something with a sharp object

Psalms 22:17

I can count all my bones

Possible meanings are 1) the writer is so thin that he can see his bones. Alternate translation: "I can see all of my bones" or "I can feel each of my bones" or 2) this continues the dog metaphor and the writer can see his bones after the dogs have ripped his flesh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

look and stare at me

The words "look" and "stare" mean basically the same thing and emphasize that people look at him awkwardly and make fun of him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 22:18

my garments

"my clothes"

Psalms 22:19

Do not be far away

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Be very close" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

my strength

Here "strength" represents Yahweh who gives him strength. Alternate translation: "you who give me strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 22:20

Rescue my soul

Here "soul" stands for the whole person. Alternate translation: "Rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the sword

The sword is a common way of referring to a violent enemy. Alternate translation: "those who want to kill me" or "my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my only life

"my precious life" or "the only life I have"

claws of wild dogs

The writer speaks about his enemies as if they were dogs to emphasize how dangerous his enemies are. Also, the claws stand for the animals as a whole in a synecdoche. The writer emphasizes this part of the animal because it is what the animals would use to kill someone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

wild dogs

The word "wild" here means that no one has captured and tamed the animal.

Psalms 22:21

lion's mouth ... horns of the wild oxen

The writer speaks about his enemies as if they were lions and wild oxen to emphasize how dangerous his enemies are. Also, the mouth and horns stand for the animals as a whole in a synecdoche. The writer emphasizes these parts of the animals because they are what the animals would use to kill someone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

wild oxen

The word "wild" here means that no one has captured and tamed the animal.

Psalms 22:22

I will declare your name

"I will make known your name." Here "name" stands for God's character or reputation. Alternate translation: "I will talk about your character" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my brothers

Here "brothers" means "my fellow Israelites" or "my fellow worshipers of Yahweh"

in the midst of the assembly

"when my fellow Israelites and I gather together" or "when I am surrounded by my fellow worshipers of Yahweh"

Psalms 22:23

You who fear

Here "You" is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you descendants of Jacob ... you descendants of Israel

Both of these refer to the same group of people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Stand in awe of him

"Be full of awe for him" or "Let God's power amaze you"

Psalms 22:24

he has not despised or abhorred the suffering of the afflicted one

Possible meanings are 1) he has not despised the afflicted one because he is suffering or 2) he has not belittled the suffering of the afflicted one

despised or abhorred

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that God has not forgotten the one who is afflicted and suffering. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

despised

strongly disliked or hated

he has not ... abhorred the suffering of the afflicted one

Here, suffering is a metonym for the person who suffers. To abhor something is to think of it as horrible. Alternate translation: "he has not ... thought of the afflicted one who suffers as horrible" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the suffering of the afflicted one ... from him ... the afflicted one cried

Possible meanings are 1) the author was speaking about how God treats people who are suffering. Alternate translation: "those who suffer ... from them ... those who are suffering cried" or 2) the author was speaking specifically about how God treated him. Alternate translation: "my suffering because of my affliction ... from me ... I cried" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

has not hidden his face from him

Hiding one's face from someone represents ignoring him. Alternate translation: "has not turned his attention away from him" or "has not ignored him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he heard

"he listened." It is implied that he responded when he heard their cry. Alternate translation: "he answered" or "he helped" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 22:25

because of you

Here "you" refers to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

I will fulfill my vows

This refers to sacrifices the writer promised to offer to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

before those who fear him

Here "him" refers to Yahweh. It can be stated as "you." Alternate translation: "in the presence of those who fear you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 22:26

The oppressed will eat and be satisfied

This refers to the fellowship meal which occurs after the writer offers to God the sacrifices that he promised. He will invite those who were suffering to eat a part of the animal he sacrificed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

those who seek Yahweh

Those who want to know Yahweh and please him are spoken of as if they are literally seeking to find Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

May your hearts live forever

Here "hearts" represent the whole person. Alternate translation: "May you live forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

May your hearts

Here "your" is plural and refers to the oppressed people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Psalms 22:27

will remember and turn to Yahweh

Starting to obey Yahweh is spoken of as if the people physically turn toward Yahweh. Alternate translation: "will remember Yahweh and obey him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all the families of the nations will bow down before you

This means the same thing as the first part of the sentence. The writer is emphasizing that everyone from every place will worship and obey Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

will bow down before you

This is a sign of giving honor and respect to someone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

before you

Here "you" refers to Yahweh. It can be translated in the third person to match the first part of the sentence. Alternate translation: "before him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 22:28

For the kingdom is Yahweh's

"For the kingdom belongs to Yahweh." Here "kingdom" represents God's rule as king. Alternate translation: "For Yahweh is king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he is the ruler over the nations

Here "nations" represents the people of the nations. Alternate translation: "he rules the people of the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 22:29

will feast

The people will eat together at the feast. Alternate translation: "will eat together" or "will eat a festive meal together"

all those who are descending into the dust ... those who cannot preserve their own lives

Both phrases refers to the same group. They both refer to all people because all people will die. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

those who are descending into the dust

Here "dust" represents the grave. The phrase "descending into the dust" is a way of referring to someone dying. Alternate translation: "those who are dying" or "those who die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

those who cannot preserve their own lives

"those who cannot save their own lives" or "those who cannot keep themselves from dying"

Psalms 22:30

A generation to come

Here "A generation" represents the people of a generation. The phrase "to come" speaks about a future time as if it were something that travels and arrives somewhere. Alternate translation: "People in the future generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the next generation

Here "generation" represents the people of that generation. Alternate translation: "the people of the next generation" or "their children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

of the Lord

"about the Lord" or "about what the Lord has done"

Psalms 22:31

tell of his righteousness

The abstract noun "righteousness" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "tell of the righteous things he has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 23

Psalms 23:intro-0

Psalm 023 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 23 is a psalm of praise to God for his continued care and protection. The psalmist praises God for always being with him and for caring for him.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphor

Psalm 23 is an extended metaphor speaking of God as if he were a shepherd, and of the psalmist as if he were a sheep. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 23:1

General Information:

In much of this psalm, David writes as if he were a sheep and the Lord were his shepherd. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exmetaphor/01.md]])

Yahweh is my shepherd

The writer speaks about Yahweh as if he were a shepherd. This emphasizes how God cares for people as a shepherd cares for his sheep. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is like a shepherd to me" or "Yahweh cares for me as a shepherd cares for his sheep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will lack nothing

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I have everything that I need" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 23:2

He makes me to lie down in green pastures

The writer speaks about himself as if he were a sheep, and he speaks about Yahweh as if he were a shepherd. Alternate translation: He gives me rest like a shepherd who leads his sheep to lie down in green pastures" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he leads me beside tranquil water

The writer speaks about himself as if he were a sheep, and he speaks about Yahweh as if he were a shepherd. Alternate translation: "he provides what I need like a shepherd who leads his sheep beside tranquil water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

tranquil water

"calm water" or "water that flows gently." This water is safe to drink.

Psalms 23:3

General Information:

This psalm continues to tell about how God cares for us as a shepherd cares for his sheep. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exmetaphor/01.md]])

He brings back my life

This means God makes a person who is weak and tired to be strong and rested again.

he guides me along right paths

Showing a person how to live in a way that pleases God is spoken of as if it were a shepherd showing a sheep the right path to take. Alternate translation: "He shows me how to live right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for his name's sake

The phrase "his name" here refers to his reputation. Alternate translation: "for his reputation" or "so that people will honor him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 23:4

General Information:

This psalm continues to tell about how God cares for us as a shepherd cares for his sheep. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exmetaphor/01.md]])

Even though I walk through a valley of darkest shadow

The writer describes a person experiencing terrible trouble as if he were a sheep walking through a dark and dangerous valley. There a sheep could get lost or attacked by a wild animal. Alternate translation: "Though my life is like walking through a dark and dangerous valley" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will not fear harm

The abstract noun "harm" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "I will not be afraid of something harming me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

you are with me

Here "you" refers to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

your rod and your staff comfort me

The rod and staff represent protection because shepherds use them to protect their sheep from danger. Alternate translation: "I am not afraid because you protect me like a shepherd who protects his sheep with his rod and staff" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 23:5

General Information:

Now the writer tells how God is like someone who welcomes a guest into his home and protects him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exmetaphor/01.md]])

You prepare a table

A table represents a feast because people would put all the food on a table. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in the presence of my enemies

The meaning here is that the writer is not worried about his enemies because he is an honored guest of the Lord and therefore protected from harm. Alternate translation: "despite the presence of my enemies"

anointed my head with oil

People sometimes put oil on their guests' heads in order to honor them.

my cup runs over

Here a cup of wine that overflows represents many blessings. Alternate translation: "You fill my cup so much that it overflows" or "You give me many blessings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 23:6

Surely goodness and covenant faithfulness will pursue me

Yahweh being good and faithful to a person is spoken of as if goodness and covenant faithfulness are things that pursue after a person. The abstract nouns "goodness" and "faithfulness" can be translated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "Surely you will be good and faithful to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

all the days of my life

The abstract noun "life" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "as long as I live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the house of Yahweh

Possible meanings are that 1) this refers to Yahweh's eternal home, or 2) this refers to Yahweh's temple in Jerusalem. If possible, translate it so that both meanings could be understood.

for the length of my days

This idiom refers to the duration of his life. Alternate translation: "as long as I live" or "forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 24

Psalms 24:intro-0

Psalm 024 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 24 is a psalm of praise to God as the almighty God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/almighty.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Righteous people

Only the righteous come to worship God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Questions

The psalmists uses several rhetorical questions. Each question forms a unit with a response. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 24:1

General Information:

its fullness

The abstract noun "fullness" can be stated with the verb "fills." Alternate translation: "everything that fills it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 24:2

For he has founded it upon the seas and established it on the rivers

Here "founded it upon the seas" and "established it on the rivers" mean basically the same thing. The Hebrews of that time believed their land was supported by the oceans and deep underground rivers. Alternate translation: For he formed its foundation on the seas and built it on the deep waters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the seas ... the rivers

These phrases are used together to refer to the huge deep ocean below the earth.

on the rivers

"the water that is deep below"

Psalms 24:3

Who will ascend the mountain ... in his holy place?

Both of these questions mean basically the same thing. The speaker is asking about who is allowed to go and worship Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

will ascend

"will go up" or "will climb"

the mountain of Yahweh

This refers to Mount Zion in Jerusalem.

his holy place

This refers Yahweh's temple. His temple is on Mount Zion in Jerusalem.

Psalms 24:4

He who has ... who has ... and has not

Here "He" does not refer to a specific person. Alternate translation: "Those who have ... who have ... and have not" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

who has clean hands

The word "hands" represents what a person does. For his "hands" to be clean means he does what is right. Alternate translation: "who does what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a pure heart

Here "heart" represents a person's thoughts or motives. Alternate translation: "thinks good thoughts" or "does not think about doing what is wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

who has not lifted up a falsehood

Here "falsehood" represents a false idol. To "lift up" means to worship. Alternate translation: "who has not worshiped an idol" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 24:5

He will receive a blessing from Yahweh

The word "he" does not refer to a specific person. It refers to the ones with pure hearts mentioned in previous verse. The abstract noun "blessing" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will bless them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

righteousness from the God of his salvation

The abstract noun "righteousness" can be stated as "righteously." And, "salvation" can be stated as "save." Alternate translation: "God will deal righteously with him and save him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 24:6

Such is the generation of those who seek him

Here "generation" represents people in general. Alternate translation: "The people who seek him are like this" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

those who seek him, those who seek the face of the God of Jacob

Both statements mean the same thing. They both refer to those who go to the temple to worship God. Alternate translation: "the ones who approach God, they are the ones who may worship God, the one we Israelites worship" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

those who seek him

Going to the temple to worship Yahweh is spoken of as if the person is literally seeking to find him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the face of the God of Jacob

Here "face" stands for the whole person. Alternate translation: "the God of Jacob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 24:7

Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, everlasting doors

The two phases are very similar in meaning. The words "gates" and "doors" refer to the gates of the temple. The writer is speaking to the gates as if they were a person. A gatekeeper would be the one to open the gates. Alternate translation: "Open up, you ancient gates" or "Open these ancient gates" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Lift up your heads

It is uncertain what specific part of the gate is the "head." But, it stands for the gate as a whole. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 24:8

Yahweh, strong and mighty; Yahweh, mighty in battle

The writer speaks about Yahweh as if he were a mighty warrior who fights in battles. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 24:9

Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, everlasting doors

The two phases are very similar in meaning. The words "gates" and "doors" refer to the gates of the temple. The writer is speaking to the gates as if they were a person. A gatekeeper would be the one to open the gates. See how you translated this in Psalms 24:7. Alternate translation: "Open up, you ancient gates" or "Open these ancient gates" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Lift up your heads

It is uncertain what specific part of the gate is the "head." But, it stands for the gate as a whole. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 24:10

General Information:

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Psalms 25

Psalms 25:intro-0

Psalm 025 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 25 is a prayer for God's help.

Special concepts in this chapter

# The humble

God is very good to humble people who seek to obey him.

Psalms 25:1

General Information:

I lift up my life

The phrase "lift up my life" is a metaphor. Possible meanings are 1) the writer is giving himself to Yahweh, which means he is completely depending on Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I give myself to you" or 2) he is offering prayer and adoration to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I worship and adore you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 25:2

Do not let me be humiliated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Do not let my enemies humiliate me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

rejoice triumphantly over me

"rejoice in triumph over me." The phrase "over me" implies that his enemies have defeated him and stand above in victory. Alternate translation: "defeat me and rejoice about it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 25:3

May no one who hopes in you be disgraced

"Do not let those who hope in you be disgraced." Disgrace could come from being defeated by their enemies. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Do not let enemies defeat those who hope in you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

who hopes in you

"who trusts you"

act treacherously

"act deceitfully" or "act with trickery"

without cause

"without a reason"

Psalms 25:4

Make known to me your ways, Yahweh; teach me your paths

Both statements mean the same thing. God teaching a person how they should behave is spoken of as if he were showing a person the correct path on which a person should travel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 25:5

I hope in you

"I depend on you" or "I wait patiently for you"

Guide me into your truth and teach me

Guide and teach mean the same thing, to give instruction. Alternate translation: "Instruct me to conduct my life by obeying your truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

the God of my salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as "saves." Alternate translation: "the one who saves me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 25:6

Call to mind

This is an idiom. This does not mean God forgot something. The writer is asking God to think about and consider his acts of compassion and faithfulness. Alternate translation: "Remember" or "Think about" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your acts of compassion and of covenant faithfulness

The abstract nouns "compassion" and "faithfulness" can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "how you have been compassionate and faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

for they have always existed

Here "they" personifies God's compassion and covenant faithfulness. Alternate translation: "for that is how you have always been" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 25:7

Do not think about the sins of my youth

The abstract noun "sins" can be stated as "sinned." Alternate translation: "Do not think about how I sinned against you when I was young" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

or my rebelliousness

The abstract noun "rebelliousness" can be stated as "rebelled." Alternate translation: or about how I have rebelled against you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Call me to mind

This is an idiom. This does not mean God forgot something. The writer is asking God to think about him. Alternate translation: "Remember me" or "Think about me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

with covenant faithfulness because of your goodness

The abstract nouns "faithfulness" and "goodness" can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "and be faithful to me because of your covenant, because you are good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 25:8

the way

How God wants a person to behave is spoken of as if it were a way or path on which a person travels. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 25:9

the humble

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "humble people" or "those who are humble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

his way

How God wants a person to behave is spoken of as if it were a way or path on which a person travels. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 25:10

All the paths of Yahweh are steadfast love and faithfulness

Here "paths" is a metaphor that represents what some one does or their character. The abstract nouns "loves" and "faithfulness" can be expressed with the verb "love" and the adjective "faithful." Alternate translation: "Yahweh always loves and is faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 25:11

For your name's sake

The phrase "your name" here refers to Yahweh's reputation. Alternate translation: "For your reputation" or "So that people will honor you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

pardon my sin, for it is great

The abstract noun "sin" can be stated as "sinned." Alternate translation: "please forgive me, for I have sinned much" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 25:12

Who is the man who fears Yahweh?

This question introduces "the man who fears Yahweh" as a new topic. Alternate translation: "I will tell you about the man who fears Yahweh." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

is the man who fears ... instruct him ... he should

These words refer to any person who fears Yahweh, not a specific person. Alternate translation: "are those who fear ... instruct them ... they should" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

The Lord will instruct him in the way that he should choose

Yahweh teaching people how they should behave is spoken of as if Yahweh were teaching the people what way or path they should travel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 25:13

His life ... his descendants

These words refer to any person who fears Yahweh, not a specific person. Alternate translation: "Their lives ... their descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

His life will go along in goodness

"God will cause him to prosper" or "God will cause them to prosper"

Psalms 25:14

The friendship of Yahweh is for those

"Yahweh is a friend to those." Some translate it as "Yahweh confides in those." His confiding in them shows the intimate friendship he has with them.

Psalms 25:15

My eyes are always on Yahweh

Here "eyes" represents looking. It is implied that he looks to Yahweh for help. Alternate translation: "I always look to Yahweh to help me" or "I always depend on Yahweh to help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

for he will free my feet from the net

A net is a trap. A person who is in danger is spoken of as if their feet are tangled in a net. Alternate translation: He will rescue me from danger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 25:16

Turn toward me

Yahweh paying attention to a person and considering him is spoken of as if Yahweh were physically turning towards the person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 25:17

The troubles of my heart are enlarged

Here "heart" represents a person's emotions. Alternate translation: "I feel more and more troubled" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

draw me out from my distress

"bring me out of my distress." This speaks of distress as if it were a place that a person can be brought out of. Alternate translation: "rescue me from my distress" or "relieve me of my distress" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my distress

The word "distress" is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: "the things that distress me" or "the things that cause me to be afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 25:18

See my affliction

"Notice my affliction"

my affliction

The abstract noun "affliction" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "the things that afflict me" or "how afflicted I am" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my toils

The word "toils" is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: "the things that trouble me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 25:19

they hate me with cruel hatred

"they hate me cruelly" or "they hate me fiercely"

Psalms 25:20

do not let me be humiliated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Do not let my enemies humiliate me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

take refuge in you!

Psalms 25:21

May integrity and uprightness preserve me

This speaks about "integrity" and "uprightness" as if they were persons who could keep another person safe. These abstract nouns can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "May being honest and doing what is right preserve me" or "Preserve me, Lord, because I am honest and do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

preserve me

"keep me safe"

Psalms 25:22

Rescue Israel

"Save Israel" or "Redeem Israel"

Israel ... his troubles

Here "Israel" represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "the people of Israel ... our troubles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 26

Psalms 26:intro-0

Psalm 026 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 26 is a teaching psalm; showing people how they should live by the example of the psalmsist.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

The psalmist delights in praising God and doing good deeds. It is striking how this psalm uses the first person pronoun. This is an individual psalm of petition. Each of the four petitions are accompanied with various claims. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/works.md]])

Psalms 26:1

General Information:

I have walked

The word "walked" is a metaphor for behavior. Alternate translation: "I have behaved" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in Yahweh

The third person use of "Yahweh" can be stated in the second person. Alternate translation: "in you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

without wavering

Doubting is spoken of as if it were losing balance and waving back and forth. Alternate translation: "without doubting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 26:2

Examine me

"Try me"

test the purity of my inner parts and my heart

Here "inner parts" and "heart" mean motives. Alternate translation: "test whether my motives are good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 26:3

For your covenant faithfulness is before my eyes

Here "eyes" represent a person's thoughts and having something before one's eyes represents being aware of that thing. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "For I am always aware of your covenant faithfulness" or "For I am always aware that you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

I walk about in your faithfulness

The word "walk" is a metaphor for behavior. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "I conduct my life according to your faithfulness" or "I behave the way I do because you are faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 26:4

I do not associate with

"I do not keep company with" or "I do not sit with"

with deceitful people

"with those who deceive others"

nor do I mingle with dishonest people

This means the same as the first part of the sentence. Alternate translation: "and I do not join with dishonest people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

dishonest people

"hypocrites" or "those who lie to others"

Psalms 26:5

the assembly of evildoers

"those who gather to do evil"

the wicked

This is a nominal adjective. Alternate translation: "wicked people" or "those who are wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 26:6

I wash my hands in innocence

This seems to refer to a ritual washing of hands in water to symbolize freedom from sin and guilt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

I go around your altar

This was an action of worship that the Israelites were accustomed to doing.

Psalms 26:7

General Information:

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Psalms 26:8

the house where you live

Possible meanings are 1) if a person wrote this after the time of David, then the writer is referring to the temple in Jerusalem or 2) if David wrote this, then this refers to the tent that God told his people to set up so that they could worship him there.

the place where your glory lives

Here "glory" represents the presence and power of God, which is similar to a very bright light. Alternate translation: "the place where people can see the glorious light of your presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 26:9

Do not sweep me away with sinners

"Sweep away" here is a metaphor for destruction. Alternate translation: "Do not destroy me along with sinners" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

or my life

The word "sweep" is understood. Alternate translation: "or sweep my life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

people who are bloodthirsty

The word "bloodthirsty" represents wanting to kill people. Alternate translation: "people who are eager to shed others' blood" or "murderers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 26:10

in whose hands

"Hands" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "people in which" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

a plot

"a wicked plan"

Psalms 26:11

But as for me

This phrase shows that the writer is changing from speaking about wicked people to talking about himself.

I will walk in integrity

"Walk" here is a metaphor for behavior. Alternate translation: "I will behave with integrity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 26:12

My foot stands

Here "foot" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I stand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

level ground

Possible meanings are that "level ground" represents 1) a safe place or 2) right behavior (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the assemblies will I bless Yahweh

"when I gather with the people of Israel I will praise you"

Psalms 27

Psalms 27:intro-0

Psalm 027 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 27 is a psalm of praise to God because God keeps the psalmist safe from all his enemies.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

Because of God's help, he has nothing to fear, no matter what happens. The psalmist shows his confidence in God; he also asks God for help.

Psalms 27:1

General Information:

Yahweh is my light

Here "light" represents life. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is the source of my life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

whom should I fear?

This question emphasizes that there is no one that David should fear. Alternate translation: "I will not be afraid of anyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Yahweh is my life's refuge

This speaks about Yahweh as if he were a place where people can go for safety. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is the one who keeps me safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

whom should I dread?

This question emphasizes that there is no one that David should be afraid of. Alternate translation: "I will not dread anyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 27:2

to devour my flesh

Destroying someone completely is spoken of as if it were devouring a person's flesh. He did not mean that they wanted to eat his body. Alternate translation: "to destroy me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my adversaries and my enemies

These words mean the same thing. These are the evildoers who came near to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

stumbled and fell

This represents the writer's enemies failing to fulfill their plans to harm the writer. Alternate translation: "did not succeed" or "failed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 27:3

Though an army encamps against me

"though an army surrounds me" or "though an army puts its tents around me"

my heart will not fear

Here "heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will not be afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

though war rises up against me

The writer's enemies are spoken of as if they themselves were a war. Alternate translation: "though my enemies come to fight against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will remain confident

"I will continue to trust God to help me"

Psalms 27:4

have I asked of Yahweh

"I have asked Yahweh to let me do"

I will seek that

A person really wanting something and continually asking God for it is spoken of as if he were seeking to find something. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to see the beauty of Yahweh

The wonderful character of God is spoken of as if it were physical beauty. Alternate translation: "to see how wonderful Yahweh is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to meditate in his temple

Possible meanings are 1) "to ask God what he wants me to do" or 2) "to think carefully about God in his temple."

Psalms 27:5

in the day of trouble

"in times of trouble" or "when I have troubles"

he will hide me

"he will protect me"

his shelter ... his tent

Both of these refer to the tabernacle where the writer is worshiping God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

in the cover of his tent

The word "cover" represents something that hides and protects.

He will lift me high on a rock

God keeping the writer safe from his enemies is spoken of as if God were placing him on a high rock where his enemies cannot reach him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 27:6

my head will be lifted up above my enemies

This represents the writer receiving pride or honor when he defeats his enemies. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people will honor me when I win the fight against my enemies" or "God will honor me by enabling me to defeat my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 27:7

Hear, Yahweh, my voice

The "voice" often represents a person who speak or calls out. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, hear me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

answer me

This implies that Yahweh hears the writer's prayer and Yahweh will do what the writer asks. Alternate translation: "answer my prayer" or "do what I request of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 27:8

My heart says

Here "heart" represents a person's mind or thoughts. Alternate translation: "In my heart I say" or "I say to myself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Seek his face

A person going to the temple to pray to Yahweh is spoken of as if the person were seeking to find Yahweh. Here "face" represents all of God. Alternate translation: "Go and pray to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I seek your face, Yahweh

A person going to the temple to pray to Yahweh is spoken of as if the person were seeking to find Yahweh. Here "face" represents all of God. Alternate translation: "I will come to your temple to pray to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 27:9

Do not hide your face from me

The face here represents Yahweh's attention, and hiding the face represents rejecting someone. Alternate translation: "Do not reject me" or "Do not stop taking care of me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not turn your servant away in anger

David said "your servant" to refer to himself in a humble way. Alternate translation: "do not be angry with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

forsake me or abandon me

The words "forsake" and "abandon" mean the same thing. The writer is emphasizing that he does not want God to leave him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

God of my salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as "saves." Alternate translation: God who saves me" or "because you are the God who saves me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 27:10

Even if my father and my mother forsake me

He is not saying that they actually have done this or that they would do it. His point is that even if they did that, God would not abandon him.

Yahweh will take me in

"Yahweh will keep me" or "Yahweh will take care of me"

Psalms 27:11

Teach me your way

How a person should behave is spoken of as if it were a way or path that person should travel. Alternate translation: "Teach me how you want me to live" or "Teach me to do what you want me to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Lead me on a level path

Yahweh keeping the writer safe from his enemies is spoken of as if Yahweh leads the writer on a level path where he will not stumble and fall. Alternate translation: "Keep me safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 27:12

Do not give me up to the desires of my enemies

The abstract noun "desires" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "Do not let my enemies do to me what they desire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

have risen up against me

"Risen up" here is an idiom meaning that a witness stood in court to present testimony. Alternate translation: "have stood up in order to speak against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

they breathe out violence

Here violence is spoken for as if it was something a person could breathe out. Alternate translation: "they say that they will do violent things to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 27:13

What would have happened to me

This rhetorical question can be stated positively. Alternate translation: "Something bad would have happened to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the goodness of Yahweh

The abstract noun "goodness" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "the good things that Yahweh does" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

in the land of the living

This refers to being alive. Alternate translation: "while I am alive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 27:14

Wait for Yahweh ... Wait for Yahweh!

This verse may be 1) the writer speaking to himself or 2) the writer speaking to others or 3) someone speaking to the writer.

let your heart be courageous

Here "heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "be courageous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Wait for Yahweh!

This line is repeated at the end of the psalm as a way of ending the psalm.

Psalms 28

Psalms 28:intro-0

Psalm 028 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 28 is a psalm of prayer to God that he is not be punished along with the wicked people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

The psalmist trusted God completely and God rescued him. This is similar to psalm 7 and 17 because it is an individual lament psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lament.md]])

Psalms 28:1

General Information:

I cry out

"I call out loudly"

my rock

This is a metaphor for strength. Alternate translation: "my strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not ignore me

"do not be silent to me" or "do not leave me alone"

I will join those who go down to the grave

People who die are spoken of as if they are going down into the grave. Alternate translation: "I will die like those who are in the grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 28:2

Hear the sound of my pleading

Here "sound" refers to the content of his request. Alternate translation: "Hear my strong request" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I lift up my hands toward your most holy place

Lifting up hands is a symbol of worship. The writer is not worshiping the holy place, but Yahweh who lives in the holy place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

your most holy place

Possible meanings are 1) if David wrote this, then this refers to the tent that God told his people to set up so that they could worship him there, or 2) if a person wrote this after the time of David, then the writer is referring to the temple in Jerusalem.

Psalms 28:3

Do not drag me away

God punishing people is spoken of as if he physically drags them away. In this metaphor Yahweh may be dragging them to prison, exile, or death. Alternate translation: "Do not remove me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who speak peace with their neighbors

Here "neighbors" refers to people in general. Alternate translation: "who speak peacefully with other people"

but have evil in their hearts

Here "hearts" represents a person's mind or thoughts. Alternate translation: "but are thinking something evil about them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 28:4

Give them what their deeds deserve ... repay them what their wickedness demands

These two phrases mean the same thing. They are used together to emphasize that they deserve for God to punish them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the work of their hands

Here "hands" represent what the person has done. Alternate translation: "the things they have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

render to them their due

"give them what they deserve"

Psalms 28:5

Because they do not understand ... never rebuild them

Possible meanings are 1) David is confident about what God will do to wicked people or 2) David is asking God to destroy the wicked people.

they do not understand the deeds of Yahweh

It is implied that "do not understand" means they ignore or do not honor Yahweh's works. Alternate translation: "they do not regard with honor what Yahweh has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the work of his hands

Here "hands" represents what Yahweh has done or created. Alternate translation: "what he has created" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he will tear them down and never rebuild them

The punishment of the wicked people is spoken of as if they were a building or a city that God would destroy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 28:6

he has heard the sound of my pleading

Here "sound" represents what the writer said. Alternate translation: "has heard what I said when I pleaded to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 28:7

Yahweh is my strength

The abstract noun "strength" can be stated as "strong." Alternate translation: "Yahweh makes me strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my shield

This represents Yahweh's protecting the writer. Alternate translation: "he protects me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my heart trusts

Here "heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I trust" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I am helped

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he helps me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

my heart greatly rejoices

Here "heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I greatly rejoice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 28:8

Yahweh is the strength of his people

The abstract noun "strength" can be stated as "strong." Alternate translation: "Yahweh makes his people strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

he is the saving refuge of his anointed one

Yahweh keeping the king safe is spoken of as if Yahweh were a place that the king could go for safety. Alternate translation: "he keeps safe the one he appointed to be king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his anointed one

The represents the king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 28:9

your inheritance

This speaks about the people of God as if they were something God inherited. Alternate translation: "your possession" or "those who belong to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Be their shepherd and carry them forever

The writer speaks about Yahweh as if he were a shepherd and the people are his sheep. A shepherd would carry a sheep if it needed help or protection. Alternate translation: "Be like their shepherd and protect them forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 29

Psalms 29:intro-0

Psalm 029 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 29 is a worship psalm. It tells how Yahweh rules all nature.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's power

God is powerful. All he has to do is to speak in order to control nature.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metonymy

The voice of the Yahweh stands for Yahweh himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 29:1

General Information:

you sons of God

The phrase "sons of" is a way of saying "having the characteristics of." Alternate translation: "you mighty men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

ascribe to Yahweh glory and strength

The abstract nouns "glory" and "strength" can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "praise Yahweh because he is glorious and strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 29:2

Ascribe to Yahweh the glory his name deserves

The abstract noun "glory" can be stated as a verb or adjective. Alternate translation: "Honor Yahweh just as his name deserves" or "Proclaim that Yahweh is glorious just as his name deserves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

his name deserves

The phrase "his name" refers to Yahweh or his reputation. Alternate translation: "as is proper because of who he is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Bow down to Yahweh

The implied information is that the people were to bow down in worship. Alternate translation: "Bow down to worship Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

in the splendor of holiness

The abstract nouns "splendor" and "holiness" can be translated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "because he is gloriously beautiful and holy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 29:3

General Information:

The psalm shows Yahweh's power and glory.

The voice of Yahweh is heard over the waters

God's voice is louder and clearer than all other sounds and noises. It can be heard over other loud sounds such as the sound of the waters. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "When Yahweh speaks his voice is louder than the sound of the sea" or "Yahweh shouts louder than the sound of the waters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

over the waters

This refers to the seas or the oceans. These waters make a very loud noise as the waves rise and fall.

The voice of Yahweh

All occurrences of "voice" here represent Yahweh speaking. The writer is emphasizing that when Yahweh speaks, the sound is so loud it is heard over the waters, and it is so powerful it can destroy the largest trees. Alternate translation: "When Yahweh speaks, his voice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the God of glory thunders

This speaks about God speaking as if it were the sound of thunder. Just like the sound of thunder, Yahweh's voice can be heard over large distances. Alternate translation: "The voice of the glorious God is loud like thunder" or "When the glorious God speaks it rumbles like thunder" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

over many waters

"over the large bodies of water"

Psalms 29:4

General Information:

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Psalms 29:5

General Information:

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Psalms 29:6

Connecting Statement:

The writer continues describing the power of God's voice.

He makes Lebanon skip like a calf

The ground of Lebanon shaking is spoken of as if it were a young calf skipping. This emphasizes that when Yahweh speaks, the power of his voice shakes the ground. Alternate translation: "He makes the land of Lebanon shake like a calf skipping" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

skip

jump lightly back and forth

Sirion like a young ox

The words "he makes" and "skip" are understood from the first phrase. They can be repeated here. The ground of Sirion shaking is spoken of as if it were a young ox skipping. This emphasizes that when Yahweh speaks, the power of his voice shakes the ground. Alternate translation: "he makes Sirion skip like a young ox" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Sirion

This is a mountain in Lebanon. It is also called Mount Hermon. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 29:7

The voice of Yahweh sends out flames of fire

All occurrences of "voice" here represent Yahweh speaking. Alternate translation: "When Yahweh speaks he causes lightning to flash in the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

flames of fire

This refers to lightning.

Psalms 29:8

General Information:

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Psalms 29:9

The voice of Yahweh causes

Here "voice" represents Yahweh speaking. Alternate translation: "When Yahweh speaks, the sound causes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the oaks to twist

"the large trees to shake"

strips the forests bare

Removing the leaves of the trees is spoken of as if it was removing their clothing. Alternate translation: "strips off the leaves from the trees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 29:10

Yahweh sits as king

This means that Yahweh rules. Alternate translation: "Yahweh rules" or "Yahweh is king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

over the flood

Here "flood" refers to waters that cover the earth.

Psalms 29:11

Yahweh blesses his people with peace

The word "peace" is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: "Yahweh blesses his people by causing them to prosper and to live peacefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 30

Psalms 30:intro-0

Psalm 030 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 30 is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving to God. The psalmist was near death but God rescued him.

Special concepts in this chapter

# The psalmist's death

If he had died, it would not have been a help to God. But since God rescued him he can praise God.

Psalms 30:1

General Information:

a song at the dedication of the temple

"This song was sung when the temple was dedicated"

you have raised me up

The writer speaks of God rescuing him and keeping him from dying as if God had drawn him up from a deep well. Alternate translation: "you rescued me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 30:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 30:3

brought up my soul from Sheol

Since "Sheol" was the place where dead people go, it refers to death. Alternate translation: "kept me from dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

brought up my soul

Here "my soul" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "brought me up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

from going down to the grave

The "grave" represents death. Alternate translation: "from dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 30:4

Give thanks when you remember his holiness

The abstract nouns "thanks" and "holiness" can be stated as "thank" and "holy." Alternate translation: "Remember that God is holy and thank him" or "Remember what God has done because he is holy and thank him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 30:5

his anger is only for a moment

"his anger lasts only a moment." The abstract noun "anger" can be stated as "angry." Alternate translation: "he is angry for only a moment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

a moment

Here "moment" represents a short amount of time. Alternate translation: "a short time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

but his favor is for a lifetime

The abstract noun "favor" can be stated as the adjective "good." Alternate translation: "but he is good to us all of our lives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Weeping comes for a night, but joy comes in the morning

This speaks about "weeping" and "joy" as if they were something that travels and arrives at a certain time. Alternate translation: "We may cry during the night, but the next morning we will be joyful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 30:6

In confidence

The word "confidence" is an abstract noun. The writer recalls a time when he was prospering and felt confident and safe. Alternate translation: "When I was confident" or "When I felt safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

I will never be shaken

The word "shaken" is a metaphor for defeat. Alternate translation: "No one will defeat me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 30:7

by your favor

The abstract noun "favor" can be stated as the verb "favored" or the adjective "kind." Alternate translation: "when you favored me" or "when you were kind to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

you established me as a strong mountain

The writer's security is spoken of as if he were a strong mountain. Alternate translation: "you made me as secure as a high mountain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

when you hid your face

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "when you stopped helping me" or "when you rejected me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I was troubled

"I was fearful" or "I was worried"

Psalms 30:8

sought favor from my Lord

The phrase "sought favor" means to ask for help. Alternate translation: "I pleaded for you to help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

from my Lord

The writer is referring to Yahweh in third person. It can be stated in second person. Alternate translation: "from you, my Lord" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 30:9

What advantage is there in my death, if I go down to the grave?

The writer uses this question to emphasize that he would be of no value to God if he were dead. Alternate translation: "There is no advantage if I die and go down to the grave." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Will the dust praise you? Will it declare your trustworthiness?

The writer uses these questions to emphasize that his dead and decayed body cannot praise God. Alternate translation: "The dust will certainly not praise you or tell others about how trustworthy you are." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the dust

This refers to the body of the writer which will decay and become dust when he is dead. Alternate translation: "my decayed body" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 30:10

General Information:

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Psalms 30:11

You have turned my mourning into dancing

It was customary for the Jews to dance when they were very happy. The abstract nouns "mourning" and "dancing" can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: "You have caused me to stop mourning and to dance with joy instead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

you have removed my sackcloth

Sackcloth was associated with mourning and sorrow. Alternate translation: "You have caused me to no longer be sad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

clothed me with gladness

The writer speaks of gladness as if it were a garment that he could put on. Alternate translation: "caused me to be glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 30:12

my glory will sing praise to you

Here "my glory" refers to the writer's soul or heart or inner being. This represents the entire person of the writer, who worships God because God has made him glad. Alternate translation: "I will sing praise to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 31

Psalms 31:intro-0

Psalm 031 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 31 is a psalm of deliverance. The psalmist's enemies thought they had defeated him, but God protected him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Abandonment

Even though everyone deserted and despised the psalmist, God did not abandon him.

Psalms 31:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

In you, Yahweh, I take refuge

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "I go to you, Yahweh, for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

never let me be humiliated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "do not let others humiliate me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 31:2

be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to save me

The phrase "be my rock of refuge" is a request for protection. The second phrase emphasizes the first phrase. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

my rock of refuge

Yahweh is spoke of as if he were a huge rock that would protect the writer from attack. Alternate translation: "like a huge rock on which I can be safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a stronghold to save me

Yahweh is spoken of as if he were a strong fortress in which the writer would be protected from his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 31:3

my rock

my fortress

Yahweh is spoken of as if he were a strong fortress in which the writer would be protected from his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for your name's sake

In this phrase "name" represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: "so that your name may be honored" or "so that I may worship you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

lead and guide me

The words "lead" and "guide" mean basically the same thing and strengthen the request that Yahweh lead him. Alternate translation: "lead me where you want me to go" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 31:4

Pluck me out of the net that they have hidden for me

The writer is spoken of as if he were a bird caught in a hidden net, and waiting for Yahweh to free him from the trap. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you are my refuge

Yahweh is spoken of as if he is a place where the writer can hide from people who are attacking him. Alternate translation: "you always protect me" or "you give me constant protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 31:5

Into your hands

God is spirit, but he is here spoken of as if he has hands. Here "your hands" refers to Yahweh's care. Alternate translation: "Into your care" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I entrust my spirit

Here "my spirit" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "I place myself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

God of trustworthiness

"you are a God I can trust"

Psalms 31:6

I hate those who serve worthless idols

Here the word "worthless" refers to all idols. This can be clarified in translation. Alternate translation: "Idols are worthless. I hate those who serve them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-distinguish/01.md]])

Psalms 31:7

I will be glad and rejoice in your covenant faithfulness

The words "glad" and "rejoice" share similar meanings and emphasize the intensity of joy. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "I will be very glad because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

you saw my affliction ... you knew the distress of my soul

Both of these phrases express the idea that God knows about the writer's troubles. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the distress of my soul

Here "my soul" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "my distress" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 31:8

You have set my feet

Here "my feet" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "You have set me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

a wide open place

The Hebrews thought of wide open spaces as a metaphor for safety and freedom. Alternate translation: "a place where I am free" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 31:9

I am in distress

"I am suffering greatly"

my soul and my body

The terms "soul" and "body" are used to describe the complete person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 31:10

For my life is weary

Here "my life" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "I have become very weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

with sorrow ... with groaning

"because of my sorrow ... because of my groaning"

my years with groaning

The phrase "is weary" is missing, but is implied. Alternate translation: "my years are weary with groaning" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

My strength fails

Here "My strength" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "I have become weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my bones are wasting away

Here "my bones" refers to the physical health of the writer. Alternate translation: "my health is failing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 31:11

people disdain me

"people insult me"

are appalled at my situation

"are shocked at my condition"

Psalms 31:12

as a dead man whom no one thinks about

People do not think about dead people. The writer does not think people think about him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like a broken pot

The writer speaks of himself as if he was completely useless. "as useless as a broken pot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 31:13

the whispering of many

It is implied that "many" refers to people. Alternate translation: "many people talking about me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

terrifying news from every side

"scary reports from many sources"

take away my life

This idiom means to kill someone. Alternate translation: "kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 31:14

General Information:

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Psalms 31:15

My times are in your hand

Here "your hand" refers to Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "You have the power to decide my future" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from those who pursue me

"from people who try to capture me"

Psalms 31:16

Make your face shine on your servant

The writer speaks of Yahweh acting favorably towards him as if Yahweh's face shone a light on him. Alternate translation: "Act favorably towards your servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

save me in your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "save me because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 31:17

Do not let me be humiliated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Do not let others make me feel ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

May the wicked be humiliated!

"I wish that God would disgrace wicked people!"

the wicked

This refers to "wicked people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

May they be silent in Sheol

Here "in Sheol" represents death. Alternate translation: "Let them die so they cannot speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 31:18

May lying lips be silenced

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "May someone make these lying lips silent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

lying lips

These represent lying people. Alternate translation: "people who lie" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that speak against the righteous defiantly

Here "the righteous" refers to people who are righteous. Alternate translation: "that say terrible things about righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

with arrogance and contempt

These terms have similar meanings. Alternate translation: "with a complete lack of respect"

Psalms 31:19

is your goodness

This can be expressed with a verb. Alternate translation: "are the good things you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

that you have stored up

Yahweh's goodness is spoken of as if it was something that could be stored up like a harvest. Alternate translation: "that you are keeping ready to use" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who revere you

"those who respect you greatly"

take refuge in you

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. See how you translated this in Psalms 31:1. Alternate translation: "those who go to you for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 31:20

In the shelter of your presence, you hide them ... You hide them in a shelter

These phrases both mean that God protects them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

In the shelter

Yahweh's presence is spoken of as if it is a strong building where the writer would be safe. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You hide them in a shelter

Here a "shelter" represents a safe place. Alternate translation: "You provide a safe place for them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from the violence of tongues

Here "tongues" refer to the people who are speaking violent things against the writer. Alternate translation: "where their enemies cannot speak evil at them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 31:21

he showed me his marvelous covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "he showed me that he is wonderfully faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 31:22

I am cut off from your eyes

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You have removed me from your presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your eyes

Here Yahweh is represented by his "eyes." Alternate translation: "you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you heard my plea for help

Here "plea" can be expressed with a verb. Alternate translation: "you heard me plead for help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 31:23

the faithful

This refers to the faithful people. Alternate translation: "the people who are faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

he pays back the arrogant in full

Here "pay back" is an idiom that refers to punishment. Alternate translation: "he gives the proud people all of the punishment that they deserve" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 31:24

General Information:

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Psalms 32

Psalms 32:intro-0

Psalm 032 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 32 is a psalm of confession of sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/confess.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Confession of sin

This psalm tells of the sorrow of unconfessed sin; it also tells of the blessing of confession and of receiving God's forgiveness. It is such a blessing when God forgives sin. Trouble comes when sin is hidden and not confessed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/forgive.md]])

Psalms 32:1

General Information:

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music.

whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered

These phrases have similar meanings. They can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "who God forgives his transgression and covers his sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

whose sin is covered

Here sin that is forgiven is spoken of as if it were covered so that it can not be seen. Alternate translation: "whose sin is ignored" or "whose sin is deliberately forgotten" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 32:2

to whom Yahweh reckons no guilt

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom Yahweh sees as innocent" or "who is not guilty according to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in whose spirit there is no deceit

Here "spirit" refers to the person. Alternate translation: "in whom there is not deceit" or "who is completely honest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 32:3

my bones were wasting away

Here "my bones" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "I was wasting away" or "I was getting weaker" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

all day long

This idiom means "continually." Alternate translation: "all the time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 32:4

day and night

These extremes include everything in between. Alternate translation: "all the time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

your hand was heavy upon me

Here "hand" refers to Yahweh. The entire phrase is an idiom that means "you afflicted me." Alternate translation: "you made me suffer greatly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

My strength withered as in summer drought

David's strength is compared to a small, green plant that turns brown and crumbles in the dry season. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 32:5

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Psalms 32:6

at a time of great distress

"when they are in great trouble."

When the surging waters overflow, the waters will not reach them

Difficulties are spoken of as if they were a flood of water. Alternate translation: "Then when difficulties come like a flood of water, those people will be safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 32:7

You are my hiding place

Yahweh is spoken of as if he was a safe place from the attacks of the writer's enemies. Alternate translation: "You are like a place where I can hide myself from my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You will surround me with the songs of victory

This metaphor apparently means that Yahweh's protection of the writer is the cause for songs of victory to be sung. Alternate translation: "Because of you I will sing songs of victory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 32:8

I will instruct you and teach you in the way

The words "instruct" and "teach" mean basically the same thing and emphasize careful instruction. Alternate translation: "I will teach you everything about the way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

I will instruct

Here the "I" is probably Yahweh who talks directly to David.

in the way which you should go

Living in the correct way is spoken of as if it were a path that the writer should walk. Alternate translation: "how you should live your life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with my eye upon you

Here "my eye" refers to Yahweh's attention. Alternate translation: "and direct my attention to you" or "and watch over you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 32:9

Do not be like a horse ... no understanding

The writer compares people with no understanding to horses and mules. Possible meanings are 1) the writer is speaking Yahweh's words to his readers, "You all must not be like a horse ... no understanding" or 2) Yahweh is speaking to the writer as though to a group of people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

bridle and bit

Two tools that are used by people to guide horses and mules go where the rider wants them to go.

where you want them to

"where anyone wants them to go." The "you" here is singular and refers to no one in particular.

Psalms 32:10

Yahweh's covenant faithfulness will surround the one who trusts in him

Yahweh being faithful to a person and protecting that person is spoken of as if Yahweh's covenant faithfulness surrounded the person. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Because Yahweh is faithful to his covenant, he will protect the one who trusts in him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 32:11

Be glad in Yahweh

Here "in Yahweh" refers to what Yahweh has done for them. "Be glad because of what Yahweh has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

you righteous

This refers to people. Alternate translation: "you righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

shout for joy

"shout joyfully" or "shout because of joy"

who are upright in heart

Here "heart" refers to the person. Alternate translation: "people who are upright" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 33

Psalms 33:intro-0

Psalm 033 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 33 is a worship song. It tells how great God is.

Special concepts in this chapter

# God's power

God is the creator and also the God of his people, Israel. Whatever he plans works out. He alone provides safety in battle.

Psalms 33:1

General Information:

Rejoice in Yahweh

Here "in Yahweh" refers to what Yahweh has done for them. "Rejoice because of what Yahweh has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

praise is appropriate for the upright

"to praise Yahweh is appropriate for upright people"

Psalms 33:2

General Information:

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Psalms 33:3

General Information:

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Psalms 33:4

General Information:

Each verse consists of two lines that have very similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Yahweh's word is upright

Here "upright" is used as a metaphor for something that is true. Alternate translation: "Yahweh always does what he says that he will do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 33:5

He loves righteousness and justice

These abstract nouns can be stated as actions. Alternate translation: "He loves doing what is right and just" or "He loves those who do what is right and just" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

The earth is full of Yahweh's covenant faithfulness

People everywhere in the world being able to see evidence of Yahweh's covenant faithfulness is spoken of as if his covenant faithfulness filled the earth. The abstract noun "covenant faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "People everywhere on earth can see that Yahweh is faithful to his covenant" or "Throughout the earth, there is evidence that Yahweh is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 33:6

By the word of Yahweh the heavens were made

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "By using his word, Yahweh made the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

by the breath of his mouth

This refers to Yahweh's word. Alternate translation: "by his word" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 33:7

General Information:

Each verse consists of two lines that have very similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

like a heap

"like behind a dam." The writer describes the creation of the sea as if God piles up all the waters together. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

he puts the oceans in storehouses

The writer describes the creation of the oceans as if God put them in a storehouse. Alternate translation: "he puts the oceans in their place, just like a man puts grain in a storehouse" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 33:8

Let the whole earth

This refers to the people on the earth. Alternate translation: "Let everyone on earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

stand in awe of him

Here "stand in awe" is an idiom that means "be in awe." Alternate translation: "honor him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 33:9

stood in place

Here "stood in place" is an idiom that means "was created." Alternate translation: "started to exist" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 33:10

General Information:

Each verse consists of two lines that have very similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Yahweh frustrates

"Yahweh destroys" or "Yahweh breaks"

the alliances of nations

Here "nations" refers to the people of these nations. Alternate translation: "the alliances of the people of different nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

alliances

An alliance is an agreement between two or more nations to support each other in a war against a common enemy.

the plans of the peoples

"the intentions of the peoples" Alternate translation: "the evil plans of the peoples"

Psalms 33:11

stand forever

Here "stand" is an idiom that means "endure." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the plans of his heart for all generations

The missing term "stand" is implied. Alternate translation: "the plans of his heart stand for all generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the plans of his heart

Here "his heart" refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "his plans" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

for all generations

"for all future generations." This is an idiom that means "forever." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 33:12

Blessed is the nation

Here "the nation" refers to the people of the nation. Alternate translation: "Blessed are the people of the nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

whose God is Yahweh

"who worship Yahweh as God"

as his own inheritance

The people Yahweh has chosen to worship him are described here as if they were an inheritance that he has received. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 33:13

General Information:

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Psalms 33:14

he looks down

The place where Yahweh lives is spoken of as if it is above the earth where people live. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 33:15

shapes the hearts of them all

Here "hearts" refers to the thinking of these people. The writer speaks of Yahweh guiding the thinking of the people as if he were a potter who was shaping a bowl. Alternate translation: "guides their thinking as a potter shapes a bowl" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 33:16

No king is saved by a vast army

This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "A large army is not what saves a king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 33:17

A horse is a false hope for victory

Here "a horse" represents the strongest part of the army. Alternate translation: "Having an army with strong horses does not provide security" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 33:18

See

This word shows that a new theme begins in this Psalm. Alternate translation: "Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

Yahweh's eye

Here "eye" refers to Yahweh's attention. Alternate translation: "Yahweh's attention" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

those who hope in his covenant faithfulness

The idiom to "count on" means to "wait for" or to "expect." The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adverb. Alternate translation: "those who expect him to act faithfully because of his covenant" or "those who wait for him to act because he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 33:19

to deliver their lives from death

Here "their lives" refers to the people. Alternate translation: "to keep them from dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 33:20

We wait for Yahweh

Here "wait" is an idiom that refers to trust. Alternate translation: "We trust in Yahweh" or "We hope in Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he is our help and our shield

Here Yahweh is spoken of as if he is a shield that protects soldiers in battle. Alternate translation: "he is our helper and protects us like a shield" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 33:21

Our hearts rejoice

Here "hearts" refer to the people. Alternate translation: "We rejoice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

in his holy name

Here "holy name" refers to Yahweh's holy character. Alternate translation: "in his holy character" or "in him because he is holy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 33:22

Let your covenant faithfulness, Yahweh, be with us

Yahweh acting faithfully towards the people is spoken of as if Yahweh's covenant faithfulness were with them. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adverb. Alternate translation: "May you always act faithfully towards us because of your covenant, Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

as we put our hope in you

"as we hope for your help"

Psalms 34

Psalms 34:intro-0

Psalm 034 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 34 is a teaching psalm and includes thanksgiving. It teaches that living right leads to a good life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/life.md]])

The psalm does not relate directly to the superscription given about Abimelech.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

Good people can have problems, but God brings them through these. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]])

Psalms 34:1

General Information:

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

pretended to be insane

"acted like a crazy person"

before Abimelech

This refers to a specific historical event that the Hebrews knew well. Alternate translation: "when he was in Abimelech's house" or "when he was Abimelech's prisoner" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

his praise will always be in my mouth

Here "in my mouth" refers to David speaking about Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I will always praise him out loud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 34:2

the oppressed

This refers to people who are oppressed. Alternate translation: "the oppressed people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 34:3

Praise Yahweh with me

The verb "praise" is a command to a group. Alternate translation: "Everyone should praise Yahweh with me"

lift up his name

Here "lift up" is an idiom that refers to exalting Yahweh. Alternate translation: "tell people how great he is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

his name

Here "his name" refers to Yahweh's character. Alternate translation: "his character" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 34:4

I sought Yahweh

Here "sought Yahweh" means David was asking Yahweh for help. Alternate translation: "I prayed to Yahweh" or "I asked Yahweh for help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 34:5

Those who look to him

Here "look to" represents seeking help from him. Alternate translation: "Those who look at him for help" or "those who expect help only from him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

are radiant

This idiom refers to their appearance as being joyful. Alternate translation: "are joyful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

their faces are not ashamed

Here "their faces" refers to the people who look to Yahweh. It can also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "they are not ashamed" or "they are proud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 34:6

This oppressed man

David describes himself as an oppressed man. Alternate translation: "I was oppressed and" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Yahweh heard him

Here "heard" means that Yahweh helped him. Alternate translation: "Yahweh heard me" or "Yahweh helped him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 34:7

camps around

The angel of Yahweh is spoken of as if he were an army that camps around someone in order to protect them. Alternate translation: "guards" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 34:8

Taste and see that Yahweh is good

Yahweh's goodness is spoken of as something that can be tasted and seen. Alternate translation: "Try and experience that Yahweh is good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

takes refuge

Yahweh is spoken of as if he were a place where people can hide for protection from their enemies. Alternate translation: "trust him to protect them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 34:9

There is no lack for those who fear him

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Those who fear him will always have what they need" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 34:10

will not lack anything good

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "will always have the good things they need" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 34:11

sons

Here this does not refer to literal sons of the writer, but to the people he is teaching about Yahweh. Alternate translation: "my students"

Psalms 34:12

What man is there who desires life and loves many days, that he may see good?

The implicit answer to this question is "every man." This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Every man desires life and desires to live many days and have a good life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 34:13

keep your tongue from evil ... keep your lips from speaking lies

These two phrases refer to the same thing and it is said in different ways to emphasize its importance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Then keep your tongue from evil

Here "tongue" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "Therefore, do not speak evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

keep your lips from speaking lies

Here "lips" refers to the person speaking. Alternate translation: "do not speak lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 34:14

Turn away from evil

Here "Turn away" is a metaphor for avoiding evil. Alternate translation: "Refuse to do evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Seek peace

Here "seek" means to be concerned about peace. Alternate translation: "Try hard to live in peace with other people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 34:15

The eyes of Yahweh are on the righteous

Here "the eyes of Yahweh" refer to his careful watching. "The righteous" is a reference to righteous people. Alternate translation: "Yahweh carefully watches over the righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

his ears are directed toward their cry

Here Yahweh is represented by his "ears." To be directed toward something means to pay attention to it. Alternate translation: "he pays attention to their cry" or "he answers their cry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 34:16

to cut off the memory of them from the earth

Yahweh will cause people to so completely forget them when they die that it is as if he used a knife to cut off any memory of them. Alternate translation: "so that when they are dead, people will forget them completely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 34:17

Yahweh hears

Here "hears" means that Yahweh desires to respond to them. Alternate translation: "Yahweh pays attention to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 34:18

Yahweh is close

Here "is close" means "ready to help." Alternate translation: "Yahweh is always ready to help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the brokenhearted

This is a nominal adjective that refers to people who are brokenhearted. Deep sadness is spoken of as if the person's heart is broken. Alternate translation: "people who are very sad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

those who are crushed in spirit

People who are deeply discouraged are spoken of as if their spirits are crushed. Alternate translation: "people who are deeply discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 34:19

the righteous

This refers to people who are righteous. Alternate translation: "the righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 34:20

He keeps all his bones, not one of them will be broken

Here "all his bones" is literal, but it also implies that Yahweh takes care of the entire person. Alternate translation: "He provides complete protection for him, he will not be harmed in any way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 34:21

Evil will kill the wicked

Evil is described as if it were a man who can kill people. Alternate translation: "The evil deeds of wicked people will kill them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the wicked

This refers to wicked people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Those who hate the righteous will be condemned

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will condemn those who hate the righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the righteous

This refers to righteous people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 34:22

None of those who take refuge in him will be condemned

This can be stated in active form. It can also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will forgive everyone who takes refuge in him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

take refuge in him

Psalms 35

Psalms 35:intro-0

Psalm 035 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 35 is a prayer for deliverance. His enemies are coming against him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Enemies

When his enemies were sick, he tried to comfort them, but when he was in trouble his enemies use this as a time to attack him.

Psalms 35:1

General Information:

Psalms 35:2

Grab your small shield and large shield

The writer describes God as a warrior who is preparing himself for battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

small shield and large shield

these are defensive weapons

Psalms 35:3

Use your spear and battle ax

The writer describes God as a warrior who is preparing himself for battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

spear and battle ax

these are offensive weapons

those who chase me

Possible meanings are 1) these enemies are literally chasing the writer or 2) this is a metaphor for people who are enemies of the writer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

say to my soul

This refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "say to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I am your salvation

This can be stated without the abstract noun. Alternate translation: "I am your savior" or "I will save you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 35:4

May those who seek my life be shamed and dishonored

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh shame and dishonor those who seek my life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

May those

"I desire that"

who seek my life

Here "seek my life" means they desire to kill the writer. The writer is represented by his "life." Alternate translation: "who are trying to kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

May those who plan to harm me be turned back and confounded

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh turn back and confound those who plan to harm me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

be turned back

"be turned back" here is a metaphor for being unable to accomplish their goal. Alternate translation: "be unsuccessful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

confounded

"confused"

Psalms 35:5

as chaff before the wind

The writer's enemies are spoken of as if they are chaff that is easily blown away. Alternate translation: "blown away by the wind like chaff" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 35:6

their way

Here "their way" refers to their lives. Alternate translation: "their lives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

dark and slippery

This refers to a way that is hidden and dangerous. Alternate translation: "hidden and full of dangers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

chases them

This refers to the angel of Yahweh being opposed to the writer's enemies. Alternate translation: "works against them" or "opposes them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 35:7

they set their net for me

The schemes of the wicked are spoken of as if they were a net that they set to catch the writer. Alternate translation: "they want to catch me in a net like a small animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they dug a pit for my life

The schemes of the wicked are spoken of as if they were a pit that they dug to catch the writer. Alternate translation: "they wanted to capture me in a pit like a big animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my life

This refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 35:8

Let destruction overtake them by surprise

Destruction is spoken of as if it was a dangerous animal that would suddenly attack them. Alternate translation: "Let them be destroyed suddenly" or "Let them be surprised because you destroy them suddenly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the net that they have set

The schemes of the wicked are spoken of as if they were a net that they place to catch the writer. Alternate translation: "the net that they placed in order to capture me like an animal and harm me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Let them fall into it

This is the same metaphor as in verse 7. The net is intended to catch the writer. Alternate translation: "Let them fall into the pit that they dug for me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

fall into it

Possible meanings are 1) fall into the pit of verse 7 or 2) fall into destruction.

to their destruction

The abstract noun "destruction" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "so that they will be destroyed" or "that is how you should destroy them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 35:9

in his salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "because you save me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 35:10

All my bones

Here "bones" refers to the deepest inner being of a person. Alternate translation: "My whole inner being" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Yahweh, who is like you ... those who try to rob them?

The implicit answer to this question is that no one is like Yahweh. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, there is no one like you ... those who try to rob them." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the poor and needy

The words "poor" and "needy" mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh saves many who need his help. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 35:11

rise up

This means they testify in a trial. Alternate translation: "volunteer to give a testimony" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 35:12

They repay me evil for good

This is a metaphor which means they give back evil in exchange for the good they have received. Alternate translation: "In return for my doing good things for them, they do evil things to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

evil ... good

These abstract nouns can be stated in other forms. Alternate translation: "evil things ... good things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

I am sorrowful

"I am extremely sad"

Psalms 35:13

when they were sick

The word "they" refers to the "unrighteous witnesses" (Psalms 35:11).

I wore sackcloth

"I showed that I was sad"

with my head bowed on my chest

This was a symbol of prayer. "with my head bent down in prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 35:14

in grief as for my brother

The writer was as sad as if his own brother had died. Alternate translation: "grieving as if my own brother was ill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I bent down in mourning as for my mother

The writer mourned as if his own mother had died. Alternate translation: "I mourned as if my own mother had died" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I bent down

This was a symbol of pain and suffering. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 35:15

gathered together

"assembled together" or "came together"

against me

This means they came together for the purpose of attacking the writer. Alternate translation: "to make plans against me" or "to plan my destruction" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

They tore at me

Here the treated the writer as if he were a piece of cloth that they could tear to pieces. Alternate translation: "They attacked me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 35:16

With no respect at all they mocked me

"With the worthless people they ridiculed me" or 2) "Without respect they made fun of me"

they grind their teeth at me in rage

This is a sign of anger and hate. "they made grinding noises with their teeth at me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 35:17

how long will you look on?

This rhetorical question indicates that the writer wants God to stop simply looking on and to start to help him. Alternate translation: "how long will you only watch them doing this?" or "when will you help me?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Rescue my soul

Here "soul" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "Rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

my life from the lions

The word "save" is implied. Alternate translation: "save my life from the lions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

my life

This refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

from the lions

Here the writer speaks of his enemies as if they were vicious lions. Alternate translation: "from my enemies who attack me like wild animals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 35:18

General Information:

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Psalms 35:19

Do not let my deceitful enemies

"Do not let my enemies, who tell lies about me,"

their wicked schemes

"their evil plans"

Psalms 35:20

they do not speak peace

The abstract noun "peace" can be stated as "peacefully." Alternate translation: "they do not speak peacefully to people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

devise deceitful words

"look for ways to tell lies"

those in our land who live in peace

"those who live peacefully in our land"

live in peace

The abstract noun "peace" can be stated in other forms. Alternate translation: "live peacefully with others" or "do no harm to anyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 35:21

They open their mouths wide against me

The reason they open their mouths is to accuse the writer. Alternate translation: "They shout at me in order to accuse me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Aha, Aha

This is something an excited person says when he has suddenly seen or understood something, especially something other people did not expect him to see. It emphasizes the statement that follows. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

our eyes have seen it

Here "our eyes" refers to the enemies' eyes. It is implied that they are saying they saw the writer do something wrong. Alternate translation: "we have seen it" or "we saw the wrong things that you did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 35:22

You have seen it

Here "it" refers to the false accusations of the writer's enemies. Alternate translation: "You have seen how they falsely accused me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

do not be silent

"do not ignore what they did" This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "judge them because of what they did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

do not be far from me

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "be very close to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 35:23

Arouse yourself and awake

This does not mean that God is actually asleep. The writer wants God to intervene. Both words mean basically the same thing and emphasize the urgency of this request. Alternate translation: "I feel like you are sleeping! Wake up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

to my defense

This abstract noun "defense" can be stated as "defend." Alternate translation: "to defend me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my cause

This refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 35:24

do not let them rejoice over me

"do not let them be glad because I am suffering"

Psalms 35:25

say in their heart

This is an idiom that means to say to oneself. Alternate translation: "say to themselves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Aha

This is an exclamation that is used when something is suddenly seen or understood. It emphasizes what follows. Alternate translation: "Yes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

we have what we wanted

It is implied that the writer's enemies wanted him to be declared guilty. Alternate translation: "he has been declared guilty just as we desired" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

We have devoured him

The writer's enemies speak of his destruction as if they were wild animals who had eaten him. Alternate translation: "We have swallowed him up" or "We have destroyed him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 35:26

May they be put to shame and may they be confounded who rejoice at my distress

"May those who rejoice at my distress be put to shame and confounded"

May they be put to shame

"May they feel shame"

may they be confounded

"may they be confused" or "may they be humiliated"

May those who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and dishonor

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May you clothe with shame and dishonor those who exalt themselves over me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

exalt themselves over me

"consider themselves better than I am" or "think they have the right to treat me badly"

clothed with shame and dishonor

Here shame and dishonor are spoken of as if they were shameful clothes that the writer could wear. These abstract nouns can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: "shamed and dishonored" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

shame and dishonor

These terms mean about the same thing and are used to emphasize how degraded they will be. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 35:27

my vindication

Here "vindication" refers to Yahweh proclaiming or judging the psalmist innocent.

may they say continually

"may they always say"

Yahweh be praised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Let us praise Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

who delights in

"who is happy with" or "who is glad for"

welfare

well-being, happiness

Psalms 35:28

tell of your justice

The abstract noun "justice" can be stated as "right." Alternate translation: "proclaim that you act in the right way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 36

Psalms 36:intro-0

Psalm 036 General Notes

Formatting in this chapter

Psalm 36 is a psalm of praise. It speaks of how good God is to those who love him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/love.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# God and man

Evil people do not think about God; but he is such a pleasure to all who honor him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Psalms 36:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

An evil man

This does not refer to a specific man, but to evil people in general. Alternate translation: "Evil people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

from deep in his heart

Here "heart" refers to the inner being of a person. Alternate translation: "from his inner being" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in his eyes

Here "eyes" refers to the wicked person. Alternate translation: "in him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 36:2

he comforts himself, thinking

"he prefers to believe" or "he wants to think"

his sin will not be discovered and be hated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will not discover and hate his sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 36:3

His words are

"What he says is"

do good

"do things that are good"

Psalms 36:4

he sets out on an evil way

The sinful actions of the man are spoken of as if he was walking along a path that was evil. Alternate translation: "he begins to do evil things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he does not reject evil

Here "evil" can be stated in another form. Alternate translation: "he does not reject evil behavior" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 36:5

Your covenant faithfulness ... reaches to the heavens

The greatness of God's covenant faithfulness is spoken of as if it were an object that reached as high as the heavens. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Your covenant faithfulness ... is very great" or "You ... are as faithful to your covenant as the heavens are high above the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

reaches to the clouds

The greatness of God's loyalty is spoken of as if it was very high. Alternate translation: "is as high as the clouds" or "is enormously great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 36:6

like the mountains of God ... like the great deep

These phrases describe the greatness of God's righteousness and judgments as if they were very high and deep. Alternate translation: "as high as the highest mountains ... as deep as the deepest sea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

you preserve

"you help" or "you save"

Psalms 36:7

How precious is your covenant faithfulness

The word "precious" refers to how greatly the writer values Yahweh's covenant faithfulness. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "I greatly value how you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 36:8

They feast upon the abundance of your house

Eating much food as guests in a house is a metaphor for God providing all his people need. Alternate translation: "They will have all they need because you will provide it to them" or "You have plenty to give, and you will provide them with all they need" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you let them drink from the river of your delights

There are two metaphors here. God's abundant blessings are spoken of as if they are the water in a flowing river. Also, those who receive those blessings are spoken of as if they are drinking them like water. Alternate translation: "your precious blessings are like a river from which you will let them drink" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 36:9

fountain of life

"source of life"

in your light we will see light

Here "light" is a metaphor for true knowledge. Alternate translation: "when you enlighten us, we will know the truth" or "your light is what enables us to know the truth about you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 36:10

Extend your covenant faithfulness fully to those who know you

The writer speaks of Yahweh continuing to act faithfully towards the people as if Yahweh were to extend his covenant faithfulness or make it longer. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adverb. Alternate translation: "Continue to act faithfully to those who know you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your defense to the upright of heart

The abstract noun "defense" can be stated as a verb. "Continue" is implied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "Continue to protect the upright of heart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the upright of heart

Here "heart" refers to the people. Alternate translation: "the upright" or "people who act righteously" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 36:11

the foot of the arrogant man ... the hand of the wicked

Here "foot" and "hand" refer to the evil people. These are not specific men. This refers to evil people in general. Alternate translation: "arrogant people ... wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

drive me away

"send me away" or "make me leave my place"

Psalms 36:12

evildoers have fallen; they are knocked down and are not able to get up

All three phrases describe the evildoers as defeated. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they are knocked down

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you have knocked them down" or "you have destroyed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

are not able to get up

"cannot get up"

Psalms 37

Psalms 37:intro-0

Psalm 037 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 37 is a teaching psalm. It provides guidance about how to live a moral and God-fearing life. It teaches that evil people do not prosper in the future. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Envy

Do not envy evil people. Although it appears as though they prosper, soon they will be destroyed and the good people will continue on living. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/life.md]])

Psalms 37:1

General Information:

Do not be irritated because of evildoers

"Do not let wicked people upset you" or "Do not be bothered by what wicked people do"

Psalms 37:2

dry up as the grass ... wither as the green plants

Evildoers are spoken of as if they are grass and plants that dry up and die in the hot weather. These two similes both mean they will die. Alternate translation: "die" or "come to an end" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 37:3

graze in faithfulness

Faithfulness is spoken of as if it was an animal that would be strengthened by feeding in good pasture. Alternate translation: "nourish faithfulness" or "increase your faithfulness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 37:4

the desires of your heart

Here "heart" represents the person's inner being and thoughts. Alternate translation: "your deepest, inner desires" or "the things that you desire the most" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 37:5

Give your ways to Yahweh

Here "give your ways" is an idiom that means to ask Yahweh to control your life. Alternate translation: "Ask Yahweh to guide your actions in life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

act on your behalf

This is to represent another in legal issues. Here, when one trusts in Yahweh, he will defend that person and grant justice to that person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 37:6

like the daylight ... like the day at noon

Both of these phrases mean about the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

like the daylight

This means "in full view of everyone." Alternate translation: "as clear to see as the light of day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like the day at noon

This means "as visible as the noon sun." Alternate translation: "as visible as the light at the brightest time of day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 37:7

Be still

"Be quiet"

Psalms 37:8

General Information:

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Psalms 37:9

will be cut off

The destruction of the wicked is spoken of as if they were a branch of a plant that was cut off and thrown away. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

but those who wait for Yahweh

"but those who trust in Yahweh"

will inherit the land

The possession of the land is spoken of as if it will be received as an inheritance. Alternate translation: "will receive the land as their own possession" or "will live safely in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 37:10

will disappear

This idiom refers to the death of the evil man. Alternate translation: "will die and you will no longer see him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 37:11

the meek

This refers to the people who are meek. Alternate translation: "the meek people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

will inherit the land

The possession of the land is spoken of as if it will be received as an inheritance. See how you translated this in Psalms 37:9. Alternate translation: "will receive the land as their own possession" or "will live safely in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 37:12

The wicked man

This does not refer to a specific man. It refers to wicked people in general. Alternate translation: "The wicked person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

the righteous

This does not refer to specific people. This refers to people who are righteous. Alternate translation: "the righteous person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

grinds his teeth

The wicked man hates the righteous person so much that he grinds his teeth together to show his anger. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-symlanguage/01.md]])

Psalms 37:13

his day is coming

It is implied that "his day" will be a day of judgment. Alternate translation: "the day is coming when Yahweh will judge and punish him" or "the day is coming when Yahweh will judge and punish the wicked person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 37:14

The wicked

This refers to the wicked people. Alternate translation: "The wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

have drawn out their swords ... have bent their bows

Both "swords" and "bows" are weapons used to attack people. The fact that they are "drawn" and "bent" means they are ready to start attacking. Alternate translation: "have prepared their weapons in order to attack" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

to cast down

This destruction of the needy people is spoken of as if they were clay pots that would break into pieces when thrown down on the ground. Alternate translation: "to destroy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the oppressed and needy

These terms both refer to people who are powerless to defend themselves. Alternate translation: "people who are not able to resist them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 37:15

Their swords will pierce their own hearts

Swords are examples of weapons and "hearts" represent the people. To "pierce the heart" is an idiom that means "to kill." Alternate translation: "Their weapons will be turned against them and they will kill themselves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 37:16

Better is the little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked people

"It is better to be poor and righteous than to be wicked with great wealth"

Better is the little that the righteous has

The nominal adjective "the little" refers to few possessions. The nominal adjective "the righteous" refers to a righteous person. Alternate translation: "Better are the few possessions that a righteous person has" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the abundance

This refers to the wealth of the wicked people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 37:17

For the arms of the wicked people will be broken

Here "arms" represent the strength of the wicked people. Breaking their arms represents taking away their power. This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For Yahweh will remove the strength of the wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 37:18

watches over the blameless

To "watch over" means to protect someone. Here "the blameless" refers to the blameless people. Alternate translation: "protects the blameless people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

day by day

This is an idiom that means "continually." Alternate translation: "every day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 37:19

when times are bad

This phrase refers to disasters, such as famine. Alternate translation: "when calamities occur" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 37:20

Yahweh's enemies will be like the glory of the pastures

The writer compares Yahweh's enemies to the flowers blooming in the fields. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

be consumed and disappear in the smoke

The writer speaks of the destruction of the wicked as if they were weeds or wilted flowers in the field that are burned off after the harvest. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will destroy them as fire turns the weeds of the field into smoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 37:21

is generous and gives

These mean the same thing and emphasize the generosity of the righteous. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 37:22

Those who are blessed by God will inherit the land; those who are cursed by him will be cut off

This is a contrastive form of Parallelism. Those who are blessed by God in contrast to those who are cursed by God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Those who are blessed by God

This can be stated as active. Alternate translation: "Those whom God blesses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

will inherit the land

The possession of the land is spoken of as if it had been received as an inheritance. See how you translated this in Psalms 37:9. Alternate translation: "will receive the land as their own possession" or "will be allowed to live safely in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who are cursed by him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those whom Yahweh curses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

will be cut off

The destruction of the wicked is spoken of as if they were a branch of plant that was cut off and thrown away. See how you translated this in Psalms 37:9. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 37:23

It is by Yahweh that a man's steps are established ... commendable in God's sight

These can be stated to show the logical connection and clarify the passive clause. Alternate translation: "If a man lives in a commendable way in Yahweh's sight, Yahweh will establish his steps" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

It is by Yahweh that a man's steps are established

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is the one who enables a man to be successful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

a man ... the man

This does not refer to a specific man, but to people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

a man's steps

Steps represent the way a person lives. Alternate translation: "the way a man lives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 37:24

Though he stumbles, he will not fall down

Here "stumble" and "fall" refer to the man's reaction to difficult times. Alternate translation: "Though he has difficult times, he will not utterly fail" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

holding him with his hand

Here "his hand" refers to Yahweh's power, and "holding him" refers to protecting him. Alternate translation: "protecting him with his power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 37:25

the righteous person abandoned

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh forsake the righteous person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the righteous person

This does not refer to a specific person. It is a general statement. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

begging for bread

Here "bread" represents food in general. Alternate translation: begging for food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 37:26

All the day long he is

This idiom means this action is a habit of his life. Alternate translation: "He is always (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

his children become a blessing

"his children grow up to bless others"

Psalms 37:27

Turn away from

To stop doing something is spoken of as if the person turned away from it. Alternate translation: "Stop doing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 37:28

They are preserved forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will protect them forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

will be cut off

Psalms 37:29

will inherit the land

Psalms 37:30

the righteous

This refers to the people who are righteous. Alternate translation: "the righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

The mouth of the righteous person

Here "mouth" represents the whole person who speaks. Alternate translation: "The righteous person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

speaks wisdom

The abstract noun "wisdom" can be stated as "wise." Alternate translation: "gives wise advice to others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

increases justice

The abstract noun "justice" can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: "encourages other people to live rightly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 37:31

The law of his God is in his heart

Here "in his heart" refers to his deepest inner being. Alternate translation: "He treasures the commands of his God in his inner being" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his feet will not slip

Here failure to obey Yahweh is spoken of as slipping off a safe path and falling. Alternate translation: "he will walk safely in the way God wants him to walk" or "he will safely do the things God wants him to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 37:32

The wicked person ... the righteous person

These words refer to any wicked or righteous person or to wicked and righteous people in general, not to specific people. Alternate translation: "Wicked people ... righteous people" or "Any wicked person" or "any righteous person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

watches the righteous person

Here the watching implies observing the righteous in order to do them harm. Alternate translation: "waits in ambush for the righteous person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 37:33

the evil person's hand

These words refer to the hand of any evil person, not of any specific person. Here "hand" represents power or control. Alternate translation: "evil people's hands" or "the power of the evil person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

when he is judged

This refers to Yahweh judging the righteous man. Alternate translation: "When Yahweh judges him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 37:34

he will raise you up to possess the land

Here "raise you up" refers to God giving honor to those who wait for him. Alternate translation: "he will honor you by giving you the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the wicked

This refers to wicked people. Alternate translation: "the wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

are cut off

The destruction of the wicked is spoken of as if they were a branch of a plant that was cut off and thrown away. See how you translated a similar phrase in Psalms 37:9. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 37:35

the wicked and terrifying person

This does not refer to a specific person. It is a general statement. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

spread out like a green tree in its native soil

Here the prosperity of the wicked man is spoken of as if he were a healthy tree growing in good soil. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 37:36

he could not be found

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I could not find him" or "Yahweh had taken him away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 37:37

the man of integrity

This does not refer to a specific person. It is a general statement. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

mark the upright

"note carefully the good people" or "notice the good people"

Psalms 37:38

the future for the wicked man is cut off

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will end his family line" or "he will not have any descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the future

This refers to his descendants. Alternate translation: "his descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the wicked man

This does not refer to a specific person. It is a general statement. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

is cut off

Psalms 37:39

Salvation of the righteous comes from Yahweh

The abstract noun "Salvation" can be expressed as an action. Alternate translation: "Yahweh rescues the righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the righteous

This refers to the righteous people. Alternate translation: "the righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 37:40

helps ... rescues ... saves

This same idea is repeated in several different ways to emphasize that Yahweh is dependable and able to give aid. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

they have taken refuge in him

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "they have gone to him for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 38

Psalms 38:intro-0

Psalm 038 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 38 is a confession of sin and a prayer for deliverance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/confess.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Author's sickness

The author was very sick and his enemies were seeking ways to destroy him.

Psalms 38:1

General Information:

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

do not rebuke me in your anger ... do not punish me in your wrath

These phrases mean basically the same thing and the idea is repeated for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 38:2

your arrows pierce me

The severity of Yahweh's punishment of the writer is spoken of as if Yahweh had shot arrows into the writer. Alternate translation: "Your punishment is as painful as if you had shot arrows into me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your hand presses me down

Yahweh's punishment of the writer is spoken of as if Yahweh was smashing the writer with his hand. Here, "hand" refers to Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "your power knocks me down" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 38:3

General Information:

David continues describing what his guilt and shame does to his body. He uses hyperbole to emphasize the effects of this lesson.

there is no health in my bones because of my sin

Here "my bones" represents the body of the writer. Alternate translation: "my whole body is diseased because of my sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 38:4

my iniquities overwhelm me

The writer's iniquities are spoken of as if they are a flood of water that covers him. Alternate translation: "my iniquities cover me like a flood" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they are a burden too heavy for me

The writer's iniquities are spoken of as if they are a heavy load that he cannot lift. Alternate translation: "they are like a load that is too heavy for me to lift" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 38:5

General Information:

David continues describing what his guilt and shame does to his body. He uses hyperbole to emphasize the effects of this lesson.

My wounds are infected and smell

Here "smell" refer to his sores having a bad smell that is associated with rotting flesh. Alternate translation: "My wounds are infected and stink as they rot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 38:6

I am stooped over

The pain of the writer's wounds have caused him to be bent over as if he were an old, feeble man. Alternate translation: "I am bent over in pain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 38:7

I am filled with burning

The writer's is so sick with fever that it is as if he is burning inside. Alternate translation: "My body is burning with fever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

there is no health in my flesh

Here "my flesh" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "I am completely sick" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 38:8

utterly crushed

The writer's illness is so severe that it is as if a huge weight is pressing down on him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

anguish of my heart

Here "my heart" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "my anguish" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 38:9

my heart's deepest yearnings

Here "my heart" refers to the writer. It may be helpful to state that the writer desires good health. Alternate translation: "My strongest desires" or "that I desire you to heal me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

my groanings are not hidden from you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you are able to see all my moans of sorrow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 38:10

My heart pounds

This idiom means his heart beats intensely. Alternate translation: "My heart beats loudly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

my strength fades

"I become very weak"

my eyesight dims

"I can no longer see well"

Psalms 38:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 38:12

lay snares for me

The plots of the writer's enemies are spoken of as if they were traps that they had set to catch him like an animal. Alternate translation: "set traps to catch me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

speak destructive words and say deceitful words

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the hurtful nature of what these people say. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 38:13

I am like a deaf man ... hear nothing

The writer does not listen to what his enemies are saying. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I am like a mute man ... says nothing

The writer does not speak evil words to or about his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

a mute man

a person who cannot speak

Psalms 38:14

does not hear

The writer does not listen to what his enemies are saying. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

has no reply

The writer does not speak evil words to or about his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 38:15

you will answer

Possible meanings are 1) "you will answer me" or 2) "you will answer my enemies."

Psalms 38:16

will not gloat over me

"will not delight over my trouble"

If my foot slips

Here "my foot" represents the writer. The slipping of his foot is a metaphor that refers to the writer's troubles and misfortunes. Alternate translation: "If I make mistakes that cause me trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 38:17

I am about to stumble

Possible meanings for this metaphor are 1) "I am so sick that I am about to die" or 2) "I will soon be ruined." It may be best not to interpret the metaphor in the text. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I am in constant pain

"I am always in pain"

Psalms 38:18

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 38:19

But my enemies are numerous ... are many

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 38:20

They repay me evil for good

The actions of the writer's enemies are spoken of as a financial transaction where they gave him evil things in exchange for good things. The abstract nouns "evil" and "good" can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "They do evil thing to me after I was good to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

hurl accusations at me

The way the writer's enemies accuse him is spoken of as if they were throwing accusations at him like rocks. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

pursued what is good

The writers desire for what is good is spoken of as if he were running after good things. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 38:21

Do not abandon me ... do not stay far away from me

These two phrases have very similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

do not stay far away from me

Because Yahweh has not yet answered the writer's request, he speaks of Yahweh as if Yahweh were standing far away from the writer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 38:22

Come quickly to help me

God is spoken of as if he is running to the writer to help him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: "you are the one who saves me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 39

Psalms 39:intro-0

Psalm 039 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 39 is a psalm of deliverance from sickness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Life

Life on earth is short. The psalmist wanted God's healing so he can enjoy the rest of his life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/life.md]])

This psalm shares some characteristics of another wisdom book called Ecclesiastes or Koheleth but is more positive.

Psalms 39:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship,"

Jeduthun

One of David's chief musicians had this same name. This may refer to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

I will watch what I say

Here "watch" is an idiom that mean "pay attention to." Alternate translation: "I will pay attention to the things that I say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

so that I do not sin with my tongue

Here "tongue" refers to the writer's speech. Alternate translation: "so that I do not speak an offense against Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

muzzle

To "muzzle" means to keep a mouth shut. Here David means that he will not speak while he is with an evil person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 39:2

I kept silent; I kept back my words

These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that the writer did not speak at all. Alternate translation: "I was completely silent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

I kept back my words

"I did not speak"

Psalms 39:3

My heart became hot ... it burned like a fire

Here "heart" represents the whole person. The anxious thoughts of the writer are spoken of as if they were a fire burning inside him. Alternate translation: "I became very anxious when I thought about these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 39:4

the end of my life ... the extent of my days

These phrases mean basically the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Show me how transient I am

"Show me how brief my life is" or "Show me how soon I will die"

Psalms 39:5

only the width of my hand

The writer speaks of his lifespan is if it could be measured by the width of his hand. Alternate translation: "only a very short time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my lifetime is like nothing before you

This simile states that the length of the writer's life is so short that it does not exist. This is an exaggeration to stress how short it is. Alternate translation: "the length of my life is barely any time at all" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Surely every man is a single breath

Life is short, and the psalmist speaks of it here as if it were only as long as the time it takes for a person to breathe one breath. Alternate translation: "The time that humans live is as short as a single breath of a person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 39:6

Surely every man walks about like a shadow

The lives of people are spoken of as if they are as insignificant as shadows. Alternate translation: "Everyone disappears like shadows do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

although they do not know who will receive them

Here it is implied that they do not know what will happen to their wealth after they die. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 39:7

Now, Lord, for what am I waiting?

The writer asks this question to emphasize that people cannot help him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "So now, Yahweh, I can expect to receive nothing from anyone else." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 39:8

General Information:

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Psalms 39:9

I am silent ... cannot open my mouth

These phrases mean basically the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

because it is you who has done it

"because my punishment comes from you"

Psalms 39:10

Stop wounding me

God's punishment of the writer is spoken of as if God was wounding him with a weapon. Alternate translation: "Please stop punishing me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I am overwhelmed

"I am defeated completely"

the blow of your hand

God's punishment of the writer is spoken of as if God was striking him with his fist. Here "hand" represents God's judgment. Alternate translation: "your judgment on me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 39:11

consume the things they desire like a moth

God will take away the things they value in the same way as a moth eats a piece of cloth. Alternate translation: "consume the things they desire like a moth eats away at clothing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

all people are nothing but vapor

The writer speaks of the frailty of people as if they were mist that disappears quickly. Alternate translation: "everyone is completely fragile" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 39:12

Hear my prayer ... listen to me ... listen to my weeping

These three phrases mean basically the same thing and show how strongly the writer wants God to respond to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Do not be deaf to me

The writer speaks of Yahweh's lack of response to him as if Yahweh was deaf. Alternate translation: "Do not ignore me as if you could not hear me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I am like a foreigner with you, a refugee

The writer speaks of Yahweh's lack of response as if Yahweh considered him to be a total stranger to him. Alternate translation: "I am like a complete stranger to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 39:13

Turn your gaze from me

Here "your gaze" represents Yahweh's punishment. Alternate translation: "Please stop punishing me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

so that I may smile again

Here "smile" is associated with being happy. Alternate translation: "so that I can be happy again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 40

Psalms 40:intro-0

Psalm 040 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 40 is a psalm of praise. Many also see it as a messianic psalm, a psalm about Christ. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Sacrifices

God is not interested in sacrifices but wants people to obey him and fulfill his plans for them.

Psalms 40:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

I waited patiently for Yahweh

This means the writer was waiting for Yahweh to help him.

he listened to me ... heard my cry

These mean the same thing, and can be combined into one statement. Alternate translation: "he listened to me when I called out to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 40:2

out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay

These two metaphors mean the same thing. The writer's danger is spoken of as if it was a deadly pit full of mud. This emphasizes the danger. Alternate translation: "from being trapped in a horrible pit full of sticky mud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he set my feet on a rock

Here "my feet" refers to the writer, and "a rock" refers a place of safety. Alternate translation: "he provided safety for me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 40:3

He has put a new song in my mouth

Possible meanings are 1) "He has taught me the words to a new song" or 2) "He has given me a new reason to sing."

in my mouth

Here "my mouth" refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "in me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

praise to our God

The noun "praise" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "a song to praise our God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Many will see it

Here "see it" refers to hearing the writer sing his song about what God has done for him. Alternate translation: "Many people will hear me tell what Yahweh has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 40:4

Blessed is the man who makes Yahweh his trust

"Blessed is the man who trusts in Yahweh" or "Those who trust in Yahweh are blessed"

the proud

This refers to the people who are proud. Alternate translation: "proud people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

to lies

The Hebrew word is unclear. Possible meanings are 1) "lies" or 2) "false gods."

Psalms 40:5

your thoughts which are about us cannot be numbered

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one can count all the things you think about us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

cannot be numbered ... more than could be counted

These phrases mean essentially the same thing. The first is stated in negative form, and the second is stated in positive form. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 40:6

You have no delight in sacrifice or offering

This is an exaggeration to express that other things are much more important to God. Alternate translation: "Sacrifices and other offerings are not the things that delight you most" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

you have opened my ears

Here "ears" refers to the ability to hear. Alternate translation: "you have enabled me to hear your commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you have not required burnt offerings or sin offerings

This is an exaggeration to show that these things were not the most important to God. Alternate translation: "animals burned on the altar and other offerings for our sins are not what you require most" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 40:7

the scroll of the document

This refers to a scroll on which was written the word of Yahweh. Alternate translation: "the written scroll" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 40:8

your laws are in my heart

Here "my heart" refers to the inner being of the writer. Alternate translation: "I am always thinking about your laws within my inner being" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 40:9

I have proclaimed good news of your righteousness in the great assembly

"I have told a large assembly of people the good news of your righteousness."

good news of your righteousness

This refers to the good news that God rescues his people. Alternate translation: "good news that because you are righteous, you rescue your people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

my lips have not kept back from doing this

Here "my lips" represents the writer, emphasizing his speech. Alternate translation: "I have not stopped myself from proclaiming these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 40:10

I have not concealed your righteousness in my heart

"I have not kept your righteousness a secret." This can also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I have openly told every one about your righteousness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

in my heart

Here this refers to the writer's inner being. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I have not concealed your covenant faithfulness or your trustworthiness from the great assembly

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I have told everyone in the great assembly about your covenant faithfulness or your trustworthiness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as "faithful." Alternate translation: "how faithful you are to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your trustworthiness

This abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be stated as "trustworthy." Alternate translation: "how trustworthy you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 40:11

let your covenant faithfulness and your trustworthiness always preserve me

Here "covenant faithfulness" and "trustworthiness" are spoken of as if they were living people who could protect the writer. Alternate translation: "I want your covenant faithfulness and your trustworthiness to always preserve" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 40:12

Troubles that cannot be numbered surround me

Here troubles are spoken of as if they were objects that surround and trap the speaker. Alternate translation: "there are more troubles around me than I can count" or "more troubles come to me than I can count" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

that cannot be numbered

This is stated in negative form to intensify the number.See how you translated this in Psalms 40:5. Alternate translation: "that are vast in number" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

my iniquities

This refers to the consequences of his sin. Alternate translation: "the consequences of my iniquities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

have caught up with me

The writer's iniquities are spoken of as if they were his enemies who were harming him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

I am no longer able to see anything

Versions differ in how to understand this difficult passage. It may mean that the speaker is crying so much that he cannot see anything because of his tears.

my heart has failed me

Here "heart" refers to the writer's inner confidence. Alternate translation: "I am very discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 40:13

General Information:

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Psalms 40:14

Let them be ashamed and completely disappointed who pursue my life to take it away

This can be reordered and stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Let those who pursue my life to take it awy be ashamed and completely disappointed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Let them be ashamed and completely disappointed

"Please make them ashamed and completely disappointed"

who pursue my life to take it away

Here "pursue my life" means they desire to kill the writer. The writer is represented by his "life." Alternate translation: "who are trying to kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Let them be turned back and brought to dishonor, those who delight in hurting me

This can be reordered and stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Let those who delight in hurting me be turned back and brought to dishonor" or "Please have someone turn back those who delight in hurting me and bring them to dishonor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

turned back

"unable to continue"

Psalms 40:15

Let them be shocked because of their shame, those who say to me, "Aha, aha!"

"Let those who say to me, 'Aha, aha!' be shocked because of their shame"

Let them be shocked because of their shame

"I hope that they will be shocked when you shame them"

Aha, aha!

These words indicate that the speaker has seen the hearer doing evil that the hearer did not think anyone knew about. You can use here words in your language that mean the same thing but sound different. See how this is translated in Psalms 35:21. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

Psalms 40:16

rejoice and be glad

These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize the intensity of joy. Alternate translation: "be very joyful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

loves your salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: "love you because you saved them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 40:17

poor and needy

These words mean the same thing and emphasize how helpless the writer is. Alternate translation: "very needy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

the Lord thinks about me

"the Lord cares for me"

You are my help ... you come to my rescue

These phrases mean the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

You are my help

"You are the one who helps me"

you come to my rescue

"you come to save me"

do not delay

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "respond quickly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 41

Psalms 41:intro-0

Psalm 041 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 41 is a psalm of deliverance. The author's friends had become his enemies who wanted to see him die but he trusted God to rescue him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Enemies

The author's best friend had become an enemy. His enemies were happy because they were sure his sickness would result in death.

Psalms 41:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

he who is concerned for the weak ... rescue him

The words "he" and "him" refer to anyone who is concerned for the weak.

the weak

"weak people" or "poor people"

Psalms 41:2

he ... him ... his

These words refer to anyone who is concerned for the weak.

Psalms 41:3

Yahweh will support him on the bed of suffering

The phrase "the bed of suffering" refers to when a person lies in bed because he is sick. Alternate translation: "When he is sick and in bed, Yahweh will support him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you will make his bed of sickness into a bed of healing

The phrase "a bed of healing" refers to when a person rests in bed and recovers from his sickness. Alternate translation: "you, Yahweh, will heal him of his sickness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 41:4

General Information:

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Psalms 41:5

his name perish

If a person's name dies, it means that people forget that he had ever lived. Alternate translation: "when will his name perish" or "when will people forget about him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 41:6

If my enemy comes to see me

The words "my enemy" refers to any enemy in general, and not to one specific enemy.

he says worthless things

Possible meanings are 1) "he says meaningless things" or 2) his enemies say things to make him think that they are his friends when they are not. Alternate translation: "he says deceitful things" or "they pretend to be concerned about me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

his heart gathers up my disaster for itself

His enemies try to learn all of the bad things about him. Here the word "heart" refers the whole person. Bad circumstances are spoken of as if they were objects that can be gathered. Alternate translation: "he tries to learn about all of my disasters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 41:7

against me they hope for my hurt

Possible meanings are 1) "they hope that very bad things will happen to me" or 2) "they are planning to hurt me."

Psalms 41:8

An evil disease ... to him

His enemies speak of "disease" as if it were a person who has captured him. Alternate translation: "He is sick with a fatal disease" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

An evil disease

Possible meanings are 1) "A fatal disease" or 2) "Something evil"

now that he is lying down, he will rise up no more

Here the words "lying down" refer to lying in bed because of illness. That he will not "rise up" means that he will continue to lie down, which is a euphemism for death. Alternate translation: "now that he is sick in bed, he will die there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 41:9

has lifted up his heel against me

This is an idiom that means his friend betrayed him. Alternate translation: "has betrayed me" or "has turned against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 41:10

But you, Yahweh, have mercy on me and raise me up

This is a request. Alternate translation: "Please, Yahweh, have mercy on me and raise me up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-declarative/01.md]])

raise me up

This means to raise him up from his bed, or to make him recover from his disease. Alternate translation: "make me well" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

so that I may pay them back

The writer speaks of revenge on his enemies as if it were paying to them what he owes. Alternate translation: "so that I may take revenge on them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 41:11

By this I know that you delight in me, for my enemy does not triumph over me

The word "this" refers to what the writer will say next. For clarity, the clauses may be reversed. Alternate translation: "Because my enemy does not triumph over me, I know that you delight in me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-events/01.md]])

By this I know that you delight in me, for my enemy does not triumph over me

This can also be translated in future tense, since Yahweh has not yet healed him. Alternate translation: "If you enable me to do that, with the result that my enemies do not defeat me, I will know that you are pleased with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 41:12

you support me in my integrity

"you support me because of my integrity"

will keep me before your face

The writer speaks of being in Yahweh's presence as being in a place where Yahweh can see him and he can see Yahweh's face. Alternate translation: "will keep me with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 41:13

General Information:

This verse is more than the end of this psalm. It is the closing statement for all of Book 1 of the Psalms, which starts at Psalm 1 and ends with Psalm 41.

from everlasting to everlasting

This refers to two extremes and means for all time. Alternate translation: "for all eternity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Amen and Amen

The word "Amen" is repeated to emphasize approval of what has been said. Alternate translation: "May it certainly be so" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 42

Psalms 42:intro-0

Psalm 042 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 42 is a psalm of praise for all that God has done and a prayer for deliverance from the psalmist's enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's deliverance

The psalmist praises God as he remembers what God has done for him in the past, and he puts his trust in him. He needs rescuing from his enemies. Scholars believe that this psalm is about a man in exile longing for Jerusalem.

# Psalm 42 and Psalm 43

Some scholars believe that these two psalms were originally written together as one psalm.

# Superscription

This psalm is called "a Maschil of the sons of Korah." The word "Maschil" in the original language has caused scholars to have various opinions about its meaning. Some say it means to instruct, while others say that the word is referring to the skill used in creating the psalm. Still others think it means that meditation should be used in reading this psalm.

Psalms 42:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

As the deer pants after streams of water, so I thirst for you, God

The author compares his desire for God to the desire of a thirsty deer for water.

pants

heavy breathing from an animal or person that is very tired or thirsty

I thirst for you, God

The author speaks of his strong desire for God as if it were a strong thirst for water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 42:2

I thirst for God

The author speaks of his strong desire for God as if it were a strong thirst for water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

when will I come and appear before God?

The author does not ask this question to get an answer but to show his strong desire to be before God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 42:3

My tears have been my food

The author refers to his tears as if they are food that he eats. This means that he is so sad that he cannot eat. Alternate translation: "My tears are like my food and I eat nothing else" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

day and night

This phrase refers to the entire day by referring to both its beginning and end. Alternate translation: "all day long" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

my enemies are always saying to me

This is an exaggeration. His enemies are not saying this constantly; they are saying it often. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Where is your God?

The author's enemies use this question to mock him and to express that they do not see his God helping him. Alternate translation: "Your God is not here to help you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 42:4

call to mind

This is an idiom that means to remember or think about something. Alternate translation: "remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I pour out my soul

Here the word "soul" refers to the emotions. The author speaks of his soul as if it is a liquid that he pours out. The phrase means that he is expressing his emotional grief. Alternate translation: "I express my sorrow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the throng

"the crowd of people"

joy and praise

This phrase uses two different words to express one idea. Alternate translation: "joyful praise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

Psalms 42:5

Why are you bowed down, my soul? Why are you upset within me?

The author refers to his inner self as his "soul," which represents himself. He asks these questions to rebuke himself. Alternate translation: "I should not be bowed down. I should not be worried" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

bowed down

The writer speaks of depression or discouragement as if it were his soul being bent over. Alternate translation: "discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Hope in God

The writer continues to speak to his own soul and commands it to trust God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-imperative/01.md]])

Psalms 42:6

My God, my soul

The writer begins to speak to God about his soul.

I call you to mind

This phrase means to remember or to think about something. Alternate translation: "I think of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the land of the Jordan

This is probably a reference to northern Israel, where the Jordan river originates. Alternate translation: "the land where the Jordan river begins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

peaks

mountain tops

hill of Mizar

This is the name of a hill at the base of Mount Hermon. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 42:7

Deep calls to deep at the noise of your waterfalls

The word "deep" refers to deep waters, which here are likely the streams rushing down Mount Hermon. The writer speaks of them as if they are people calling out to one another as they hear the sound of their own descent from the mountain. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

all your waves ... have gone over me

The author speaks of his great misfortune and sadness as if they are deep waters that drown him with one wave after another. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your waves and your billows

The word "billows" is another word for "waves." Together the two words emphasize the greatness of the waves. Alternate translation: "all of your great waves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 42:8

Yahweh will command his covenant faithfulness in the daytime

The writer speaks of Yahweh's covenant faithfulness as if it were a person whom he commands to be with him. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will show me his covenant faithfulness in the daytime" or "Yahweh will show me in the daytime how faithful he is to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his song

Possible meanings are 1) "the song that he gives me" or "the song about him"

the God of my life

"the God who gives me life"

Psalms 42:9

I will say to God, my rock

The writer speaks of God as if he were a huge rock that would provide protection from enemy attack. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Why do I go mourning

To "go mourning" is to perform customs related to being very sad.

Psalms 42:10

As with a sword in my bones

The writer describes his adversaries' rebukes as his receiving a fatal wound. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they always say to me

This is an exaggeration; his enemies are not saying this constantly but are saying it often. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Where is your God?

The writer's enemies use this question to mock him and to express that they do not see God helping him. Alternate translation: "Your God is not here to help you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 42:11

Why are you bowed down, my soul? Why are you upset within me?

The author refers to his inner self as his "soul," which represents himself. He asks these questions to rebuke himself. See how you translated this in Psalms 42:5. Alternate translation: "I should not be bowed down, I should not be worried" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

bowed down

The writer speaks of depression or discouragement as if it were his soul being bent over. See how you translated this in Psalms 42:5. Alternate translation: "discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Hope in God

The writer continues to speak to his own soul and commands it to trust God. See how you translated this in Psalms 42:5. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-imperative/01.md]])

Psalms 43

Psalms 43:intro-0

Psalm 043 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 43 is a psalm of deliverance. It is a plea for rescue from the psalmist's enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Encouragement

The author should not be discouraged because he trusts in God to deliver him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

# Psalm 42 and Psalm 43

Some scholars believe that these two psalms were originally written together as one psalm.

Psalms 43:1

General Information:

Psalms 43:2

the God of my strength

Possible meanings are 1) "the God who protects me" or 2) "the God who gives me strength."

Why have you rejected me? Why do I go about in mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

The writer asks these questions in order to complain to God and express his emotions, not to receive an answer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Why do I go about in mourning

To "go about in mourning" is to perform customs related to being very sad.

because of the oppression of the enemy

The word "oppression" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "because my enemy oppresses me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 43:3

send out your light and your truth

The writer speaks of God's deliverance as if it were a light that shows him the way and truth that teaches him how to live. Alternate translation: "guide me with your light and truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

holy hill

This refers to the hill in Jerusalem where the temple is located and thus to the temple itself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to your dwelling

"to the place where you live"

Psalms 43:4

God my exceeding joy

"God who is my very great joy" or "God who gives me very great joy"

Psalms 43:5

Why are you bowed down, my soul? Why are you upset within me?

The author refers to his inner self as his "soul," which represents himself. He asks these questions to rebuke himself. See how you translated this in Psalms 42:5. Alternate translation: "I should not be bowed down. I should not be worried" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

bowed down

Hope in God

my salvation and my God

The phrase "my salvation" refers to God. If necessary the two phrases can be combined. Alternate translation: "my God who saves me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 44

Psalms 44:intro-0

Psalm 044 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 44 is a deliverance psalm. It is a prayer for God's help against enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Enemies

When Israel entered the Promised Land, God fought for them and drove out their enemies. Since their enemies have now defeated them, they are in need of God's help. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

# Superscription

This psalm is called "a Maschil." The word "Maschil" in the original language has caused scholars to have various opinions about its meaning. Some say it means to instruct, while others say that the word is referring to the skill used in creating the psalm. Still others think it means that meditation should be used in reading this psalm.

Psalms 44:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

A psalm of the sons of Korah

"This is a psalm that the sons of Korah wrote."

We have heard with our ears, God

The word "ears" adds emphasis to the statement that they have heard and understood the things that the writer is about to describe. The writer addresses this statement to God. Alternate translation: "God, we have heard clearly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in their days, in the days of old

Both of these phrases use the word "days" to refer to the time period when the ancestors of the people of Israel were alive. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 44:2

You drove out the nations

"You forced the people from other nations to leave"

with your hand

Here the word "hand" refers to God's power. Alternate translation: "by your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you planted our people

The writer speaks of God's causing the Israelites to live in the land as if he were planting them in the soil like he would a tree. Alternate translation: "you caused our people to live there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:3

by their own sword

The word "sword" refers to military power. Alternate translation: "by fighting with their own swords" or "by their own army's strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

their own arm

Here the word "arm" refers to power. Alternate translation: "their own power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the light of your face

You may supply a verb for this phrase. Alternate translation: "the light of your face obtained the land for their possession" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

your right hand, your arm

Here the words "hand" and "arm" both refer to God's power. Combined, they emphasize the greatness of God's power. Alternate translation: "your great power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

the light of your face

The writer speaks of Yahweh looking with favor upon them and being kind to them as if Yahweh's face shone a light on them. Alternate translation: "your kindness" or "your good favor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:4

victory for Jacob

The people of Israel are referred to by the name of their ancestor "Jacob." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 44:5

Through you ... through your

"By you ... by your"

push down ... tread them under ... rise up

The writer speaks of his enemies' defeat as if they are "down" and of their preparing to fight as if they are "up." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

through your name

Here the word "name" refers to God's power and authority. Alternate translation: "by your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

tread them under

"tread them under our feet" or "walk on top of them"

Psalms 44:6

General Information:

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Psalms 44:7

General Information:

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Psalms 44:8

we have made our boast

The word "boast" can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: "we have boasted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

we will give thanks to your name

Here the word "name" refers to God, himself. Alternate translation: "we will give thanks to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 44:9

thrown us off

The writer speaks of God's rejection of Israel as if he were discarding an unwanted piece of clothing. Alternate translation: "rejected us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:10

spoil

resources and treasures that an army collects after winning a battle

Psalms 44:11

You have made us like sheep to be slaughtered

The writer compares the Israelites to sheep that people kill and eat. As sheep are helpless before those who kill them, so the Israelites are helpless before their enemies. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "You have allowed our enemies to kill us like they would kill a sheep and eat it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

scattered us among the nations

"caused us to live in many different nations"

Psalms 44:12

sell your people for nothing

The writer speaks of Yahweh allowing Israel's enemies to conquer them as if he were selling the people of Israel to their enemies but does not require any payment from their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:13

You make us a rebuke to our neighbors, scoffed and mocked by those around us

These two phrases are parallel emphasizing how the people among whom they live mock them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

You make us a rebuke to our neighbors

The word "rebuke" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "You make us something that our neighbors rebuke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

scoffed and mocked by those around us

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those around us scoff at us and mock us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 44:14

an insult among ... a shaking of the head

These phrases are parallel emphasizing how intensely the nations around them mock them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

You make us an insult among the nations

The word "insult" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "You make the nations around us insult us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

a shaking of the head among the peoples

The phrase "a shaking of the head" can be translated in verbal form. Alternate translation: "something at which the peoples shake their heads" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

a shaking of the head

This was a gesture that people used to show scorn to others.

Psalms 44:15

my dishonor is before me

The writer speaks of his dishonor as if it were an object that is always in front of him for him to see. The phrase means that he is always thinking about his dishonor. Alternate translation: "I think about my dishonor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the shame of my face has covered me

The writer speaks of his shame as if it is an object that covers him like a blanket would cover him. Alternate translation: "the shame of my face has overwhelmed me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the shame of my face

"the shame that shows on my face." This refers to his facial expressions that his shame causes.

Psalms 44:16

because of the voice of him who rebukes and insults

Here the words "the voice" represents the person insulting him. Alternate translation: "because of what the person says who rebukes and insults me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

rebukes and insults

These words have similar meanings and emphasize the harsh nature of what this person says. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 44:17

General Information:

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Psalms 44:18

Our heart has not turned back ... have not gone from your way

These two phrases are parallel. The writer speaks of loyalty to God as if it were following him, and disloyalty as if it were turning away from him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Our heart has not turned back

Here the word "heart" refers to the emotions, and specifically to loyalty and devotion. Alternate translation: "We have not stopped being loyal to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 44:19

you have severely broken us

The writer speaks of God's punishment as if it were breaking a fragile object. Alternate translation: "you have punished us severely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the place of jackals

The writer speaks of Israel after God's punishment as if it were a wild, uninhabitable place. Alternate translation: "and made our land like a place where jackals live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

jackals

a type of wild dog

covered us with the shadow of death

The writer speaks of death as if it is an object that casts a shadow over those who are about to die. Alternate translation: "made us so that we are about to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:20

If we have forgotten the name of our God

This describes a situation that could have happened but did not. The writer knew that they had not forgotten the name of God. Here the word "name" refers to God, himself. To forget the name of God is to stop worshiping him. Alternate translation: "If we have forgotten our God" or "If we have stopped worshiping our God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

spread out our hands to a strange god

Spreading out the hands is a gesture that people used to worship and pray to a god. Alternate translation: "worshiped a strange god" or "prayed to a strange god" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 44:21

would not God search this out?

The writer uses this question to express that God would know if they worshiped another god. Alternate translation: "God would certainly find out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

he knows the secrets of the heart

Here the word "heart" refers to the mind and thoughts. Alternate translation: "he knows what a person secretly thinks" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 44:22

we are being killed all day long

The phrase "all day long" is an exaggeration to emphasize that their people are being killed frequently. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "we are always in danger of people killing us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

we are considered to be sheep for the slaughter

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people consider us to be sheep for the slaughter" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

sheep for the slaughter

The writer compares the Israelites to sheep that people kill and eat. As sheep are helpless before those who kill them, so the Israelites are helpless before their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:23

Awake, why do you sleep, Lord?

This does not mean that God is actually asleep. The writer speaks of God's seeming inactivity as if God is sleeping. He asks the question to rebuke God for appearing not to be concerned about their troubles. Alternate translation: "Wake up! I feel like you are sleeping, Lord!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not throw us off

The writer speaks of God's rejection of Israel as if he were discarding an unwanted piece of clothing. See how you translated a similar phrase in Psalms 44:9. Alternate translation: "do not reject us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:24

Why do you hide your face ... our oppression?

The writer uses this question to complain that God appears to be ignoring them. Alternate translation: "Do not hide your face ... our oppression." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

hide your face

The writer speaks of God ignoring them as if God were hiding his face so that he could not see them. Alternate translation: "ignore us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

forget our affliction and our oppression

The words "affliction" and "oppression" mean basically the same thing and emphasize the severity of their affliction. These words may also be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: "forget that people afflict us and oppress us" or "forget that people greatly afflict us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 44:25

For we have sunk down into the dust; our bodies cling to the earth

These parallel phrases share similar meanings. The writer describes his people as lying on the ground in a posture of defeat and humiliation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For we have sunk down into the dust

The writer speaks of their humiliation as if their bodies were objects, such as ice, that melt and soak into the dirt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

our bodies cling to the earth

The writer speaks of their humiliation as if their bodies were stuck to the ground and they could not raise themselves up. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 44:26

Rise up

This is a command to stand. This phrase refers to beginning to act on something. Alternate translation: "Take action" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

for the sake of your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "to show that you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 45

Psalms 45:intro-0

Psalm 045 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 45 is a royal psalm written for the king's wedding day.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Beauty

The king has a beautiful palace, and his bride is also beautiful.

# Superscription

Psalms 45:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Shoshannim

This may refer to a style or the tune of the music. Sometimes it is translated as "set to the tune of 'Lilies.'"

A psalm of the sons of Korah

"This is a psalm that the sons of Korah wrote."

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

My heart overflows on a good subject

The writer speaks of his heart as if it were a container that overflows with liquid. The word "heart" represents his emotions, which are excited by the song that he sings. Alternate translation: "My emotions are excited about a good subject" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a good subject

"a noble theme" or "a beautiful word." This refers to the song that he has written.

composed

to have written or created a song

my tongue is the pen of a ready writer

The writer speaks of his tongue as if it were a pen. He speaks words as skillfully as an experienced writer writes words. Alternate translation: "my tongue is like the pen of person who writes well" or "I speak words as skillfully as an experienced writer can write words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 45:2

You are fairer than the children of mankind

This phrase is an exaggeration that emphasizes that the king is better looking than anyone else. The phrase "children of mankind" is an idiom and refers to all humans. Alternate translation: "You are more handsome than any other man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

grace is poured onto your lips

The writer speaks of grace as if it were oil that someone has used to anoint the king's lips. The word "lips" refers to the king's speech. The phrase means that the king speaks eloquently. Alternate translation: "it is as if someone has anointed your lips with oil" or "you speak eloquently" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 45:3

Put your sword on your side

Warriors carried their swords in a sheath that hung from a belt around their waist. The sword would rest against their side. This phrase describes an action of someone preparing for battle. Alternate translation: "Prepare yourself for battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 45:4

ride on triumphantly

The writer tells the king to ride his horse or chariot to victory.

because of trustworthiness, meekness, and righteousness

The abstract nouns "trustworthiness," "meekness," and "righteousness" can be stated as adjectives. Possible meanings are 1) these are qualities of the mighty one. Alternate translation: "because you are trustworthy, meek, and righteous" or 2) these are virtues that he fights to uphold for the people whom he rules. Alternate translation: "in order to fight for what is trustworthy, meek, and right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your right hand will teach you fearful things

Most soldiers held their swords with their right hands when they fought. Here, the phrase "right hand" refers to his ability to fight, which the writer speaks of as if it were a person who can teach the king through the experience he gains in battle. Alternate translation: "You will learn to accomplish great military feats by fighting in many battles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

fearful things

"awesome deeds." This refers to military victories that cause his enemies to fear him and his allies to revere him.

Psalms 45:5

the peoples fall under you

This phrase refers to the king defeating his enemies. Possible meanings are 1) "the peoples fall at your feet in surrender" or 2) "the peoples fall dead at your feet."

your arrows are in the hearts of the king's enemies

"your arrows have pierced the hearts of your enemies." The writer speaks to the king while referring to the king in the third person.

Psalms 45:6

Your throne ... is forever and ever

The word "throne" represents the kingdom and rule of the king. Alternate translation: "Your kingdom ... is forever and ever" or "You will reign ... forever and ever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Your throne, God

Possible meanings are that the word "God" 1) is a title for the king, who is God's representative or 2) modifies the word "throne" and means "Your kingdom that God has given you."

a scepter of justice is the scepter of your kingdom

The word "scepter" represents the king's authority to rule his kingdom. Alternate translation: "you rule your kingdom with justice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 45:7

God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness

The writer speaks of gladness as if it were an oil that God used to anoint the king. That God has anointed him is a symbolic action that represents God's choosing him to be king. Alternate translation: "when God appointed you as king, he made you very glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 45:8

General Information:

Here the writer begins to describe what appears to be the wedding ceremony of the king and his bride.

myrrh, aloes, and cassia

These are aromatic plant substances that people used to make perfumes. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

ivory palaces

Ivory is a hard white substance that forms animal's tusks. This phrase describes a palace with walls and furniture that people have decorated with ivory.

stringed instruments have made you glad

The words "stringed instruments" refers to the music that people make by playing the stringed instruments. Alternate translation: "the music of stringed instruments has made you glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 45:9

honorable women

These women are wives of the king who receive his approval.

the queen

This is a reference to the woman who will become queen. Alternate translation: "your bride, the queen" or "your bride, who will be the queen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Ophir

This is the name of a place that had a reputation for its fine gold. The location is unknown. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 45:10

Listen, daughter

The writer begins to speak to the queen and refers to her as "daughter" because she is a young woman.

incline your ear

The writer speaks of listening carefully to something as if it were bending one's ear towards the person who is speaking. Alternate translation: "listen carefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

forget your own people

The writer speaks of the queen no longer following the beliefs and customs of her native people as if it were forgetting them. Alternate translation: "no longer follow the customs of your people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your father's house

Here the word "house" refers to family. Alternate translation: "your relatives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 45:11

In this way

"and" or "so"

the king will desire your beauty

This is a polite way to say that the king will want to sleep with the queen as his wife. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 45:12

General Information:

The writer continues to speak to the queen.

The daughter of Tyre

The writer speaks of the people who live in Tyre as if they are Tyre's children. Alternate translation: "The people of Tyre" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 45:13

The royal daughter

This is a reference to the woman whom the king will marry. Alternate translation: "The king's bride" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

all glorious

"very beautiful." This refers to the woman's appearance.

her clothing is worked with gold

Her clothing is decorated or embroidered with gold. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "she wears clothing that someone has embroidered with golden thread" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 45:14

General Information:

The author continues to speak about the queen but begins to address the king again.

She will be led to the king in embroidered dress

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People will lead her to the king as she wears an embroidered dress" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

embroidered

a design made by sewing colored threads into cloth

the virgins, her companions who follow her, will be brought to you

Here the word "you" refers to the king. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people will bring to you the virgins, her companions who follow her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 45:15

They will be led by gladness and rejoicing

This phrase describes "gladness and rejoicing" as a person who leads others to celebrate. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Gladness and rejoicing will lead them" or "They will proceed with gladness and rejoicing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

gladness and rejoicing

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of gladness. Alternate translation: "great gladness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 45:16

Connecting Statement:

The writer continues to address the king.

In the place of your fathers will be your children

This means that the king's sons will replace him as king, just as he replaced his ancestors as king.

you will make princes in all the earth

The phrase "in all the earth" is an exaggeration to emphasize that they will rule over many nations. Alternate translation: "you will make rulers over many nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 45:17

I will make your name to be remembered in all generations

Here the word "I" refers to the writer. The word "name" refers to the king's character and reputation. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will cause people in every generation to know about your greatness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 46

Psalms 46:intro-0

Psalm 046 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 46 is a psalm of praise to God.

Special concepts in this chapter

God is all-powerful, controls nature, and protects his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/peopleofgod.md]])

Psalms 46:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

A psalm of the sons of Korah

"This is a psalm that the sons of Korah wrote"

set to Alamoth

This may refer to a style of music. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

God is our refuge and strength

The writer speaks of God as if he were a place where people can go for safety. Alternate translation: "God gives us safety and strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 46:2

the mountains should be shaken into the heart of the seas

The writer speaks of the deepest part of the sea as if it were the sea's heart. Here he describes an earthquake that causes the mountains to crumble and fall into the sea. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the mountains should shake so violently that they fall into the depths of the sea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 46:3

though its waters roar and rage

"though the waters of the sea roar and rage." The words "roar" and "rage" describe the violent movements of the sea during a strong storm.

mountains tremble with their swelling

The phrase "their swelling" refers to the waters of the sea as they rise and crash against the mountains. Alternate translation: "the swelling waters cause the mountains to tremble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 46:4

There is a river whose streams make the city of God happy

The imagery of a running river symbolizes peace and prosperity for the city of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-symlanguage/01.md]])

make the city of God happy

The phrase "the city of God" refers to Jerusalem, and represents the people who live in that city. Alternate translation: "make the people who live in Jerusalem happy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the holy place where the Most High dwells

This phrase describes "the city of God." Alternate translation: "the holy place where the Most High lives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 46:5

in the middle of her; she will not be moved ... help her

The words "her" and "she" refer to "the city of God."

she will not be moved

Here, the word "moved" is the same word translated as "shaken" in Psalms v. 2. The writer speaks of the destruction of Jerusalem by armies as if an earthquake were to destroy it. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "nothing will be able destroy her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 46:6

The nations raged

Here, the word "raged" is the same word that the writer used in Psalms v. 3 to describe the waters of the sea. The writer speaks of the fear of the nations as if it was the violent movements of the sea during a strong storm. Alternate translation: "The nations are terrified" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the kingdoms were shaken

Here, the word "shaken" is the same word that the writer used in Psalms v. 2 to describe the effect of an earthquake on the mountains. The writer speaks of the overthrow of kingdoms by armies as if an earthquake were to destroy them. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "armies overthrew the kingdoms" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

he lifted up his voice

"God lifted up his voice." The writer speaks of the "voice" as an object that a person can pick up and raise into the air. This means that the voice becomes louder. Alternate translation: "God shouted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the earth melted

The writer speaks of the earth as an object, such as ice, that can melt. Here "the earth" represents mankind, and to melt represents fear. Alternate translation: "the people of the earth tremble with fear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 46:7

the God of Jacob is our refuge

The writer speaks of God as if he were a place where people can go for safety. Alternate translation: "the God of Jacob gives us safety" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the God of Jacob

Possible meanings are 1) "the God whom Jacob worshiped" or 2) "Jacob" is a metonym for the nation of Israel and means "the God of Israel." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 46:8

General Information:

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Psalms 46:9

He makes wars cease

"He makes nations stop fighting wars"

to the ends of the earth

This is an idiom that refers to everywhere in the word. Alternate translation: "everywhere in the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he breaks the bow ... burns up the shields

One way in which Yahweh will make all wars to cease is by destroying the weapons that the armies use to fight one another.

shields

Some versions understand this Hebrew word as "chariots." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate:translate_textvariants/01.md]])

Psalms 46:10

Be quiet and know that I am God

Here, God begins to speak.

Be quiet

In this context, these words are likely a command to the nations to stop their wars. Alternate translation: "Stop fighting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

know that I am God

Here the word "know" means to understand and to confess that Yahweh is the true God.

I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted on the earth

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the people of every nation in the world will exalt God. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People from every nation will exalt me; people all over the earth will exalt me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 46:11

Yahweh of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge

The writer speaks of God as if he were a place where people can go for safety. See how you translated these lines in Psalms 46:7. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 47

Psalms 47:intro-0

Psalm 047 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 47 is a psalm of praise to God.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's power

God is powerful over all the nations in the world.

Psalms 47:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

Clap your hands

Clapping your hands is associated with celebration. Alternate translation: "Clap your hands in celebration" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

shout to God with the sound of triumph

"shout to God with joyful voices." Here the word "triumph" refers to the joy associated with victory.

Psalms 47:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 47:3

He subdues peoples under us and nations under our feet

These two phrases are parallel and mean that God enabled Israel to conquer their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

subdues

to conquer and place under the authority of another

under us ... under our feet

The writer speaks of conquering other nations as if it were putting those nations underneath their feet. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 47:4

He chooses our inheritance for us

The writer speaks of the land of Israel as if it were an inheritance that God has given the people as a permanent possession. Alternate translation: "He chooses this land as an inheritance for us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the glory of Jacob

Here the word "glory" refers to a source of pride and represents the land that God has given to his people as an inheritance. Alternate translation: "the land in which Jacob takes pride" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Jacob whom he loved

The word "Jacob" refers to the nation of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 47:5

God has gone up with a shout

The writer speaks of God's conquering the nations as if God were a king ascending his throne, which was located in the temple. Alternate translation: "God has gone up into the temple as people shouted" or "God has ascended to his throne as people shouted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Yahweh with the sound of a trumpet

This phrase parallels the previous phrase. The verb may be supplied for clarity. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has gone up as people blew trumpets" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 47:6

Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises

The phrase "sing praises" is repeated for emphasis. You may omit the repetition if it is awkward in your language. Alternate translation: "Sing, sing praises to God; sing, sing praises to our King" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 47:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 47:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 47:9

The princes of the peoples

"The rulers of all the nations"

gathered together to the people

Possible meanings are that the rulers of the nations 1) "gather in front of the people" or 2) "gathered together with the people" so that all may worship God as king.

the shields of the earth belong to God

Possible meanings are that "shields" 1) refers to instruments of war. Alternate translation: "God has more power than the weapons of all the kings on the earth" or 2) refers to the rulers of the nations who are spoken of as shields who protect their nations. Alternate translation: "the kings of the earth are subject to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 48

Psalms 48:intro-0

Psalm 048 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 48 is a psalm of praise for Jerusalem.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Jerusalem

Jerusalem has mighty defenses. Foreign nations will be amazed. It is something to remember and testify about. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/testimony.md]])

It is helpful to know that "Mount Zion" is often used to refer to the city of Jerusalem.

Psalms 48:1

General Information:

This psalm is a song about Jerusalem being God's dwelling place. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

greatly to be praised

This can be stated in active from. Alternate translation: "people are to praise him greatly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the city of our God on his holy mountain

This is a reference to Jerusalem, which was built on Mount Zion.

the city of our God

Possible meanings are 1) "the city where our God lives" or 2) "the city that belongs to our God"

Psalms 48:2

Beautiful in elevation

"Beautiful and high." The word "elevation" refers to how high mount Zion is.

the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion

Here the word "earth" refers to everyone living on the earth. The word "joy" may be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "Mount Zion gives joy to everyone on earth" or "everyone on earth rejoices because of Mount Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

on the sides of the north

Possible meanings are that this phrase 1) refers to the direction of the north or 2) is another name for Mount Zion meaning "the mountain of God."

Psalms 48:3

God has made himself known in her palaces as a refuge

The writer speaks of God as if he were a place where people can go for safety. Alternate translation: "God has made himself known as one who gives safety to the people in Mount Zion's palaces" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 48:4

see

The word "see" here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

assembled themselves

Here the kings represent their armies. Alternate translation: "assembled their armies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they passed by together

"together they passed by Jerusalem"

Psalms 48:5

They saw it

"They saw Jerusalem"

dismayed

greatly troubled

Psalms 48:6

Trembling took hold of them there

The writer speaks of the kings' fear as if it were a person who caused the kings and their armies to tremble. Alternate translation: "There they trembled with fear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

pain as when a woman is in labor

The writer speaks of the kings' fear as if it were the pain that a woman experiences in childbirth and speaks of that pain as if it were a person. The verb may be supplied from the previous clause. Alternate translation: "pain took hold of them, as when a woman is in labor" or "they became afraid, like a woman is afraid of experiencing labor pains" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 48:7

With the east wind you break the ships of Tarshish

Possible meanings are 1) this is a metaphor in which the author describes the kings being afraid as if they were ships that shake because God destroys them with a strong wind. Alternate translation: "They shook with fear, as the ships of Tarshish shake when you break them with the east wind" or 2) this is an apostrophe in which the author describes God's great power. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

the east wind

Possible meanings are 1) "a wind blowing from the east" or 2) "a strong wind."

the ships of Tarshish

Possible meanings are that this refers to 1) ships that sail to or are built in the city of Tarshish or 2) any large ocean-going ship.

Psalms 48:8

As we have heard

It is implied that what they have heard is the great things that God has done in the past. Alternate translation: "As we have heard about the great things that God has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

so have we seen

This means that they have seen the proof that the things that they have heard are true. Alternate translation: "so we have seen God do great things now" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

in the city of Yahweh of hosts, in the city of our God

Both of these phrases refer to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "in the city of our God, Yahweh of hosts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

establish it

"make it secure." Here the word "establish means to preserve and make something secure.

Psalms 48:9

your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "how faithful you are to your covenant" or "how faithful you are to us because of your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

in the middle of your temple

"as we are in your temple"

Psalms 48:10

As your name is ... so is your praise to the ends of the earth

Here the word "name" represents God's character and reputation. The two phrases compare the greatness of God's reputation with how greatly people praise him. Alternate translation: "Your name is very great ... and so people throughout the world praise you greatly" or "People all throughout the world have heard of you ... so people throughout the world praise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to the ends of the earth

This is an idiomatic expression that means everywhere in the word. See how you translated this in Psalms 46:9. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your right hand is full of righteousness

The writer speaks of righteousness as if it were an object that God could hold in his hand. Here the word "hand" refers to God's power and authority to rule. Alternate translation: "you rule with righteousness" or "you are righteous as you rule" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 48:11

Let Mount Zion be glad

The writer speaks of Mount Zion as if it were a person who could be glad. The phrase refers to the people who live in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "Let those who live on Mount Zion be glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

let the daughters of Judah rejoice

The writer speaks of the towns in Judah as if they were Judah's children. The phrase refers to the people who live in those towns. Alternate translation: "let the people who live in the cities of Judah rejoice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 48:12

Walk around Mount Zion, go round about her

These two phrases are parallel. Alternate translation: "Walk all the way around Mount Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 48:13

notice well

"notice in detail"

Psalms 48:14

he will be our guide

The word "guide" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "he will guide us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

to death

Possible meanings are 1) "until we die" or 2) "forever."

Psalms 49

Psalms 49:intro-0

Psalm 049 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 49 is a wisdom psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Riches

Riches do not last forever. They cannot save a person from death, and they cannot be taken from a person at death. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/eternity.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 49:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

Hear this, all you peoples; give ear, all you inhabitants

These two phrases are parallel. Together they strengthen the command for all people to listen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

give ear

This idiomatic expression means to use one's ears to listen. Alternate translation: "listen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 49:2

both low and high

The writer speaks of people who are weak or insignificant in society as being low and of people who are important and powerful as being high. Together, the words "low" and "high" represent all people. Alternate translation: "both important people and unimportant people" or "people of every social class" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

rich and poor together

Together the words "rich" and "poor" refer to all people, regardless of wealth. Alternate translation: "all people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 49:3

My mouth will speak wisdom

Here the word "mouth" refers to the whole person who speaks. Alternate translation: "I will speak wise words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the meditation of my heart will be of understanding

Here the word "heart" represents the mind and thoughts. The abstract nouns "meditation" and "understanding" can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: "the thoughts upon which I meditate will help you to understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 49:4

incline my ear

with the harp

"as I play the harp"

Psalms 49:5

Why should I fear ... heels?

The writer asks this question to emphasize that he has no reason to fear when bad things happen. Alternate translation: "I have no reason to fear ... heels." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the days of evil

"when evil things happen." Here the word "days" refers to general periods of time.

when iniquity surrounds me at my heels

Possible meanings are 1) the writer speaks of the evil desires of his enemies as if it were a predator ready to overtake him. Alternate translation: "when the iniquity of sinful men is ready to overcome me" or 2) the writer's enemies surround him as they commit their iniquity. Alternate translation: "when my enemies surround me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 49:6

those who trust in their wealth

These people trust their wealth will keep them from having to suffer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

about the amount of their riches

a large amount of something

Psalms 49:7

It is certain that no one

"There is no way that any of them can" or Alternate translation: "No one can"

no one can redeem his brother or give God a ransom for him

Both of these phrases express that a person cannot give God enough money to be able to avoid death. Alternate translation: "no one can pay money to God so that their brother will not die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 49:8

the redemption of one's life is costly

The word "redemption" can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: "it costs too much to redeem a person's life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 49:9

so that his body should not decay

This refers to the body decomposing in the grave.

Psalms 49:10

he will see decay

The writer speaks of experiencing something as if it were seeing that thing. Alternate translation: "he will die and his body will decay" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Wise men die; the fool and the brute alike perish

The author refers to all people by referring to those who have the most and least wisdom. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

brute

This means a person who is stupid or unintelligent.

Psalms 49:11

Their inner thought

"Their belief"

the places where they live, to all generations

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "the places where they live will continue to all generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

they call their lands after their own names

"they name their lands after themselves." This phrase expresses ownership. Alternate translation: "they own their own lands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 49:12

But man, having wealth

"But man, even if he has wealth"

Psalms 49:13

This, their way, is their folly

The writer speaks of the fate of fools as if it is the destination at the end of the path on which they walk. Alternate translation: "This is the fate of those who practice folly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

yet after them

"yet after they die"

Psalms 49:14

General Information:

The author continues to describe people who believe their wealth will save them.

Like sheep

The writer compares people who will all die to a flock of sheep. Just as sheep cannot escape when the butcher decides to slaughter them, so men will not escape when it is their time to die. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they are appointed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has appointed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

death will be their shepherd

The writer speaks of men dying by personifying death as a shepherd who leads them into the grave. Alternate translation: "death will take them away as a shepherd leads away sheep to be slaughtered" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the morning

Here the word "morning" is a metaphor that refers to a time when God will vindicate righteous people and save them from evil people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their bodies will be consumed in Sheol

The writer speaks of Sheol, the place of the dead, as if it were a person or animal. He speaks of the decay of dead bodies as if Sheol were eating them. Alternate translation: "their bodies will decompose in the grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 49:15

God will redeem my life from the power of Sheol

The writer speaks of Sheol as if it were a person who has power over those who die. From the context, it is implied that this power refers to consuming the bodies of the dead. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

God will redeem my life

Here the word "life" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "God will redeem me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 49:16

the glory of his house increases

The word "glory" here refers to wealth or riches. Possible meanings are 1) "when he gains more wealth in his house" or 2) "when his family becomes richer."

Psalms 49:17

he will take nothing away

"he will take nothing with him to the grave"

his glory will not go down after him

The phrase "go down" refers to when the man dies. Alternate translation: "his glory will not go along with him when he dies" or "he will not keep his reputation when he dies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 49:18

He blessed his soul

Here the word "soul" refers to the whole person. This phrase means that he considered himself to be happy and successful because of his riches. Alternate translation: "He congratulated himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 49:19

he will go to the generation of his fathers

"he will go to where his fathers' generation is." This is a euphemism that means that the rich man will die and join his ancestors in the grave. Alternate translation: "he will join his ancestors in the grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

they will never see the light again

The word "they" refers to the rich man and his ancestors. The word "light" may refer to the sun or be a metaphor for life. Alternate translation: "they will never see the sun again" or "they will never live again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 49:20

General Information:

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Psalms 50

Psalms 50:intro-0

Psalm 050 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 50 is a wisdom psalm. It tells what pleases God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Sacrifices

God does not need animal sacrifices; he does not eat meat or drink blood. The world and everything in it belong to God. He wants people to be thankful and to depend on him. God rejects evil people who reject his covenant. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/blood.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Psalms 50:1

General Information:

This psalm is a song that teaches people. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The Mighty One, God, Yahweh

The author uses three different names to speak of God.

called the earth

Here the word "earth" refers to the people who live on the earth. Alternate translation: "called all people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from the rising of the sun to its setting

This phrase refers to the directions east, where the sun rises, and west, where the sun sets. The writer uses these two extremes to represent everywhere on earth. Alternate translation: "everywhere on earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 50:2

Zion, the perfection of beauty

Possible meanings are 1) "Zion, whose beauty is perfect" or 2) "Zion, the most beautiful city."

God has shone

The writer speaks of God as if he were a light that shines. This refers to God causing people to know about his glory. Alternate translation: "God's glory shines like a light" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 50:3

does not stay silent

The writer uses this negative statement to emphasize the positive. Alternate translation: "speaks so that everyone can hear him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

a fire devours before him

The writer speaks of a fire burning things as if it were eating them. Alternate translation: "a fire burns in front of him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

it is very stormy around him

"there is a great storm around him"

Psalms 50:4

He calls to the heavens above and to the earth

Possible meanings are 1) God is calling on all who live in heaven and on earth to be witnesses as he judges his people or 2) God is speaking to heaven and earth as if they are people, and he is calling them to be witnesses as he judges his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 50:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 50:6

The heavens will declare

Possible meanings are 1) the writer uses the word "heavens" to refer to the angels who live there or 2) the writer speaks of "the heavens" as if they are a person who testifies about God's righteousness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 50:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 50:8

I will not reprove you for your sacrifices

"I will reprove you, but not for your sacrifices." God explains that their sacrifices are not the reason that he is reproving them.

reprove

tell someone he is guilty of doing wrong

your burnt offerings are always before me

This explains why God is not rebuking them for their sacrifices. The phrase "are always before me" refers to being in God's presence and means that his people are always sacrificing their burnt offerings to him. Alternate translation: "you are always sacrificing burnt offerings to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 50:9

folds

areas surrounded by walls in which sheep and goats are kept

Psalms 50:10

the cattle on a thousand hills

The phrase "on a thousand hills" does not represent the total number of cattle that God owns. The number is an exaggeration that emphasizes that God owns all of the cattle in the world. The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "all the cattle in the world are mine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

thousand hills

"1,000 hills" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Psalms 50:11

I know all the birds

Here the word "know" implies ownership. Alternate translation: "I own all the birds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 50:12

If I were hungry

This describes something that could not happen, since God does not get hungry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

Psalms 50:13

Will I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats?

God asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that he does not do these things and so has no need for their sacrifices. Alternate translation: "I do not eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 50:14

Offer to God

Here God refers to himself. Alternate translation: "Offer to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

pay your vows to the Most High

The writer speaks of "vows" as if they are currency which a person pays to God. Alternate translation: "fulfill your vows to the Most High" or "do what you have promised the Most High to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 50:15

in the day of trouble

Here the word "day" refers to any period of time. Alternate translation: "whenever you have troubles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 50:16

But to the wicked God says

Here God is still speaking and speaks of himself in the third person. Alternate translation: "But to the wicked I say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

to the wicked

The word "wicked" refers to wicked people in general. Alternate translation: "to wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

have taken my covenant in your mouth

God speaks of wicked people reciting the words of his covenant as if they are putting the covenant in their mouth. Alternate translation: "talk about my covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 50:17

since you hate instruction and throw my words away

This is the end of the rhetorical question begun with the words "What have you to do" (Psalms 50:16. God uses this question to rebuke wicked people. This question can be turned into a statement: "It is not right for you to declare my statutes and my covenant, since you hate instruction and throw my words away." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

throw my words away

God speaks of the wicked people rejecting what he says as if they were throwing away trash. Alternate translation: "reject what I say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 50:18

you agree with him

Possible meanings are 1) that they approve of the thief's actions. Alternate translation: "you approve or him" or 2) that they join the thief in their actions. Alternate translation: "you join him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 50:19

You give your mouth to evil

God speaks of a person speaking evil things as if that person's mouth is a messenger whom the person sends to do evil things. Alternate translation: "You are always saying evil things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

your tongue expresses deceit

The word "tongue" represents the person who is speaking. Alternate translation: "you are always telling lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 50:20

You sit and speak against your brother; you slander your own mother's son

These two phrases have the same meaning but use different words. God accuses them of speaking falsely against members of their own family. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

You sit and speak

To "sit and speak" against someone implies that this person deliberately thinks of bad things to say about someone. Alternate translation: "You always think of ways to speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 50:21

you thought that I was someone just like yourself

Since God had kept silent and not yet rebuked the wicked people for their actions, they thought that God approved of what they did. Alternate translation: "you thought that I was someone who acts just like you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

reprove

tell someone he is guilty of doing wrong

bring up ... all the things you have done

God speaks of listing all of the evil things that they have done. Alternate translation: "list ... all the things you have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

right before your eyes

Here, to be "before your eyes" means that it is in a place where they can see. This means that they will not be able to deny the charges that God brings against them. Alternate translation: "right in front of you" or "so that you can not deny them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 50:22

you who forget God

God speaks of the wicked rejecting him as if they have forgotten him. He speaks of himself in the third person. Alternate translation: "you who reject me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

I will tear you to pieces

God speaks of destroying the wicked as if he were a lion eating its prey. Alternate translation: "I will destroy you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 50:23

plans his path in the right way

God speaks of a the way a person lives as if it were a path that the person travels. Alternate translation: "lives his life the right way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will show God's salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as "save." God refers to himself in the third person. Alternate translation: "I will save him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 51

Psalms 51:intro-0

Psalm 051 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 51 is a psalm of repentance from sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Repentance

The psalmist is truly sorry for having sinned. He repented and God forgave his sins. God wants true sorrow for having sinned, not sacrifices. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/true.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/forgive.md]])

# Author of Psalm

Scholars are divided over whether this psalm was authored by King David as is mentioned by the superscription. If nothing else, we can assume the last two verses were added later since Jerusalem is intact with well-built walls during King David's reign.

Psalms 51:1

General Information:

Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. In this psalm David asks God for forgiveness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

when Nathan the prophet came to him

It can be stated clearly what Nathan did when he came to David, because this psalm is in response to that. Alternate translation: "when Nathan the prophet came to David and rebuked him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

because of your covenant faithfulness

for the sake of the multitude of your merciful actions

"because you do so many merciful things"

blot out my transgressions

Forgiving sins is spoken of as either 1) blotting them out or 2) erasing a written record of the sins. Alternate translation: "forgive my sins like someone wiping something away" or "forget my sins like someone who erases a record of sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:2

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity ... cleanse me from my sin

These two phrases mean the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity

Being acceptable to God is spoken of as being clean. God makes people acceptable by forgiving their sins. Alternate translation: "Wash away all my sin" or "Forgive all my sins so that I will be acceptable to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

thoroughly

completely, totally

cleanse me from my sin

Being acceptable to God is spoken of as being clean. God makes people acceptable by forgiving their sins. Alternate translation: "Make me clean from my sin" or "forgive me for my sin so that I will be clean" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:3

my sin is always before me

Not being able to forget his sins is spoken of as if they were always in front of him where he can see them. Alternate translation: "I am always aware of my sins" or "I cannot forget my sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:4

what is evil in your sight

The word "sight" here represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of David's actions. Alternate translation: "what you judge to be evil" or "what you consider to be evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:5

I was born in iniquity

Being a sinner is spoken of as being in iniquity. Alternate translation: "I was already a sinner when I was born" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as soon as my mother conceived me, I was in sin

Being a sinner is spoken of as being in sin. Alternate translation: "even when my mother conceived me, I was a sinner" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:6

See, you desire trustworthiness

The use of "See" here draw our attention to the contrast between this sentence and "See, I was born in iniquity" (verse 5). "Truly I was born in iniquity ... But you desire trustworthiness"

you desire trustworthiness in my inner self

The "inner self" represents either 1) the person's desires or 2) the whole person. Alternate translation: "you want me to desire trustworthiness" or "you want me to be trustworthy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 51:7

Purify me ... I will be clean ... wash me ... I will be whiter than snow

Being acceptable to God is spoken of as being clean or white. God makes people acceptable by forgiving their sins. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Purify me with hyssop

The writer speaks of God as if God were a priest who would sprinkle water on him to make him acceptable to God. Alternate translation: "Make me acceptable by sprinkling water on me with hyssop" or "Forgive me for my sins so that I will be acceptable to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

hyssop

This is a plant that the priests used to sprinkle water or blood on people or things to make them ceremonially clean, that is, acceptable to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

whiter than snow

Not having sin is spoken of as being white. Alternate translation: "very, very white" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 51:8

joy and gladness

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize his desire to hear joyful things. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

so that the bones that you have broken may rejoice

Feeling terrible sadness is spoken of as if his bones were broken. Alternate translation: "for you have caused me terrible sadness in my inner being. Let me rejoice again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:9

Hide your face from my sins

Thinking about someone's sins is spoken of as seeing them. Forgiving or refusing to think about the sins is spoken of as choosing not to see them. Alternate translation: "Do not look at my sins" or "Do not remember my sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

blot out all my iniquities

Forgiving or refusing to think about someone's sins is spoken of as either 1) blotting them out or 2) erasing a written record of the sins. Alternate translation: 1) "forgive my sins like someone wiping something away" or "forget my sins like someone who erases a record of sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:10

Create in me a clean heart

Here the "heart" represents the feelings and desires. Being completely devoted and obedient to God is spoken of as having a clean heart. Alternate translation: "Make me completely devoted to you" or "Make me want to obey you always" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

renew a right spirit within me

Here "spirit" represents the attitude and desires of a David. Alternate translation: "make my attitude right" or "make me always want to do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 51:11

Do not drive me away from your presence

"Do not force me to go away from you." Being rejected by God is spoken of as being forced to go away from him. Alternate translation: "Do not reject me as one of your people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:12

sustain me

"hold me up" or "assist me"

Psalms 51:13

your ways

"the way you want people to live" or "what you want people to do"

transgressors ... sinners

These two words refer to the same people here.

Psalms 51:14

shedding blood

This phrase refers to killing another person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 51:15

Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will express your praise

Here the person is represented by his "mouth." Being able to talk is spoken of as the lips being open. Here not being able to speak is a symbol of being guilty of sin and not being able to make a defense. Alternate translation: "Lord, make me able to speak, and I will praise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 51:16

you do not delight in sacrifice ... you have no pleasure in burnt offerings

This means that God wants something more important than these things. Alternate translation: "A sacrifice is not enough to please you ... you want something more than burn offerings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 51:17

The sacrifices of God

"The sacrifices that please God"

a broken spirit

A broken spirit represents a humble attitude. Alternate translation: "humility" or "a person who becomes humble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a broken and a contrite heart

Being humble and sorry for one's sin is spoken of as having a broken and contrite heart. The heart represents the emotions and will. Alternate translation: "sorrow and humility" or "a person who is sorry for his sin and humble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 51:18

rebuild the walls of Jerusalem

The walls of a city protect the city and the people in it. Possible meanings are 1) "enable us to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem" or 2) "protect Jerusalem and make it strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 51:19

our people will offer bulls on your altar

A bull is an adult male cow. Bulls were often used as sacrificial animals, according to God's instruction.

Psalms 52

Psalms 52:intro-0

Psalm 052 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 52 is a wisdom psalm. It teaches that God will destroy evil people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Evil people

Although the evil people feel secure with their wealth and evil deeds, God will destroy them. But people who do good are secure because God protects them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/works.md]])

# Superscription

This psalm is called "a Maschil of David." The word "Maschil" in the original language has caused scholars to have various opinions about its meaning. Some say it means to instruct, while others say that the word is referring to the skill used in creating the psalm. Still others think it means that meditation should be used in reading this psalm.

Psalms 52:1

General Information:

In this psalm the word "you" refers to Doeg. When Saul wanted to kill David, Doeg told Saul where David was so that Saul could find him. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

Doeg ... Ahimelech

These are the names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Why are you proud of making trouble, you mighty man?

This question shows how angry David was at the one who made trouble. Alternate translation: "You should not be so proud of making trouble, you mighty man." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

you mighty man

David may have been using irony when he called Doeg this. Alternate translation: "you, who think you are so mighty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

The covenant faithfulness of God comes every day

David speaks of God's covenant faithfulness as if it were something that could come. David was probably referring to God's promises to protect his people from wicked people. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective or an adverb. Alternate translation: "Every day, God is faithful to keep the promises of his covenant" or "Every day, God faithfully protects his people from wicked people like you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 52:2

a sharp razor

a sharp blade

Your tongue plans destruction like a sharp razor, working deceitfully

Here the tongue is compared to a sharp razor which is capable of causing great harm. Alternate translation: "Your tongue harms people like a sharp razor does, when you plan destruction and deceive others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Your tongue

Here "your tongue" refers to the person David is speaking to. Alternate translation: "You" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 52:3

Connecting Statement:

David continues speaking to the "mighty man" of Psalms 5:1

lying rather than speaking righteousness

"you love lying more than speaking what is right"

Psalms 52:4

words that devour others

Here words that harm others are spoken of as if they were animals that devour people. Alternate translation: "words that harm others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you deceitful tongue

This refers to the person the author is speaking to. Alternate translation: "you speaker of deceit" or "you liar" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 52:5

God will surely destroy you

The word translated "surely" shows that the writer has finished describing how evil the "mighty man" verse 1 is and is now describing what God will do and that it will surely happen.

take you up ... pluck you ... root you

All three of these phrases are different ways of saying "remove you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

root you out of the land of the living

Being alive on earth is spoken of as if people are plants with roots in the ground. God killing someone is spoken of as digging up the plant's roots and taking it out of the ground. Alternate translation: "he will take you out the land of the living" or "He will kill you so that you will no longer be on earth with living people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Selah

This may be a musical term that tells people how to sing or play their instruments here. Some translations write the Hebrew word, and some translations do not include it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

Psalms 52:6

The righteous will also see it and fear

"The righteous will also see God remove him and they will fear"

Psalms 52:7

See

"Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

did not make God his refuge

Here "refuge" represents a protector. Alternate translation: "did not make God his protector" or "did not ask God to protect him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 52:8

a green olive tree

Green olive trees are strong and secure. They do not fall over.

I am like a green olive tree in the house of God

Being safe and secure is spoken of as being like a strong tree. Alternate translation: "I am strong in God's house, like a green olive tree" or "Because I worship in God's house, I am secure like a green olive tree" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

in the house of God

This refers to God's temple.

I will trust in the covenant faithfulness of God forever and ever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "I will trust in God forever and ever because he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 52:9

I will wait for your name, because it is good

God's name represents God himself. Waiting for God represents waiting for God to help him. Alternate translation: "I will wait for you, because you are good" or "I will wait for you to help me, because you are good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 53

Psalms 53:intro-0

Psalm 053 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 53 is a wisdom psalm. It warns people who do evil that God will judge them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# God's watching mankind

God looks down from heaven and sees that all humans are evil and corrupt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/heaven.md]])

# Superscription

Psalms 53:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Mahalath

This may refer to a style of music. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

Psalms 53:2

the children of mankind

This refers to all people.

who seek after him

Seeking God as a person would look for someone is spoken of as "seeking" God. Possible meanings are 1) wanting to know God. Alternate translation: "who want to know him" or 2) worshiping God. Alternate translation: "who worship him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 53:3

They have all turned away

Rejecting God and what is right is spoken of as turning away. Alternate translation: "They have all turned away from doing what is right" or "They have all rejected God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 53:4

Do those who commit iniquity have no understanding—those ... God?

This question is used to show the shock that the writer feels because the people are so sinful. It can be written as two statements. "Those who commit iniquity act as though they do not know anything. They devour my people as if they were eating bread, and they do not call on God!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

those who devour my people as if they were eating bread

Destroying people is spoken of as devouring them. Doing it as if they were eating bread implies that they did it very easily or without feeling guilty about it. Alternate translation: "those who destroy my people as freely as if they were eating bread" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 53:5

God will scatter the bones of those who attack you

Scattering people's bones represents killing them and allowing their bones to remain wherever they have died and not be buried properly. "God will completely destroy everyone who attacks you, and their bones will lie scattered on the ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 53:6

Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come

The word "Oh" here introduces an exclamation that expresses a hope or prayer. Alternate translation: "I hope that the salvation of Israel will come" or "I pray that the salvation of will come" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

the salvation of Israel would come from Zion

The salvation represents God, the savior, whose temple is in Zion. Alternate translation: "the savior of Israel would come from Zion" or "God would come from Zion and save Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

When God brings back his people from the captivity

"When God saves his captive people"

Jacob will rejoice and Israel will be glad!

These two phrases have the same meaning. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Jacob

Here "Jacob" refers to the descendants of Jacob, the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 54

Psalms 54:intro-0

Psalm 054 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 54 is a deliverance psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Rescue

Evil people want to kill David; but God has rescued him in the past and he trusts God to rescue him again. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

# Superscription

Psalms 54:1

General Information:

This psalm is a prayer for help. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

on stringed instruments

"people should play stringed instruments with this song"

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1

Ziphites

people from the city of Ziph in the Judean mountains, southeast of Hebron. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Save me, God, by your name

Here God's name represents his character. It may represent specifically his power or his justice. Alternate translation: "Save me, God, by your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

judge me in your might

Judging David here represents showing people that David is not guilty. When God uses his might to save David, people will know that God has judged him as not guilty. Alternate translation: "In your might, show people that I am not guilty" or "Show people that I am not guilty by using your power to rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 54:2

give ear to the words

Giving one's ear represents listening. Alternate translation: "listen to the words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the words of my mouth

Here the speaker is represented by his mouth. Alternate translation: "my words" or "what I am saying to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 54:3

have risen up against me

Rising up against someone represents preparing to attack him or actually attacking him. Alternate translation: "have prepared to attack me" or "are attacking me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

pitiless men

"men who have no mercy"

have sought after my life

Seeking after someone's life represents trying to kill him. Alternate translation: "have tried to kill me" or "want to kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they have not set God before them

Setting God before them represents paying attention to God. Alternate translation: "they do not pay attention to God" or "they ignore God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 54:4

who upholds me

Defending David and keeping him safe is spoken of as upholding or supporting him. Alternate translation: "who defends me" or "who keeps me safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 54:5

He will repay my enemies with evil

Punishment is spoken as if it were payment. Alternate translation: "He will do the evil to my enemies that they have done to me" or "He will cause the evil that my enemies have done to me to be done to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in your faithfulness, destroy them

Here David changes from talking about God to talking to God. Alternate translation: "God, destroy them because you are faithful to me"

Psalms 54:6

I will give thanks to your name, Yahweh, for it is good

Yahweh's name represents him. Alternate translation: "I will give thanks to you, Yahweh, for you are good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 54:7

my eye has looked

The eye represents the person. Alternate translation: "I have looked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies

Possible meanings are 1) seeing that his enemies have been defeated. Alternate translation: "I have seen that my enemies have been defeated" or 2) defeating his enemies. Alternate translation: "I have defeated my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 55

Psalms 55:intro-0

Psalm 055 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 55 is a deliverance psalm. The psalmist is praying that God will deliver him from his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Betrayal

The author wishes he could get far away from his enemies after his best friend betrayed him. He asks God to completely destroy his enemies. He is trusting God to save him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

# Superscription

Psalms 55:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

on stringed instruments

"people should play stringed instruments with this song"

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1

Give ear to my prayer

Giving one's ear represents listening. Alternate translation: "Listen to my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

do not hide yourself from my plea

Refusing to pay attention to his plea is spoken of as hiding himself from it. Alternate translation: "do not ignore my plea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:2

General Information:

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Psalms 55:3

because of the voice of my enemies

Here "voice" represents what they say. Alternate translation: "because of what my enemies say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they bring trouble on me

Causing trouble is spoken of as bringing trouble. Alternate translation: "they cause me to have great troubles" or "they do wicked things to me and so I suffer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:4

My heart trembles within me

Here, "heart trembles" refers to his emotional pain and suffering. This suffering is because of fear. Alternate translation: "I am suffering because I am so afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the terrors of death have fallen on me

Becoming very afraid, or terrified, is spoken of as if terror is a thing that falls on a person. Alternate translation: "I am very much afraid that I will die" or "I am terrified that I will die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:5

Fearfulness and trembling have come on me

Becoming fearful and trembling is spoken of as if fearfulness and trembling are things that come on a person. Alternate translation: "I have become very fearful and I tremble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

horror has overwhelmed me

Feeling horror is spoken of as if horror were a thing that can cover people. Alternate translation: "I feel terrible horror" or "I am extremely afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:6

Oh, if only I had wings like a dove!

This exclamation expresses something the writer wishes for very much. Alternate translation: "I wish very much that I had wings like a dove" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

Then would I fly away

"If I did have wings, I would fly away"

Psalms 55:7

See, then I would wander

"I would do that and more: I would wander"

Psalms 55:8

General Information:

The writer finishes telling about what he had said.

tempest

a strong storm

Psalms 55:9

Devour them

Destroying something is spoken of as eating all of it. Possible meanings are "Destroy my enemies' plans" or "Destroy my enemies." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

confuse their language

"Language" here represents what the people were saying to each other, and probably refers specifically to them talking about plans to do evil. Confusing it represents making the people unable to understand each other. Alternate translation: "confuse them when they speak to each other" or "confuse their plans" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 55:10

they go about on its walls

"violence and strife go about on her walls" (Psalms 55:9). Violence and strife are spoken of as if they were people. This can be expressed by telling about the people who cause violence and strife. Alternate translation: "people walk about on the city's walls, being violent and fighting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

on its walls

"along the tops of the city walls." Cities had thick walls around them to protect them from enemies. People could walk along the tops of the walls to see if any enemies were coming to the city.

wickedness and trouble are in the middle of it

Wickedness and trouble are spoken of as if they were people. This can be expressed by telling about the people who do wickedness and trouble. Alternate translation: "people do wickedness and cause trouble in the middle of the city" or "people do sinful things and cause trouble in it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 55:11

Wickedness is in the middle of it

Wickedness is spoken of as if it were a person. This can be expressed by telling about the people who do wicked things. Alternate translation: "People do wicked things in the middle of the city" or "people destroy things in the city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

oppression and deceit do not leave its streets

Oppression and deceit are spoken of as if they were people. This can be expressed by telling about the people who oppress and deceive others. Alternate translation: "People oppress and deceive others in the city streets, and they do not leave" or "People are always oppressing and deceiving others in the city streets" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

its streets

This may refer to the marketplaces in the city.

Psalms 55:12

I could have borne it

Tolerating or enduring a rebuke is spoken of as bearing or carrying it. Alternate translation: "I could have tolerated the rebuke" or "I would not be so sad about the rebuke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

raised himself up against me

Being proud of oneself and insulting another is spoken of as raising oneself up against another. Alternate translation: "insulted me" or "despised me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:13

But it was you

The psalmist speaks as though the person who had rebuked and taunted him were there listening to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

myself, my companion and my close friend

This can be divided and a new sentence begun. Alternate translation: "myself. You were my companion and my close friend"

Psalms 55:14

We

The word "we" refers to the psalmist and his friend.

with the throng

Possible meanings are 1) "together" or 2) "with the crowd."

Psalms 55:15

Let death come suddenly on them

Death is spoken of as if it were a person that could attack people. Alternate translation: "Let my enemies die suddenly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

let them go down alive to Sheol

Dying suddenly is spoken of as if people were to go to Sheol so fast that they do not even die first. Alternate translation: "let them suddenly go to Sheol" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

wickedness is where they live

Wickedness is spoken of as if it were a thing that could be in a certain place. The habitual wickedness of his enemies is spoken of as if wickedness were with them or near them. Alternate translation: "they always do wicked things where they live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

right among them

This phrase intensifies the idea of wickedness being very near them. Here wickedness is spoken of as being not only in their homes, but right where they are. Alternate translation: "They always do wicked things wherever they are" or "wherever they are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:16

As for me

This phrase shows that the writer has stopped talking about one thing and is now about to talk about himself. Alternate translation: "But I"

Psalms 55:17

moan

the sound people and animals make when they are in pain

he will hear my voice

Here "voice" represents either 1) the psalmist or 2) the psalmist's complaints and moans. Alternate translation: "he will hear me" or "he will hear my moaning" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 55:18

my life

Here "my life" represents the psalmist. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for those who fought against me were many

"for many people fought against me"

Psalms 55:19

will hear them

"will hear my enemies" or "will hear what my enemies say." Some versions say "will hear me."

humiliate them

How God will humiliate them can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "will defeat and humiliate them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 55:20

has raised his hands against those

Raising the hand against people represents attacking them. This may be a metaphor for saying things that put people in danger or cause them trouble. Alternate translation: "has attacked those" or "has betrayed those" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:21

His mouth

Someone's "mouth" represents what he says. Alternate translation: "What my friend said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

His mouth was smooth as butter

Speech that is pleasant or nice to hear is spoken of as if it were smooth and easy to swallow. Alternate translation: "What he said was pleasant like smooth butter" or "He said nice things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

was hostile

"was mean" or "was hateful"

his words

"what he said"

his words were softer than oil

People put oil on their skin to make it feel nice, and they put it on wounds to help them heal. Speech that is kind or helpful is spoken of as if it were soft or soothing. Alternate translation: "what he said was kind and soothing like oil" or "he said kind things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they were actually drawn swords

Speech that causes people trouble is spoken of as if it were swords that wound people. Alternate translation: "what he said wounded people as drawn swords do" or "what he said caused people trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

drawn swords

The word "drawn" here means that the swords were pulled out of their covers and ready to be used.

Psalms 55:22

Place your burdens

Here the psalmist is speaking to other godly people.

Place your burdens on Yahweh

Here troubles are spoken of as if they were burdens that people have to carry. Trusting God to help us when we have troubles is spoken of as putting our burdens on him so that he can carry them for us. Alternate translation: "Give Yahweh your problems" or "Trust God to help you with all your troubles like someone who trusts a stronger person to carry his load" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will sustain you

Taking care of someone or helping someone when he has troubles is spoken of as supporting him. Alternate translation: "he will take care of you" or "he will help you"

he will never allow a righteous person to totter

A person who is about to be severely harmed by some sort of disaster is spoken of as if he is tottering or swaying and is about to fall down. Alternate translation: "he will not let a righteous person sway and fall down" or "he will not let a righteous person to be destroyed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 55:23

But you, God

The author speaks to God now.

the pit of destruction

This probably refers to the grave or hell.

will bring the wicked down into the pit of destruction

This represents causing people to die. Alternate translation: "will cause the wicked to die" or "will cause wicked people to die and go to the place where dead people are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

bloodthirsty and deceitful men

"people who lie and who want to kill others" or "deceitful murderers"

even half as long as others

"even half as long as other people live"

Psalms 56

Psalms 56:intro-0

Psalm 056 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 56 is a psalm of deliverance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Fear

Although the psalmist's enemies are trying to harm him, he is not afraid because God is protecting him.

# Superscription

The word "Michtam" is used in the superscription for this psalm. There is much discussion about this word but, in the end, no one is certain what it means. It is easiest to transliterate this word into your language, or you can simply translate it as "psalm."

Psalms 56:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship;"

set to Jonath elem rehokim

This probably tells what musical style or tune to use when singing this psalm. Alternate translation: "Sing this psalm using the tune of 'Jonath elem rehokim'" or "Sing this using the Jonath elem rehokim style"

Jonath elem rehokim

This may mean "Dove on Distant Oak Trees." Translators may either write the meaning or copy the Hebrew words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

A michtam

The meaning of the word "michtam" is uncertain. You may use the word "psalm" instead. This can be written as: "This is a psalm that David wrote." See how you translated this in Psalms 16:1.

press their assault

"come closer and closer in order to attack me"

Psalms 56:2

My enemies trample me

The enemies' fierce attack is spoken of as if they were crushing his body by marching on it. Alternate translation: "My enemies attack me severely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 56:3

you

The word "you" refers to God.

Psalms 56:4

what can mere man do to me?

Here a question is used to show that the psalmist is not afraid of people, because they cannot seriously harm him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "mere man can do nothing to me!" or "mere man cannot harm me badly!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

mere man

"just humans" or "people." This implies that people are not powerful, but God is powerful.

Psalms 56:5

All the day long

"All the time"

they twist my words

Repeating what someone says but changing it a little so that it means something different is spoken of as twisting their words. Alternate translation: "they say that I said things than I did not say" or "they claim that I said things, but they lie" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all their thoughts are against me for evil

"they always have evil thoughts against me" or "they always think of evil things to do to me"

Psalms 56:6

they mark my steps

Watching what a person does in order to see how to cause him trouble is spoken of as watching his steps, just as someone who wants to capture a person watches where that person walks. Alternate translation: "they watch everything I do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

just as they have waited for my life

Waiting to kill someone is spoken of as waiting for his life. Alternate translation: "as they wait to kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 56:7

Do not let them escape doing iniquity

What they might escape can be sued clearly. Alternate translation: "Do not let them escape your punishment for their iniquity" or "Do not let them escape when you punish them for the wicked things they do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Bring down the peoples

Defeating the enemies is spoken of as bringing them down. Alternate translation: "Defeat the peoples" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 56:8

You number my wanderings

God's concern for the psalmist is spoken of as if God counted each time that the psalmist has walked in sadness and with no place to go for comfort. Alternate translation: "You care about all the times that I have been wandering alone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

put my tears into your bottle

God's concern for the psalmist is spoken of as if God saved the psalmist's tears in a bottle. The tears represent crying. Alternate translation: "you know how much I have cried and you care about me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

are they not in your book?

God's concern for the psalmist is spoken of as if he wrote the number of the psalmist's tears in his book. This question is used to remind God about how greatly he cares for the psalmist. Alternate translation: "you have written about them in your book!" or "you remember my cries!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]]and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 56:9

will turn back

"will retreat" or "will turn and run away"

God is for me

This means that God favors him. In this context it implies that God fights against the psalmist's enemies in order to protect him. Alternate translation: "God is fighting for me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 56:10

General Information:

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Psalms 56:11

What can anyone do to me?

Here a question is used to show that the psalmist is not afraid of people, because they cannot seriously harm him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "People can do nothing to me!" or "People cannot harm me badly!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 56:12

The duty to fulfill my vows to you is on me

Being obligated to do something is spoken of as if the duty to do something is on a person. Alternate translation: "I must fulfill my vows to you" or "I must do what I promised you I would do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 56:13

you have kept my feet from falling

The feet here represent the person. Falling here probably represents being killed by his enemies. Alternate translation: "you have kept me from falling" or "you have kept me from being killed by my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

so that I may walk before God

Living and being seen by God is spoken of as walking before God. Alternate translation: "so that I may live in God's presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the light of the living

Here "the light of the living" probably represents God's enabling people to live. Alternate translation: "with the life that you give" or "because you enable me to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 57

Psalms 57:intro-0

Psalm 057 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 57 is a psalm of deliverance. It praises God for the many times he has delivered David. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Fear

Since God is protecting the psalmist, he has nothing to fear from his enemies.

# Superscription

Psalms 57:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Al Tashheth

This probably tells what musical style or tune to use when singing the psalm. Alternate translation: "sing this psalm using the tune of 'Al Tashheth'" or "sing this using the Al Tashheth style"

Al Tashheth

This means "Do Not Destroy." Translators may either write the meaning or copy the Hebrew words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

A michtam

The meaning of the word "michtam" is uncertain. You may use the word "psalm" instead. This can be written as: "This is a psalm that David wrote." See how you translated this in Psalms 16:1.

I take refuge in you

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "I go to you for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I stay under your wings for protection

The psalmist speaks of God as if he were a mother bird that protects its babies by huddling them under its wings. Alternate translation: "I trust you to protect me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

until this destruction is over

The abstract noun "destruction" can be stated as "destructive." Alternate translation: "until this destructive storm is over" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 57:2

who does all things for me

This explains why he will cry out to God. It can be translated with "because." Alternate translation: "because he does all things for me"

Psalms 57:3

those who crush me

The enemies' fierce attack is spoken of as if they were crushing his body by marching on it. Alternate translation: "those who attack me severely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

God will send me his steadfast love and his faithfulness

God's being loving and faithful is spoken of as if he were sending his love and faithfulness. The abstract nouns "love" and "faithfulness" can be stated as "loving" and "trustworthy." Alternate translation: "God will be loving to me and trustworthy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 57:4

My life is among lions

The psalmist speaks of his enemies as if they were lions. Alternate translation: "I live among fierce enemies" or "Fierce enemies surround me like lions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who are ready to devour me

Destroying is spoken of as devouring or eating something up. Some versions understand the Hebrew text to mean "fiery beasts." Both images speak of his enemies as if they were wild beasts. Alternate translation: "those who are ready to destroy me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

people whose teeth are spears and arrows

The enemies' spears and arrows are spoken of as if they were lions' teeth. The psalmist continues to speak of his enemies as if they were lions. Alternate translation: "people who kill others with spears and arrows as lions kill with their sharp teeth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

spears and arrows

Since both of these terms are weapons, if your culture knows only one, it is acceptable to use it alone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

whose tongues are sharp swords

The tongue represents what someone says, and the enemies' cruel words are spoken of as if they were swords. Alternate translation: "whose cruel words are like sharp swords" or "who cause terrible trouble for me by what they say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 57:5

Be exalted, God, above the heavens

The psalmist is asking God to show that he is exalted. Being exalted above the heavens represents being great. Alternate translation: "God, show that you are exalted above the heavens" or "God, show that you are great in the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let your glory be above all the earth

The psalmist is asking God to show his glory. Alternate translation: "show your glory over all the earth"

Psalms 57:6

They spread out a net for my feet

His enemies' plans to capture him are spoken of as if they had spread out a net on the ground to trap him. Alternate translation: "It is as though my enemies have spread a net out to trap me" or "They planned to capture me like people who spread out a net to trap an animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They dug a pit in front of me

His enemies' plans to capture him are spoken of as if they had dug a pit for him to fall into. Alternate translation: "It is as though they dug a pit for me to fall into" or "They planned to capture me like people who dig a hole in the ground to trap an animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They themselves have fallen into the middle of it

The harm that came to his enemies when they tried to capture him is spoken of as if they fell into the trap that they had made for him. Alternate translation: "They themselves fell into the pit they had dug for me" or "But they themselves were hurt by what they planned to do to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 57:7

My heart is fixed, God, my heart is fixed

Being confident is spoken of as one's heart being firm rather than shaken or easily moved. The phrase is repeated to show that he has complete confidence in God and will not change. Alternate translation: "I am completely confident in you, God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I will sing praises

Who he will sing to can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "I will sing praises to you, God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 57:8

Wake up, my glory

It can be stated clearly that the purpose of waking up is to sing praises to God. Waking up may be a metaphor for starting or preparing to do something. The heart represents the psalmist or his emotions. Alternate translation: "Wake up, my honored heart, to sing praises to God" or "I will prepare my honored heart to sing praises to God" or "I am honored to wake up and sing praises to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Wake up, lute and harp

It can be stated clearly that the purpose of waking up is to sing praises to God. The psalmist speaks as though the lute and harp were people who could wake up to sing praises to God. Alternate translation: "Wake up, lute and harp, and sing praises to God" or "I will play the lute and harp while I sing praises to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will wake up the dawn

The dawn is spoken of as if it were alive, and getting up before dawn happens is spoken of as waking it up. The purpose of getting up before dawn is to praise God. Alternate translation: "I will get up before dawn" or "I will get up before the sun rises" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 57:9

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 57:10

For great is your unfailing love, reaching to the heavens ... your faithfulness to the clouds

These two phrases are very similar in meaning. The greatness of God's unfailing love and the greatness of his faithfulness are spoken of as if they could be measured in distance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For great is your unfailing love, reaching to the heavens

The greatness of God's unfailing love is spoken of as if it could be measured in distance. Alternate translation: "Your unfailing love is as great as the distance from the earth to the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your faithfulness to the clouds

The words "great is your" and "reaching" are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "great is your faithfulness, reaching to the clouds" or "your faithfulness is as great as the distance from the earth to the clouds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 57:11

Be exalted, God, above the heavens

may your glory be exalted over all the earth

The psalmist is asking God to show his glory. Alternate translation: "show your glory over all the earth"

Psalms 58

Psalms 58:intro-0

Psalm 058 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 58 is a deliverance psalm. It asks God for deliverance from the unjust rulers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Deliverance

Although the leaders are very evil and unfair, God can deliver his people from their oppression. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/oppress.md]])

# Superscription

Psalms 58:1

General Information:

This psalm is a song about wicked people. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Al Tashheth

This probably tells what musical style or tune to use when singing the psalm. See how you translated this in Psalms 57:1.

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

Do you rulers speak righteousness?

The author uses this question to rebuke the rulers because they do not speak righteously. Alternate translation: "You rulers do not say what is right!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Do you judge uprightly, you people?

The author uses this question to rebuke the judges who do not judge uprightly. Alternate translation: "You people never judge people uprightly!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 58:2

you ... your

The words "you" and "your" refer to the mighty men who are judges (Psalm 58:1) and so is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

No

The author answers the two questions he had just asked.

you commit wickedness in your heart

The heart refers to the people's thoughts or plans. Alternate translation: "you commit wickedness in your thoughts" or "you think about doing wicked things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you distribute violence throughout the land with your hands

Doing violence in various places throughout the land is spoken of as distributing or spreading the violence throughout the land, as if violence were some kind of stuff or things. Alternate translation: "you yourselves do violent deeds everywhere in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 58:3

The wicked go astray even when they are in the womb ... they go astray from birth

This is the same idea expressed in two different ways. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

they go astray

Doing wrong things is spoken of as if people are walking on a road, and they turn off and go the wrong way. Alternate translation: "they do wrong things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 58:4

Their poison is like a snake's poison

The wicked things people say are spoken of as if they were poison. Alternate translation: "Their wicked words cause trouble as a snake's poison harms people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they are like a deaf adder that stops up its ears

Wicked people who do not listen to advice or rebukes are spoken of as if they were snakes that do not respond to a charmer's music. Alternate translation: "they refuse to listen like a deaf adder that stops up its ears" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

a deaf adder that stops up its ears

An adder that does not respond to a charmer's music is spoken of as as if it could put something in its ears so that it will not hear. Alternate translation: "an adder that does not listen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

adder

a kind of poisonous snake

Psalms 58:5

charmers

people who play or sing music in order to control snakes

no matter how skillful they are

What the snake charmers were skillful at can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "no matter how skillful the charmers are at controlling snakes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 58:6

General Information:

The author lists things that he would like God to do to wicked people.

Break their teeth ... break out the great teeth of the young lions

In both of these phrases, the wicked people are spoken of as if they were lions, and making them powerless to kill people is spoken of as breaking their teeth. Alternate translation: "Take away their power to kill. Make them powerless like young lions whose teeth have been broken and fallen out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 58:7

Let them melt away as water that runs off

The wicked people are spoken of as if they were ice or water. No longer existing is spoken of as melting or draining away into the dry ground. Alternate translation: "Make them disappear like water that runs off" or "Make them vanish like ice that melts and drains into the ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

let them be as though they had no points

"let their arrows be as though they had no points"

Psalms 58:8

Let them be like a snail that melts and passes away

No longer existing is spoken of as melting and disappearing. Alternate translation: "Let the wicked vanish like a snail that melts and no longer exists" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

snail

small animal that the Israelites considered unclean and that looks like it is melting as it moves by sliding over slime it has produced

like the untimely born child of a woman that never sees the sunlight

Not existing is spoken of as being like a baby that is born dead. Alternate translation: "like a baby who is born too early too live and see the sunlight" or "like a baby that was born dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 58:9

Before your pots can feel the thorn's burning heat ... the green thorns and the burning thorns alike

The wicked are spoken of as if they were thornbush branches, and God's swift punishment of them is spoken of as if he were to quickly blow them away or sweep them away. Alternate translation: "God will destroy wicked people faster than a whirlwind can blow away thornbush branches that have been put under a cooking pot and lit with fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your

David is speaking to God's people, so this is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the thorn's burning heat ... the green thorns and the burning thorns

"the heat from the burning thorn branches ... the green thorn branches and the burning thorn branches"

Psalms 58:10

The righteous will rejoice when he sees

The phrase "the righteous" refers to righteous people in general. Alternate translation: "Righteous people will rejoice when they see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

he will wash his feet in the blood of the wicked

Getting one's feet wet by walking on blood is spoken of as washing the feet in blood. Alternate translation: "the righteous will make their feet wet in the blood of the wicked" or "the righteous will march on the blood of the wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will wash his feet in the blood of the wicked

This exaggeration expresses that a great number of wicked people will die. Alternate translation: "so many wicked people will die that when the righteous march on their blood, it will seem as if they could wash their feet in it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 58:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 59

Psalms 59:intro-0

Psalm 059 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 59 is a deliverance psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Protection

The author prays for God to defeat his enemies. God is his protector. Therefore, he will praise God.

# Superscription

Psalms 59:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Al Tashheth

This probably tells what musical style or tune to use when singing the psalm. See how you translated this in Psalms 57:1.

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

A michtam

The meaning of the word "michtam" is uncertain. You may use the word "psalm" instead. This can be written as: "This is a psalm that David wrote." See how you translated this in Psalms 16:1.

set me on high

A high place represents a safe place where his enemies cannot reach him. Alternate translation: "put me in a safe place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

rise up against me

Rising up against someone represents attacking him. Alternate translation: "attack me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 59:2

bloodthirsty men

The word "bloodthirsty" contains "blood," which refers to murder and "thirsty," which refers to desire. Alternate translation: "people who desire to kill" or "people who like to kill people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 59:3

they wait in ambush to take my life

David's enemies are in hiding and are waiting quietly for the time when they can attack him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 59:4

awake

Deciding to do something and beginning to do it is spoken of as waking up. Alternate translation: "do something" or "take action" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

and see

What he wants God to see can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "and see what is happening to me" or "and see what they are doing to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 59:5

arise

Deciding to do something and beginning to do it is spoken of as getting up. Alternate translation: "do something" or "take action" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

all the nations

The word "nations" here represents the people of the nations that do not honor God. Alternate translation: "the people of all the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 59:6

They return at evening

The word "they" refers to the wicked transgressors.

they howl like dogs

The psalmist speaks of his enemies threatening to attack people as if they were dogs howling, growling, or barking at people. Alternate translation: "they threaten to attack people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

go around the city

Why they go around the city can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "go around the city to attack anyone they find" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 59:7

See

Here the word "See" is being used to draw attention to something. Alternate translation: "Hear"

they belch out with their mouths

Saying terrible things is spoken of as belching. These terrible things may have been insults or threats. Alternate translation: "they say terrible things" or "they shout out terrible words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

belch

burp loudly; allow air from the stomach to come out of the mouth with a loud, rude noise

swords are in their lips

The cruel things that the wicked people were saying are spoken of as if they were swords. Alternate translation: "they say cruel things that cause people trouble as much as swords destroy people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Who hears us?

This question is used to show that they believed that God would not hear and punish them. Alternate translation: "No one can hear us!" or "Your God does not hear us!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 59:8

laugh at them

"laugh at them scornfully" or "mock them." God would laugh at them because they are worthless and powerless.

you hold all the nations in derision

"you ridicule all the nations" or "you know that the people of the nations are fools"

derision

ridicule

Psalms 59:9

my strength

God's being the psalmist's strength represents God protecting him. Alternate translation: "you are my strength" or "you are my protector" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you are my high tower

A high tower is a place that people could go to for shelter from their enemies. The psalmist speaks of God protecting him as if God were a strong, safe shelter. Alternate translation: "you protect me like a high tower" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 59:10

My God will meet me with his covenant faithfulness

This phrase implies that God will come to him in order to save him. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "My God, who is faithful to his covenant, will come to save me" or "My God will come to save me because he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my desire on my enemies

The abstract noun "desire" can be expressed with the verb "want." Alternate translation: "what I want to happen to my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 59:11

Scatter them

"Cause them to wander around"

our shield

God's protecting the righteous is spoken of as if God were a shield. Alternate translation: "our protector" or "the one who protects us like a shield" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 59:12

For the sins of their mouths and the words of their lips

The mouths and lips represent the things people say. Alternate translation: "Because they sin by what they say" or "Because of the sinful things they say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

let them be captured in their pride

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "let people capture them because of their pride" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

that they express

"that they say"

Psalms 59:13

Consume them in wrath, consume them so that they will be no more

Destroying them completely is spoken of either as burning them up or eating them. Alternate translation: "Be angry with them and destroy them completely so there will be no more of them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in Jacob

Jacob here refers to Israel. Alternate translation: "in Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to the ends of the earth

"to even the most distance places on earth." This represents all places on earth. Alternate translation: "everywhere on earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 59:14

howling like dogs

The psalmist speaks of his enemies threatening to attack people as if they were dogs howling, growling, or barking at people. Alternate translation: "threatening to attack us" or "threatening to attack us like wild dogs" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 59:15

satisfied

content, having everything they want

Psalms 59:16

you have been my high tower and a refuge

High towers and refuges are places that people can go to for shelter from their enemies. The psalmist speaks of God protecting him as if God were a strong, safe shelter. Alternate translation: "you have protected me like a high tower and a refuge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the day of my distress

"whenever I have had troubles"

Psalms 59:17

To you, my strength, I will sing praises

"To you, my strength" can be combined as one clause. Alternate translation: "You are my strength, so I will sing praises to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-sentences/01.md]])

my strength

God's being the psalmist's strength represents God protecting him. Alternate translation: "my protector" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for God is my high tower

High towers are places that people can go to for shelter from their enemies. The psalmist speaks of God protecting him as if God were a strong, safe shelter. Alternate translation: "you have protected me like a high tower" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the God of covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. This can be expressed in a separate sentence. Alternate translation: "He is the God who is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 60

Psalms 60:intro-0

Psalm 060 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 60 is a psalm of war.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Protection

God has preserved the land of Israel, and now he will give them victory over the countries of Moab and Edom.

Psalms 60:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Shushan Eduth

This probably tells what tune or musical style to use when singing the psalm. Alternate translation: "sing this psalm using the tune of 'Shushan Eduth'" or "sing this using the Shushan Eduth style"

Shushan Eduth

This means "Lily of the Promise." Translators may either write the meaning or copy the Hebrew words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

A michtam

The meaning of the word "michtam" is uncertain. You may use the word "psalm" instead. This can be written as: "This is a psalm that David wrote." See how you translated this in Psalms 16:1.

Aram Naharaim ... Aram Zobah

"Aram of the two rivers ... the Aramean nation of Zobah." These are places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Joab

This refers to Joab and the army that he led. Alternate translation: "Joab and his army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

twelve thousand Edomites

"12,000 Edomites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

you have cast us off

God's rejecting people is spoken of as if he had thrown them away. Alternate translation: "you have rejected us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you have broken through our defenses

God's allowing Israel's enemies to break through their defenses is spoken of as God himself had done it. Alternate translation: "you have allowed our enemies to break through our defenses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 60:2

Connecting Statement:

The psalmist continues speaking to God.

You have made the land tremble; you have torn it apart

The psalmist speaks of the disaster in his country as if it were an earthquake. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

heal its fissures

Making the people strong again is spoken of as repairing the fissures in the ground or walls. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

fissures

large cracks in the ground or walls

Psalms 60:3

You have made your people see difficult things

Here "see" represents "experience" or "suffer." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

drink the wine of staggering

Being helpless is spoken of as staggering around, barely able to stand upright. The abstract noun "staggering" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "the wine that makes us stagger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 60:4

you have set up a banner

God's guiding his people in battle is spoken of as if God were a human king or commander who had set up a banner for the army. Alternate translation: "you are like a king who sets up a banner" or "you command us in battle like a king who raises up a banner" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

banner

"battle flag." This is a flag that a king or commander would raise up on a pole to show that the army should gather.

to be displayed against those who carry the bow

This can be stated with an active clause. However some versions have different interpretations of this phrase. Alternate translation: "to display against those who carry the bow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to be displayed against those who carry the bow

The phrase "those who carry the bow" refers to the enemy soldiers in battle. Alternate translation: "to display when he takes his army into battle against your enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 60:5

with your right hand

God's right hand represents his power. Alternate translation: "by your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

answer me

Answering here represents responding to his request. Alternate translation: "respond to my request" or "answer my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 60:6

General Information:

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Psalms 60:7

Ephraim also is my helmet

God speaks of the tribe of Ephraim as if it were his army. The helmet symbolizes equipment for war. Alternate translation: "Ephraim is like a helmet I have chosen" or "the tribe of Ephraim is my army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

helmet

a hard hat that soldiers wear to protect their heads from injury

Judah is my scepter

God chose men from the tribe of Judah to be the kings of his people, and he speaks of that tribe as if it were his scepter. Alternate translation: "the tribe of Judah is like my scepter" or "Judah is the tribe through whom I rule my people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 60:8

Moab is my washbasin

God speaks of Moab being unimportant as if Moab were a washbasin or a lowly servant. Alternate translation: "Moab is like a bowl that I use for washing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

over Edom I will throw my shoe

God was probably speaking of taking ownership of Edom as if he were symbolically throwing his shoe onto that land to show that he owns it. However some versions have other interpretations. Alternate translation: "I take ownership of the land of Edom" or "I throw my shoe onto the land of Edom to show that it is mine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 60:9

General Information:

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Psalms 60:10

But you, God, have you not rejected us?

The psalmist uses this question to express his sadness that it seems that God has rejected them. Alternate translation: "But God, it seems like you have rejected us." or "God, you seem to have abandoned us." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

You do not go into battle with our army

The psalmist speaks of God helping their army as if God were to go and fight with them. Alternate translation: "you do not help our army when we go into battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 60:11

is futile

"is worthless"

Psalms 60:12

will triumph

"will defeat our enemies"

he will trample down our enemies

The psalmist speaks of God helping their army defeat their enemies as if God were to trample down the enemies. Alternate translation: "he will enable us to trample down our enemies" or "he will make us able to defeat our enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 61

Psalms 61:intro-0

Psalm 061 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 61 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Vow

The author has vowed to praise God every day of his life because God has blessed him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/vow.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Psalms 61:1

General Information:

This is a song about God's faithfulness. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

on a stringed instrument

"people should play a stringed instrument with this song"

Hear my cry, God; attend to my prayer

These clauses have a similar meaning. Alternate translation: "God, listen to me and answer my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 61:2

lead me to the rock that is higher than I

Here the writer speaks of God as if he were a high rock that he could climb for protection. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 61:3

you have been a refuge for me

Being a refuge is a metaphor for keeping someone safe. Alternate translation: "You have been like a safe place for me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a strong tower from the enemy

People sometimes hid in a strong tower from their enemies. Being a strong tower is a metaphor for keeping someone safe from his enemy. Alternate translation: "You have been like a strong tower to keep me safe from the enemy" or "You have protected me from my enemy like a strong tower" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 61:4

take refuge under the shelter of your wings

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Here there is a second metaphor that speaks of Yahweh's protection as if he was a hen protecting her baby chicks under her wings. Alternate translation: "go to you for protection as a chick is safe under the wings of its mother" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 61:5

you have given me the inheritance

The writer speaks of God's blessings as if they were an inheritance that he has received. Alternate translation: "you have given to me the blessings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who honor your name

Here "your name" means God himself. Alternate translation: "who honor you" or "who have an awesome respect for you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 61:6

You will prolong ... many generations

These two clauses have similar meanings. The idea is repeated for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

You will prolong the king's life

"You will extend the king's life" or "You will cause the king's life to last a long time"

his years will be like many generations

Here "years" refers to how long the king will live. Alternate translation: "he will live for many generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 61:7

He will reign before God forever

Here to "reign before God" means that God will approve of what the king does and bless him for ruling with justice. Some versions translate this as the speaker's desire: "I desire that the king reign before God forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

appoint your steadfast love and faithfulness to protect him

The abstract nouns "love" and "faithfulness" are spoken of as if they were guards that would protect the king. Alternate translation: "always protect him because you love him and are faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 61:8

I will sing praise to your name forever

Here "name" stands for God himself. Alternate translation: "I will always sing praise to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my vows

These refer to the promise to offer sacrifices to God every day.

Psalms 62

Psalms 62:intro-0

Psalm 062 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 62 is a psalm of deliverance. It expresses trust that God will save the psalmist from his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

Although the psalmist's enemies have attacked him when he was feeling weak, he trusts in God to deliver him. God is powerful and kind.

Psalms 62:1

General Information:

This psalm is a song about God's faithfulness. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

Jeduthun

One of David's chief musicians had this same name. This may refer to him. See how you translated this in Psalms 39:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

my salvation comes from him

"he is the one who rescues me" or "he is the one who saves me"

Psalms 62:2

He alone is my rock and my salvation

The writer speaks of God's ability to protect him as if God were a rock. Alternate translation: "He is the only one who can protect and rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he is my high tower

The writer speaks of God's ability to protect him as if God were a high tower. Alternate translation: "he keeps me away from the grasp of my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will not be greatly moved

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "nothing can ever move me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 62:3

all of you

"my enemies" or "all my enemies"

How long ... will you attack a man ... or a shaky fence?

David uses a rhetorical question to express his frustration. No answer is expected. Alternate translation: "It seems like my enemies will never stop attacking me. I feel that I am as weak against you as a leaning wall or a broken-down fence." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

attack a man

"attack me"

Psalms 62:4

They consult with him only to

"They intend to" or "They plan to"

consult with him ... bring him ... bless him ... curse him

In these verses, David is referring to himself by "him."

with their mouths

This refers to their speech or their words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in their hearts

This refers to their thoughts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 62:5

my hope is set on him

"for I place my hope in him"

Psalms 62:6

He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my high tower

The writer speaks of God as if he were a rock and a high tower. Both of these metaphors show how God provides protection from one's enemies. Here "salvation" means that God rescues the writer. See how you translated this in Psalms 62:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will not be moved

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "nothing can move me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 62:7

the rock of my strength and my refuge are in God

The writer speaks of God as if he were a rock that keeps one safe from his enemies. He also speaks of God as if he were a shelter that provides protection. Alternate translation: "God always gives me strength and protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 62:8

pour out your heart

This refers to telling God your inner feelings as if you were pouring out a liquid. Alternate translation: "give your deepest concerns to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

refuge for us

The word "us" refers to David and the people he is speaking to. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Psalms 62:9

men of low standing ... men of high standing are a lie

This refers to men of all levels of wealth and importance. The phrases "are vanity" and "are a lie" have the same meaning. One cannot confidently trust in anyone. Alternate translation: "you cannot place your trust in men, no matter how important they are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

weighed together, they are lighter than nothing

If you put all of these kinds of men together on a scale, they would have no weight. This means that they have no real value to you.

Psalms 62:10

oppression or robbery

These two words have basically the same meaning. You cannot trust in money that you get by taking it from other people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

for they will bear no fruit

The writer speaks of riches as if they were trees or vines that could bear fruit. Alternate translation: "for they will provide nothing good for you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not fix your heart on them

Here "fix your heart" is an idiom that means to desire something greatly. Alternate translation: "do not desire them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 62:11

God has spoken once, twice have I heard this

This means that God has said this more than once.

power belongs to God

God being characterized by power is spoken of as if power belonged to him. The abstract noun "power" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "God is powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 62:12

Also to you, Lord, belongs covenant faithfulness

God being characterized by covenant faithfulness is spoken of as if covenant faithfulness belonged to him. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "You, Lord, are also faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

for you pay back every person for what he has done

The writer speaks of God's rewards as if he were paying a wage for work. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 63

Psalms 63:intro-0

Psalm 063 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 63 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

The author praises God for who he is and for having protected him.

Psalms 63:1

General Information:

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

earnestly

sincerely

my soul thirsts for you, and my flesh longs for you

These two clauses have basically the same meaning and are used together to emphasize how greatly the writer desires to be with God. Alternate translation: "my whole being greatly desires to be with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

dry and weary land

"hot, dry desert"

Psalms 63:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 63:3

Because your covenant faithfulness is better than life, my lips

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adverb and the abstract noun "life" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "I value you being faithful to your covenant more than I value living, so my lips" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my lips will praise you

Here "my lips" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will praise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 63:4

I will lift up my hands in your name

Here "in your name" means "to you." Alternate translation: "I will worship you and pray to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 63:5

It will be as if I ate a meal of marrow and fatness

Here the writer speaks of knowing and worshiping God as being more satisfying than eating a good meal. Alternate translation: "I will be happier than a person who eats a meal of fat and choice food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

with joyful lips my mouth will praise you

Here "with joyful lips my mouth" represents the whole person who will praise God joyfully. Alternate translation: "I will praise you joyfully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 63:6

when I think about you on my bed ... in the night hours

These two clauses have the same meaning. The ideas are repeated to emphasize how much the writer thinks about God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 63:7

in the shadow of your wings I rejoice

The writer speaks of God as if he were a bird protecting its young under his wings. Alternate translation: "I rejoice because you protect me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 63:8

I cling to you

"I need you" or "I depend on you"

your right hand supports me

Here, the right hand is used as a symbol of strength and power. Alternate translation: "you support me" or "you lift me up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 63:9

will go down into the lowest parts of the earth

This means they will die and go to the place of the dead. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: "will die and descend into the place of the dead" or "will die and go down into the place of the dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 63:10

they will be given over to those whose hands use the sword

Here "the sword" represents death in battle, and "those whose hands use the sword" refers to enemies who kill them in battle. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will cause them to die in battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

they will become food for the jackals

Here "they" refers to the corpses of those who die in battle. Alternate translation: "jackals will eat their dead bodies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the jackals

"jackals" here are a kind of long-legged wild dog. They feed on carrion, game, and fruit.

Psalms 63:11

the king will

David is speaking about himself. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: "I, the king of Israel, will" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

swears by him ... proud of him

The word "him" refers to "God."

but the mouth of those who speak lies will be stopped up

Here "the mouth" represents the whole person. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "but God will silence the liars" or "but God will silence those who lie" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 64

Psalms 64:intro-0

Psalm 064 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 64 is a psalm of deliverance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Plotting of enemies

The author's enemies have plotted against him but God has saved him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 64:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

preserve

save

Psalms 64:2

Hide me from the secret plotting of evildoers

Here "Hide" represents protecting, and "the secret plotting of evildoers represents" represents the harm that evildoers secretly plan to do to David. Alternate translation: "Protect me from the harm that evil doers secretly plan to do to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from the commotion

The words "hide me" are understood from the previous phrase and can be repeated here. Alternate translation: "hide me from the commotion" or "protect me from the commotion"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the commotion of the doers of iniquity

Possible meanings are that "commotion" refers to 1) a noisy disturbance. Alternate translation: "the noisy disturbance that the doers of iniquity make" or 2) a crowd that makes a noisy disturbance. Alternate translation: "the noisy crowd of doers of iniquity"

Psalms 64:3

They have sharpened their tongues like swords

The writer speaks of his enemies' tongues as if they were as sharp as swords. Here "tongues" represents the harsh words that the enemies speak. Alternate translation: "The harsh things that they say hurt me like a sharp sword" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

arrows, bitter words

The writer speaks of his enemies' bitter words as if they were arrows being shot at him. Alternate translation: "bitter words which pierce me like arrows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 64:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 64:5

Who will see us?

The evildoers do not expect an answer to their question because they think no one will see them. Alternate translation: "No one will see what we are doing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 64:6

The inner thoughts and hearts of man are deep

The writer speaks of man's "inner thoughts" and "hearts of man" as if they were a deep body of water that no one can explore all the way to the bottom. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

inner thoughts ... hearts of man

Both of these phrases refer to man's private or inner thoughts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 64:7

General Information:

The writer continues to speak of the "evildoers" of Psalms 64:1.

But God will shoot them ... with his arrows

The writer speaks of God's punishment of the evildoers as if God were shooting arrows at them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 64:8

They will be made to stumble

The writer speaks of God's causing the evildoers' plans to fail as if God were making them stumble in their paths. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will make them stumble" or "God will cause their plans to fail" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

since their own tongues are against them

Here "tongues" represents the words that they say. Alternate translation: "since the words that they say are against them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 64:9

what he has done

"what God has done"

Psalms 64:10

take refuge in him

all the upright in heart will take pride in him

Here "upright in heart" is an idiom that means godly or righteous. Alternate translation: "all the people who are godly will praise him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 65

Psalms 65:intro-0

Psalm 065 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 65 is a psalm of praise to God.

Special concepts in this chapter

# God's power

God answered prayers and gave the people justice and hope. God created nature and controls it, sending rain so the grain and pastures grow well.

Psalms 65:1

General Information:

This psalm is a song of praise. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

For you, God in Zion, our praise waits

This speaks of praise as if it were a person who could act on its own. Alternate translation: "To you alone, God in Zion, we will offer our praise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

our vows will be carried out to you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "we will do what we have promised you that we would do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 65:2

General Information:

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Psalms 65:3

Iniquities prevail against us

David speaks about iniquity as if it were a person that is able to defeat or oppress. Alternate translation: "It is as if our own sins were defeating us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

you will forgive them

The word "them" refers to our "iniquities."

Psalms 65:4

whom you choose ... your courts

The words "you" and "your" in this verse refer to Yahweh.

live in your courts

This exaggeration expresses that the man is in the temple very frequently to worship Yahweh. Alternate translation: "worship often in your courts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

We will be satisfied with the goodness of your house, your holy temple

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The goodness of your house, your holy temple, will satisfy us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

We will be

Here the word "we" refers to David and the people of Israel, but not to God, to whom he is speaking. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

your house, your holy temple

"your house, which is your holy temple"

Psalms 65:5

In righteousness

"Because you are righteous"

you who are

"you are"

of all the ends of the earth ... across the sea

These two phrases have similar meanings. Alternate translation: "of all the people who live throughout the earth and across the sea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

of all the ends of the earth

This refers to the people who live all over the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 65:6

you who are belted with strength

The writer speaks of God as if he wore his strength like a belt. Alternate translation: "showing that you are very powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 65:7

the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves

These two phrases have the same meaning and are used together to create a vivid impression on the hearer or reader. Alternate translation: "the continuous roaring of the seas" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

roaring

a loud noise caused by the wind and waves

the commotion of the peoples

This is also something that God makes quiet.

commotion

loud noise

Psalms 65:8

evidence

proof or something that shows that another thing is true

you make the east and the west rejoice

The phrase "the east and the west" refers to the people who live all over the earth. Alternate translation: "you cause people everywhere to shout joyfully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 65:9

help the earth

This refers to the soil of the earth.

you greatly enrich it

"you make the soil very good so that good things will grow in it"

the river of God is full of water

This refers to the supply of water in the sky that God sends to water the earth and fill the streams. Alternate translation: "you fill the streams with water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 65:10

You ... you ... you ... you

The writer is speaking to Yahweh, so these words are all singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

its furrows

"the earth's furrows"

furrows

A furrow is a long narrow trench made in the ground for planting seeds or for watering the field where grains have been planted.

ridges

edges

Psalms 65:11

You ... your

The words "You" and "your" refer to Yahweh and so are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You crown the year with your goodness

Here the "year" is given the human quality of wearing a crown. Alternate translation: "You have honored the year with a good harvest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

your wagon tracks overflow with abundance

Yahweh making the soil so good and fertile that it produces an abundant harvest is spoken of as if Yahweh were traveling through an empty land in a cart, leaving abundant food behind wherever he goes. Alternate translation: "everywhere you have been, you have left abundant food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 65:12

The pastures ... drip with dew

There is so much dew in the pastures that they are said to drip with it. Alternate translation: "The pastures ... are full of dew" or "Much dew drips in the pastures of the wilderness"

the hills are clothed with joy

The writer speaks of the beauty of the hills as if they were joyful people, and of joy as if it were clothing. Alternate translation: "the hills are like people wearing joy" or "the hills are like joyful people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 65:13

The pastures are clothed with flocks

The writer speaks of the pastures as being so covered with flocks that it is like the pastures are wearing a garment.

pastures

a large field where animals feed on the grass

flocks

group of animals, such as sheep and goats

they shout for joy, and they sing

The pastures, hills and valleys are so bountiful, that they seem to shout and sing for joy. Alternate translation: "they are like joyful singing people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

they shout

The word "they" refers to the pastures and valleys.

Psalms 66

Psalms 66:intro-0

Psalm 066 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 66 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh saves

Just as God brought Israel through the wilderness, he took the author through hard times but saved him. The author will worship God by sacrificing animals to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 66:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth

A "joyful noise to God" represents singing and shouting praises to God. Alternate translation: "Let all the earth sing and shout joyfully to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

all the earth

This refers to all the people who live on the earth. Alternate translation: "everyone on earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 66:2

Sing out the glory of his name; make his praise glorious

These phrases have similar meanings and are used together to emphasize how wonderful God is. Alternate translation: "Sing about how wonderful God's name is; sing wonderful praise about how great God is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the glory of his name

God's name here represents God himself. Alternate translation: "his glory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 66:3

How terrifying are your deeds

The works of God cause us to be in awe and terrified because we know he is powerful and holy.

By the greatness of your power

"Because you have great power"

Psalms 66:4

All the earth will worship you

This refers to all of the people who live on the earth. Alternate translation: "All the people on earth will worship you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they will sing to your name

Here "your name" refers to God himself. Alternate translation: "they will praise and honor you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 66:5

he ... his

These words refer to God.

he is fearsome in his deeds toward the sons of mankind

"he causes people to feel fear and wonder when they see his deeds"

the sons of mankind

"humanity"

Psalms 66:6

He ... him

These words refer to God.

He turned the sea into dry land; they went through the river on foot

This refers to the crossing of the Red Sea. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

they went

The word "they" refers to God's people, the Israelites.

we rejoiced

The word "we" refers to the Israelites, their ancestors, David, and the people he is speaking to. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Psalms 66:7

He ... his

These words refer to God.

his eyes

These phrase "his eyes" refers to God himself. Alternate translation: "he sees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

let not the rebellious exalt themselves

"let not the rebellious people exalt themselves" or "let not the rebellious people be proud"

Psalms 66:8

Give blessing to God ... let the sound of his praise be heard

These two clauses have similar meanings. The idea is repeated to emphasize the importance of praising God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 66:9

us ... our

These words refer to David and the people he is speaking to. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

he does not permit our feet to slip

The writer speaks of God's protection as preventing his people from slipping as they walk or falling off a cliff. Alternate translation: "he has not allowed us to fall into disaster" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 66:10

General Information:

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Psalms 66:11

You brought us into a net

The writer speaks of God's punishment as if God had captured his people in a net. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a net

a trap for a bird or an animal

you laid a heavy burden on our backs

The writer speaks of what the people have endured as having to carry heavy loads on their backs. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 66:12

You made people ride over our heads

This is a picture of being horribly defeated in battle. Alternate translation: "It is as if our enemies defeated us in battle and then drove their chariots over our fallen bodies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

went through fire and water

God tested them with natural disasters like fires and floods. Alternate translation: "we suffered like people who suffer from fires and floods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

spacious place

The writer speaks of the blessings that the people of Israel now have as if they had been brought into a wide open space where they are safe. Alternate translation: "open place where we are safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 66:13

General Information:

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Psalms 66:14

which my lips promised and my mouth spoke

Here "lips" and "mouth" refer to the words of promise that were spoken. Alternate translation: "which I promised" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 66:15

aroma of rams

"smell of the smoke of sacrificed rams"

Psalms 66:16

I will declare what he has done for my soul

The word "soul" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will tell you what he has done for me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 66:17

I cried to him with my mouth

The word "mouth" represents the whole person who cries out to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

he was praised with my tongue

Here "tongue" represents words or speech. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I praised him with my tongue" or "I praised him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 66:18

seen sin

"loved sin" or "held iniquity"

would not have listened to me

Here "would not have listened" implies that God would not have answered his prayer. This can be made clear in the translation. Alternate translation: "would not have heard me call out to him" or "he would not have answered my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 66:19

But God has truly heard; he has paid attention

These two clauses have similar meanings and are used together to emphasize that God has heard his prayer. Alternate translation: "But God has truly heard my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the voice of my prayer

Here the author's prayer is given the personal quality of having a voice. Alternate translation: "my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 66:20

who has not turned away my prayer

Here "turned away' represents ignoring his prayer. Alternate translation: "who has not ignored my prayer"

or his covenant faithfulness from me

The phrase "has not turned away" is understood from the previous phrase and can be repeated here. The idea of "his covenant faithfulness" can be translated with the phrase "being faithful to his covenant." Alternate translation: "and has not turned away his covenant faithfulness from me" or "and has not stopped being faithful to his covenant with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 67

Psalms 67:intro-0

Psalm 067 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 67 is a worship psalm.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

People all over the world should be praising God.

Psalms 67:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

on stringed instruments

"people should play stringed instruments with this song"

cause his face to shine on us

Psalms 67:2

your ways may be known on earth

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people may know your ways on earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your salvation among all nations

The writer desires for everyone to know that God has the power to save them. This can be made clear in the translation. Alternate translation: "and the people of all nations may know that you have the power to save them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 67:3

General Information:

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Psalms 67:4

let the nations ... govern the nations

Here "nations" represents the people who live in all the nations on the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

with justice

"fairly" or "justly"

Psalms 67:5

Let the peoples praise you ... let all the peoples praise you

The second clause intensifies the meaning of the first to emphasize how important it is to praise God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 67:6

The earth has yielded its harvest

Here the writer speaks of "the earth" as if it has chosen to provide a harvest to the people. Alternate translation: "We have reaped a bountiful harvest from our crops" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 67:7

all the ends of the earth honor him

This means that people everywhere should honor God because of his blessings. Alternate translation: "I desire that all people everywhere on the earth may have an awesome respect for him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 68

Psalms 68:intro-0

Psalm 068 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 68 is a worship psalm.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's greatness

God is exceedingly great. He takes care of the weak and helpless. He is glorious in his temple. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/glory.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]])

# No Common Theme

Scholars have found this psalm the most difficult to interpret. There does not appear to be any unity to this psalm.

Psalms 68:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

Let God arise

God beginning to act is spoke of as if he stands up. Alternate translation: "Let God begin to act" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let his enemies be scattered

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "let God chase away his enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 68:2

As smoke is driven away, so drive them away

God's enemies are spoken of as if they are smoke that is easily blown away by the wind. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Drive them away as the wind blows away smoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

as wax melts before the fire

God's enemies are spoken of as if they are wax that is easily melted by a fire. Alternate translation: "cause them to disappear as wax melts before a fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the wicked

This refers to the wicked people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 68:3

the righteous

This refers to the righteous people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

rejoice and be happy

These means the same thing and emphasizes the amount of joy they feel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 68:4

to his name

This refers to God. Alternate translation: "to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the one who rides through the plains

God's presence among people is spoken of as if he rides on the earth in a horse or chariot. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:5

A father of the fatherless

God is spoken of as a compassionate God who acts like a father to orphans. Alternate translation: "One who acts like a father to children who have no parents" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a judge of the widows

God is spoken of as a merciful God who protects widows. Alternate translation: "a protector of widows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:6

God puts the lonely into families

God is spoken of as if he places lonely people into families. "God provides families for those who have no one to live with" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he brings out the prisoners with singing

God is spoken of as the one who leads prisoners out of their confinement. Alternate translation: "God frees prisoners and makes them sing with happiness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the rebellious

This nominal adjective refers to rebellious people and can be translated with either an adjective or a noun. Alternate translation: "rebellious people" or "people who rebel against him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

a parched land

God's punishment of the rebellious is spoken of as if he forces them to live in a hot desert land. Alternate translation: "a very hot and dry land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:7

General Information:

David begins to tell the story of God leading the Israelites through the desert to Mt. Sinai.

when you went out ... when you marched through

These two phrases refer to the same event. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

you went out before your people

"you led your people"

when you marched through the wilderness

God is spoken of as if he was a soldier marching ahead of the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:8

the heavens also dropped rain ... God's presence

"God caused it to rain"

in the presence of God

This idiom here refers to God's appearance before the Israelites. Alternate translation: "when God appeared to the Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 68:9

you strengthened your inheritance when it was weary

The land of Israel is spoken of as if it was a person who could be weary, or could gain strength. Alternate translation: "you caused the land to produce good crops" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your inheritance

The land that God gave to the Israelites is spoken of as if it was an inheritance that a father passed on to his children. Alternate translation: "the land that you gave to us Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:10

the poor

This refers to poor people in general. Alternate translation: "poor people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 68:11

General Information:

David continues the story of the journey of the Israelites through the desert. In this part of the story, the Israelites are victorious in war over their enemies.

those who announced them ... army

The large number of people told the Lord's message to others. They are spoken of as if there were a large army. Since this phrase is feminine, some versions translate it as, "the women who announced them ... army." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:12

Kings of armies flee, they flee

The kings represent themselves and their entire armies. It is understood that they flee because they are defeated by Israel's army. Alternate translation: "Kings and their armies flee from us because they are defeated" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

plunder

things that are taken from the defeated army and brought to the victorious army's home.

Psalms 68:13

the wings of a dove are covered with silver ... gold

This means that some of the plunder is very valuable because it is covered with precious metals.

Psalms 68:14

scattered kings there ... snowed on Mount Zalmon

There were so many dead kings and soldiers on the mountain that they are spoken of as if they were snow covering the mountain. Alternate translation: "defeated so many enemy kings and soldiers there that they were like snowflakes covering Mount Zalmon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

scattered kings

Here "kings" refers to their armies as well. Alternate translation: "scattered the enemy kings and their armies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Mount Zalmon

This is the name of a mountain. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 68:15

A mighty mountain is the ... a high mountain is the

These two phrase have similar meanings and are used together to strengthen each other. Alternate translation: "a mighty and high mountain is the hill country of Bashan" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 68:16

Why do you look in envy ... for the place he will live?

This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: "The high hill country of Bashan should not look in envy at the mountain which God desires for the place he will live." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 68:17

twenty thousand, thousands upon thousands

This is probably not meant to be an exact number, but to indicate a large number. Alternate translation: "many thousands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Psalms 68:18

ascended

To "ascend" is to to move up, to go toward the sky.

Psalms 68:19

daily bears our burdens

"carries our heavy loads every day." The Lord's care for his people is spoken of as if he was physically carrying their troubles as a burden. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the God who is our salvation

The words "is our salvation" can be translated with the verb "save." Alternate translation: "the God who saves us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 68:20

General Information:

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Psalms 68:21

will strike through the heads of his enemies

God is spoken of as a warrior who will kill his enemies by striking them in their heads in order to kill them. Alternate translation: "will kill his enemies by striking them in the head" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the hairy scalps

It seems to have been the custom for soldiers not to cut their hair during the time of war. Alternate translation: "the long-haired skulls" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

walk in offenses against him

Offending God is spoken of as walking among the offenses. Alternate translation: "habitually offend him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:22

I will bring them back

The word "them" refers to God's enemies.

the depths of the sea

This speaks of the most remote parts of the earth where people might try to escape from God as if they were the depths of the sea. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:23

crush your enemies

The total destruction of Israel's enemies is spoken of as if the Israelites had crushed them under their feet. Alternate translation: "totally defeat your enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

dipping your foot in blood

The violence of from the destruction of the enemies is spoke of in very graphic form, as if the Israelites would be standing in the blood of their dead enemies. Alternate translation: "stepping in their blood" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the tongues of your dogs may have their share

The bloodshed from the battle against Israel's enemies is spoken of as if it is so extensive that the dogs will lap up the flowing blood with their tongues. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 68:24

processions

A procession is a group of people walking together in an orderly manner as part of a ceremony.

Psalms 68:25

minstrels

people who play musical instruments

Psalms 68:26

Bless God in the assemblies; praise Yahweh, you who are from the fountain of Israel

It may be helpful to change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: "You who are from the fountain of Israel, praise Yahweh and bless God in the assembly"

from the fountain of Israel

The word "fountain" is a metaphor for the ability of the man Israel to be the ancestor of many people: as much water comes from a fountain, so Israel is the ancestor of many people. This also implies that the call is to those who serve God as the man Israel did. Alternate translation: "true descendants of Israel" or "all of you descendants from Israel"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 68:27

their multitudes

"their group." The word "their" refers to the leaders of Judah.

Psalms 68:28

Your God, Israel, has decreed your strength

Some versions understand the Hebrew text differently: "Summon your strength, God" or "Use your strength, God"

Your God, Israel, has decreed

"People of Israel, your God has decreed"

to us

The word "us" refers to the writer and the people of Israel, but not to Yahweh, to whom he is speaking. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Psalms 68:29

to us

The word "us" refers to the writer and the people of Israel, but not to Yahweh, to whom he is speaking. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Reveal your power to us from your temple at Jerusalem

"When you are present in the temple at Jerusalem, show us your power"

Reveal your power

The abstract noun "power" can be stated as "strong." Alternate translation: "Show us that you are strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 68:30

the wild beasts in the reeds

Many scholars believe these wild beasts are a metaphor that refers to the people of Egypt. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "the people of Egypt who are like wild beasts in the reeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the peoples, that multitude of bulls and calves

The peoples of other nations are spoken of as if they were a large group of cattle. Alternate translation: "the powerful nations, who are like herds of bulls" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

scatter

to disperse or to cause something to spread quickly in different direction

Psalms 68:31

Princes will come out of Egypt

It is implied that these princes come from Egypt in order to offer gifts to God in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "Then the leaders of Egypt will bring gifts to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Cush

This refers to the people of Cush. Alternate translation: "The Cushites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

reach out with her hands to God

This is a symbolic action that represents worship to God. Alternate translation: "lift up her hands to praise God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 68:32

you kingdoms of the earth

Here "kingdoms" refers to the citizens of the kingdoms. Alternate translation: "you people who are citizens of kingdoms all over the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 68:33

to him who rides on the heaven of heavens

These words further describe Yahweh verse 32 as if he rides in a chariot in the sky. Alternate translation: "to Yahweh, who rides across the sky in his chariot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he lifts up his voice with power

This idiom means he speaks powerfully. Alternate translation: "he shouts powerfully" or "he speaks loudly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 68:34

Ascribe strength to God

"Ascribe" means to give credit to someone. Alternate translation: "Strength belongs to God"

his strength is in the skies

The abstract noun "strength" can be stated as "powerful." Alternate translation: "in the skies he also shows that he is powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 68:35

God, you are fearsome in your holy place

Here the author speaks directly to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

strength and power

These two words mean basically these same thing. They emphasize how much strength God provides to his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 69

Psalms 69:intro-0

Psalm 069 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 69 is a psalm of deliverance. The author prays to be saved from his enemies and for them to be punished. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Deliverance

The author prays for God to rescue him from his enemies. They show him no mercy, and he asks God to show them no mercy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/mercy.md]])

Psalms 69:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Shoshannim

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 45:1.

for the waters have put my life in danger

The writer describes the troubles in his life as if he were drowning in a flood of water. Alternate translation: "for it feels like I am drowning in the waters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:2

I sink in deep mire

The writer describes the troubles in his life as if he were sinking in deep mud. Alternate translation: "For it feels like I am sinking in deep mud and will die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

mire

thick mud

there is no place to stand

The writer uses a negative statement to stress how unstable and uncertain his condition is. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

I have come into deep waters, where the floods flow over me

The writer describes his problems as if he was drowning in a deep, raging river. Alternate translation: "t feels like I am in deep waters, and the floodwaters flow over me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:3

weary

very tired

my eyes fail

This idiom means the writer has cried so much that his eyes do not see well any longer. Alternate translation: "my eyes are swollen from tears" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 69:4

more than the hairs on my head

This is an exaggeration to express how many enemies the writer has. Alternate translation: "more than I can count, like the hairs on my head" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

cut me off

This idiom means "kill me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 69:5

my foolishness

The abstract noun "foolishness" can be stated as "foolish." Alternate translation: "the foolish things that I have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my sins are not hidden from you

This can be expressed as a positive statement. Alternate translation: "you know all my sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 69:6

Let not those ... let not those

"Do not let those ... do not let those"

Let not those who hope in you be put to shame because of me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Please do not allow anyone to put those who wait for you to shame because of me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

let not those who seek you be brought to dishonor because of me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Please do not allow anyone to bring dishonor on those who seek you because of me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

those who seek you

Seeking God represents either 1) asking God for help or 2) thinking about God and obeying him. Alternate translation: 1) "those who ask you for help" or 2) "those who worship and obey you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:7

For your sake

"On your behalf" or "For you"

I have borne rebuke

The rebukes of the writer's enemies are spoken of as if they are a heavy load that he has had to carry. Alternate translation: "I have endured the insults of my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

shame has covered my face

The writer speaks of the shame that he feels as if it is a foul thing on his face that everyone can clearly see. Alternate translation: "I am thoroughly humiliated" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:8

I have become a stranger to my brothers

The writer speaks of himself as if he were not part of his own family. Alternate translation: "My brothers no longer know or accept me at all" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a stranger to my brothers ... an alien to my mother's children

These two phrases mean the same thing. They are repeated to stress his separation from his own family. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

an alien to my mother's children

It is implied that "I have become" should be understood here. The writer speaks of himself as if he were not part of his own family. Alternate translation: "my brothers no longer know or trust me at all" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:9

the zeal of your house has eaten me up

The writer speaks of his zeal for God's temple as if it was a wild animal that devours the writer. Alternate translation: "the zeal I have for your house consumes me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

has eaten me up

This idiom means that the writer's zeal for the temple takes over all of his thoughts and actions. Alternate translation: "completely controls all that I think and do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the rebukes ... have fallen on me

The writer speaks of the rebukes of Gods' enemies as if they were rocks that were thrown at the writer. Alternate translation: "those who rebuke you have also thrown their rebukes at me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:10

I wept and did not eat food

The fact that the writer was fasting indicates that he was sad about the way people treated God's temple. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

they insulted me

"my enemies rebuked me because of it"

Psalms 69:11

I made sackcloth my clothing

Wearing rough, cheap clothing was a symbol of mourning over sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

I became the object of a proverb

The writer speak of himself as if he was the sad or foolish person in a proverb. Alternate translation: "I became the example of a sad person spoken of in their proverbs" or "they laugh at me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:12

Those who sit in the city gate

Here "city gate" is associated with leadership of a town. Alternate translation: "The important people of the city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I am a song of drunkards

The writer speaks of himself as if he was the person about whom the drunkards sing mocking songs. Alternate translation: "the drunkards of the city sing disgusting songs about me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:13

at a time that you will accept

"in your accepted time" or "when you are willing"

answer me in the trustworthiness of your salvation

The abstract nouns "trustworthiness" and "salvation" can be stated as "faithfully" and "rescue." Alternate translation: "rescue me because you faithfully love me, as you have promised to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 69:14

Pull me out ... do not let me sink

These two phrases mean the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Pull me out of the mire, and do not let me sink

The writer speaks of his danger from his enemies as if he was sinking into a pit of mud. "Do not allow me to sink anymore in the mud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let me be taken away

Here "take away" refers to being removed from danger. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "take me away" or "rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

rescued out

It is understood that "let me be" is implied here. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "please rescue me out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

rescued out of the deep waters

The writer speaks about his danger from his enemies as if he was drowning in deep water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:15

the floods of water overwhelm me

The writer speaks about his danger from his enemies as if flood waters were covering him completely. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the deep swallow me up

The writer speaks of the deep as if it was a deadly animal that was about to eat him. Alternate translation: "the deep waters swallow me up like a dangerous animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Do not let the pit shut its mouth on me

Here the "pit" is spoken of as if it has a mouth like a person and could eat the writer. Alternate translation: "Do not let the pit consume me" or "Do not let the pit of death close over me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:16

your covenant faithfulness is good

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "you are good and faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your mercies for me are many

"you are very merciful to me"

turn to me

The idea of turning towards someone means to pay attention to them or help them. Alternate translation: "help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:17

Do not hide your face from your servant

To hide one's face means to refuse to hear or help someone. Alternate translation: "Please help your servant" or "Please help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in distress

"in great trouble"

Psalms 69:18

redeem me

The writer asks God to redeem him as if the writer were a slave whose freedom God could purchase. Alternate translation: "free me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

ransom me

The writer asks God to ransom him as if the writer were a captive whose release could be paid for with money. Alternate translation: "rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:19

my rebuke, my shame, and my dishonor

These abstract nouns can be stated as actions. Alternate translation: "how people have rebuked me, shamed me, and dishonored me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my adversaries are all before you

Here "before you" means that God sees and knows all about them. Alternate translation: "you know who all my enemies are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 69:20

broken my heart

This idiom means a person is extremely sad. Alternate translation: "offended me deeply" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I am full of heaviness

The writer's great sadness is spoken of as if he was full of a heavy weight. Alternate translation: "I am heavy with sorrow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to take pity

to feel sorrow or sadness

Psalms 69:21

They gave me poison for my food

This is probably figurative. The food that people gave to the writer was so bad that it tasted like poison. Alternate translation: "They gave me food that tasted like poison" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:22

Let their table before them become a snare ... let it become a trap

The writer would like for his enemies' food to completely ruin them as if they were small animals caught in a snare or a trap. Alternate translation: "May their food ruin them like a snare ... may it destroy them like a trap" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their table

This refers to food that was served on the tables, possibly at a feast. Alternate translation: "their own food" or "sacrificial feasts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 69:23

Let their eyes be darkened

The writer speaks of eyes that cannot see well as if they were darkened. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Please make them unable to see anything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

make their loins shake

Weak backs are spoken of as if they are shaking in weakness. Alternate translation: "cause their backs to be too weak for them to do anything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their loins

"their sides" or "their backs"

Psalms 69:24

Pour out your indignation on them

God's demonstration of his anger is described as if he poured it out on his enemies like water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

indignation

anger of a person who has suffered injustice

the fierceness of your anger

"your burning anger" or "your strong anger"

overtake them

God's judgment on his enemies is described as if he ran after them and caught them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 69:25

be a desolation

This abstract noun can be stated as "abandoned." Alternate translation: "become abandoned" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 69:26

they persecuted the one

"they persecuted the man"

you struck down

Here to be "struck down" refers to punishment. Alternate translation: "you punished" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

those you have wounded

Here to be "wounded" refers to causing them to suffer. Alternate translation: "those you have caused to suffer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 69:27

Accuse them of having committed iniquity after iniquity

"Keep making a record of all their sins"

iniquity after iniquity

"very many sins"

do not let them come into your righteous victory

To come into God's victory is an idiom that means to receive a reward from him. Alternate translation: "do not let them receive your righteous reward" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 69:28

Let them be blotted out of

Here "them" refers to the names of the enemies. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Wipe out their names in" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

not be written down

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "do not write down their names" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 69:29

let your salvation, God, set me up on high

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated with the verb "save." Here "on high" refers to a place of safety." Alternate translation: "God, save me and put me in a safe place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 69:30

the name of God

Here "name" refers to God himself. Alternate translation: "God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

with thanksgiving

This abstract noun can be stated with the verb "thank." Alternate translation: "by thanking him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 69:31

better than an ox or a bull

It is understood that the ox and the bull are to be offered to God as sacrifices. Alternate translation: "better than sacrificing an ox or sacrificing a bull" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

a bull that has horns and hooves

This phrase distinguishes the full grown bulls from other younger cows. Alternate translation: "a bull that is full grown with horns and hooves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-distinguish/01.md]])

Psalms 69:32

The meek

This refers to meek people in general. Alternate translation: "Meek people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

you who seek after God

Seeking God represents either 1) asking God for help or 2) thinking about God and obeying him. Alternate translation: "you who ask God for help" or "you who think about God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let your hearts live

Here "hearts" refer to the people. Here "live" is an idiom that means to be encouraged. Alternate translation: "may you be encouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 69:33

Yahweh hears

Here "hears" means to respond. Alternate translation: "Yahweh answers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the needy

This refers to needy people in general. Alternate translation: "needy people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

his prisoners

"those who have suffered for him"

Psalms 69:34

Let heaven and earth praise him ... the seas

Here heaven and earth and the seas are spoken of as if they are people who are able to praise God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the seas and everything that moves in them

It is implied that "Let ... praise him" should be understood here. Alternate translation: "let he seas and everything that moves in them praise him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 69:35

God will save Zion

Here "Zion" refers to the people in Zion. Alternate translation: "God will save the people of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

have it as a possession

The word "it" refers to the land of Judah.

Psalms 69:36

who love his name

Here "name" refers to God himself. Alternate translation: "who love God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 70

Psalms 70:intro-0

Psalm 070 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 70 is a psalm of deliverance. The psalmist asks God to deliver him from his enemies.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Help

The author needs help and needs it immediately.

# Psalm 40

This psalm is an almost exact duplicate of Psalm 40:13-17.

Psalms 70:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

A psalm of David

Possible meanings are 1) David wrote the psalm or 2) the psalm is about David or 3) the psalm is in the style of David's psalms.

Psalms 70:2

those who

"the people who"

take my life

This idiom means "kill me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

be ashamed and humiliated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "may God put them to shame and bring disgrace upon them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

let them be turned back and brought to dishonor

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "may God turn them around and make them ashamed for what they have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

turned back

To be stopped or thwarted is spoken of as being turned back from their attack. Alternate translation: "stopped" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 70:3

those who say, "Aha, aha."

This is an expression of mocking laughter. You may replace "Aha, aha" with whatever laughing sounds like in your language. Alternate translation: "those who mock and laugh at me"

Psalms 70:4

seek you

Seeking God represents either 1) asking God for help or 2) thinking about God and obeying him. Alternate translation: "ask you for help" or "think about you and obey you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

rejoice and be glad

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of gladness. Alternate translation: "rejoice greatly" or "be very glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

love your salvation

always say

This exaggeration emphasizes that it is important to praise God often. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

May God be praised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Let everyone praise God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 70:5

poor and needy

Here the words "poor" and "needy" mean basically the same thing and emphasize that he is unable to help himself. Alternate translation: "very needy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

hurry to me

The writer speaks of God as if he were running to the writer in order to help him. Alternate translation: "come quickly to help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you are my help and you rescue me

Here the phrase "you rescue me" explains how God is his "help." Alternate translation: "you help me by rescuing me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

do not delay

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "please come quickly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 71

Psalms 71:intro-0

Psalm 071 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 71 is a psalm of deliverance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

God has helped the psalmist all his life. Now that he is old, his enemy thinks that God has abandoned him; but the psalmist trusts in God and will praise Yahweh with songs of praise. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Psalms 71:1

General Information:

In you, Yahweh, I take refuge

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "go to you, Yahweh, for protection" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let me never be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. See how "do not let me be humiliated" is translated in Psalms 25:2. Alternate translation: "never let my enemies put me to shame" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 71:2

make me safe in your righteousness

Possible meanings are 1) "make me safe because you always do what is right" or 2) "make me safe as I do what you want me to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

turn your ear to me

Here "your ear" refers to God's willingness to hear someone who prays to him. See how this is translated in Psalms 17:6. Alternate translation: "pay attention to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

save me

"keep me safe"

Psalms 71:3

Be to me a rock for refuge

The psalmist requests that Yahweh make him as safe as he would be if he were hiding in a large rock or cliff where his enemies could not find him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

rock ... rock

These are hills or mountains, not rocks one can hold in one's hand.

you have given a command

"you have commanded your angels"

you are my rock and my fortress

The psalmist believes that Yahweh will protect him and make him as safe as if he were hiding on top of a large mountain or inside a man-made fortress. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 71:4

out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous

Possible meanings are 1) the word "hand" is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "from the power of the wicked, from the power of the unrighteous" or 2) "hand" refers to the person himself. Alternate translation: "from wicked people, from unrighteous ... people" or "so that wicked people and unrighteous ... people cannot harm me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous

"wicked; rescue me out of the hand of the unrighteous." You can make clear the understood information. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

wicked ... unrighteous ... cruel

These adjectives can be translated as noun phrases. Alternate translation: "wicked people ... unrighteous people ... cruel people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 71:5

you are my hope

Here "hope" is a metonym for the one in whom the psalmist hopes. Alternate translation: "you are the one whom I confidently expect to help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 71:6

By you I have been supported from the womb

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You have supported me from the womb" or "You have taken care of me ever since I came out of my mother's womb" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you are he

"you are the one"

Psalms 71:7

I am an example to many people

"Many people see how I live and want to live as I do"

Psalms 71:8

My mouth will be filled with your praise ... with your honor

The psalmist speaks of his desire to praise and honor Yahweh with the words he speaks as if his mouth were full of words the way it can be full of food. Alternate translation: "My mouth will be filled with words that praise you ... that honor you" or "I will always praise you ... will always honor you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

your praise

Here "praise" refer to the words that he will use to praise Yahweh. Alternate translation: "words that tell people how great you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your honor

Here "honor" refer to the words that he will use to honor Yahweh. Alternate translation: "words that cause people to honor you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

all the day

"all day long" or "at all times"

Psalms 71:9

Do not throw me away ... do not abandon me

These two phrases have basically the same meaning and are used together for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Do not throw me away

"Do not force me to go away from you." For God to reject him is spoken of as God forcing him to go away. See how this is translated in Psalms 51:11. Alternate translation: "do not reject me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not abandon me

"do not leave me forever"

Psalms 71:10

watch for my life

It is implied that they are watching for an opportunity to take his life. The euphemism "to take a life" means to kill. Alternate translation: "watch for an opportunity to take my life" or "wait for an opportunity to kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 71:11

They say

This can be translated to make explicit that they are talking about him. Alternate translation: "They say about me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

pursue and take him

"follow him when he runs away, and kill him"

Psalms 71:12

do not be far from me

hurry to help me

"help me soon"

Psalms 71:13

Let them be put to shame and destroyed, those who are hostile to my life

"Let those who are hostile to my life be put to shame and destroyed"

Let them be put to shame and destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Put them to shame and destroy them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

those who are hostile to my life

The words "my life" represent the person. The idiom "hostile to my life" means that these are people who try to harm him by accusing him of wrongdoing. Alternate translation: "those who accuse me of doing wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

let them be covered with rebuke and dishonor, those who seek my hurt

"let those who seek my hurt be covered with rebuke and dishonor"

let them be covered with rebuke and dishonor

This can be stated in active form. The abstract nouns "rebuke" and "dishonor" can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: "may everyone rebuke them, and may no one honor them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

those who seek my hurt

The noun "hurt" can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: "those who are looking for ways to harm me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 71:14

more and more

"more all the time" or "always more than I have before"

Psalms 71:15

My mouth will tell about your righteousness and your salvation all the day, although I cannot understand it

"I do not completely understand your righteousness and your salvation, but my mouth will tell about them all the day"

My mouth will tell

The mouth is synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will tell" or "I will speak with my mouth and tell" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

your righteousness

This can be restated to remove the abstract noun "righteousness." Alternate translation: "how righteous you are" or "all the good things you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: "how you have saved me" or "how you save people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 71:16

I will come

Possible meanings are 1) "I will go to where people worship Yahweh" or 2) "I will go to my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-go/01.md]])

with the mighty acts of the Lord Yahweh

Possible meanings are 1) "I will tell them of the mighty deeds the Lord Yahweh has done" or 2) "because the Lord Yahweh has given me strength to do mighty acts."

will make mention of

"will talk about"

Psalms 71:17

taught me

The implied information may be stated clearly. "taught me many things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 71:18

God, do not forsake me

"God, please do not forsake me"

I have been declaring your strength

The abstract noun "strength" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "I have been telling how strong you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

to the next generation

"to those who are children today"

your power to everyone who is to come

The omitted information may be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "and as I declare your power to everyone who is to come" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

everyone who is to come

This exaggeration refers to everyone the writer can speak to. Alternate translation: "so as many people as I can tell will know" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 71:19

Your righteousness also, God, is very high

The psalmist speaks of the good things God has done as though they were put together as a high building or a mountain. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who is like you?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "there is no one like you!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 71:20

revive

strengthen or make lively again

from the depths of the earth

"The depths of the earth" here is a metaphor for where people go when they die. The psalmist had not already died, but in this exaggeration he speaks as if he had. Alternate translation: "when we are near death" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 71:21

May you increase ... turn again and comfort

"I want you to increase ... I want you to turn again and comfort." Some translations read, "You will increase ... you will turn again and comfort."

turn again and comfort me

This describes one action through two phrases. Alternate translation: "comfort me again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

Psalms 71:22

to you I will sing praises with the harp, Holy One of Israel

"to you, who is the Holy One of Israel, I will sing praises while I play the harp"

Psalms 71:23

My lips will shout for joy

"Lips" represent the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will shout for joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

even my soul, which you have redeemed

The words the psalmist has omitted can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "and my soul, which you have redeemed, will sing praises" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

my soul

Here "soul" refers to the whole person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 71:24

My tongue will also talk

Here "tongue" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will also talk" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

they have been put to shame and are confused, those who sought my hurt

"those who sought my hurt have been put to shame and are confused"

for they have been put to shame and are confused

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "for God has put to shame and confused them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

those who sought my hurt

This refers to the enemies of the writer. (Psalms 71:10). See how "those who seek my hurt" is translated in Psalms 71:13.

Psalms 72

Psalms 72:intro-0

Psalm 072 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 72 is a psalm for the king when he begins to be the king. David wrote it as a blessing on his son, Solomon. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Blessings for the king

May the king be honored throughout the world. May he help the poor. May there be prosperity while he is king.

# Close of Book Two

The whole collection of Psalms has been divided into several "books." This is the last psalm of the second book. It is attributed to Solomon, the son of David.

Psalms 72:1

General Information:

Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. Possible meanings for the header "a psalm of Solomon" are 1) David wrote this psalm about Solomon ("the king's son") or 2) Solomon (who, as David's son, was "the king's son") wrote this psalm as a prayer about himself or 3) another king wrote it about his son in the style of Solomon. People in those days would often speak of themselves as if they were someone else. However, it would be best to translate this as though the psalmist is speaking of someone else, not of himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Give the king your righteous decrees, God, your righteousness to the king's son

Possible meanings are 1) "Give me, the king, your righteous decrees, God, your righteousness to my son" or 2) "Give me, the king, your righteous decrees, God, your righteousness to me, the king's son." People in those days would often speak of themselves as if they were someone else. However, it would be best to translate this as though the psalmist is speaking of someone else, not of himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Give the king your righteous decrees

"Enable the king to judge rightly"

your righteousness to the king's son

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Here the word "righteousness" refers to making righteous decisions. Alternate translation: "give your righteousness to the king's son" or "enable the king's son to rule with righteousness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 72:2

May he judge

If David wrote this, he is talking about his son, "the king's son," he is speaking of the time when his son will be king. If Solomon wrote it, even though he is writing about himself, it would be best to translate as though he were writing about someone else. Either way, "May the king judge" is the best translation.

your people ... your poor

The psalmist is speaking to God.

your poor

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. The adjective "poor" refers to poor people. Alternate translation: "may he judge your poor people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 72:3

May the mountains produce peace ... may the hills produce righteousness

The psalmist speaks of the people of Israel as if they were the mountains and hills on which they live. He speaks of the mountains and the hills as if they were the entire land of Israel, as if that land were a garden that produces fruit, and of peace and righteousness as if they are that fruit. Alternate translation: "May the people of the land live in peace ... may they do everything in a righteous way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 72:4

he ... he

These refer to the one who will "judge" (Psalms 72:2).

break in pieces the oppressor

The writer speaks of the king defeating or punishing people who oppress others as if those people were objects that the king would break into pieces. Alternate translation: "punish the person who oppresses others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 72:5

while the sun endures, and as long as the moon lasts

The sun and the moon are metonyms for the day and the night, which together are a merism for all time. Alternate translation: "forever, and without ending" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 72:6

May he come down like rain on the mown grass

The king will be good, and he will do good things for his people as if he were rain doing good for freshly cut grass. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

May he come

"I desire that he come"

like showers that water

"May he come down like showers that water." The king will be good, and he will do good things for his people as if he were rain doing good for the ground. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 72:7

the righteous

The adjective "righteous" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

in his days

Possible meanings are 1) "while the king rules" or 2) "as long as the righteous person lives" or "as long as the righteous people live."

may there be an abundance of peace

The psalmist speaks as if peace were a physical object like food. An "abundance" is when there is much of something. This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns "abundance" and "peace." Alternate translation: "may righteous people live peacefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

till the moon is no more

"as long as the moon shines" or "forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 72:8

May he have dominion

"May the king have dominion"

from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth

Both of these expressions are merisms and refer to the whole earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

from sea to sea

from the Dead Sea and the Sea of Kinnereth in the east to the Mediterranean Sea in the west.

the River

"the Euphrates River," which the Israelites would travel to on land by going north

the ends of the earth

as far as people could travel on land by different routes to the south. The Israelites spoke of the earth as if it were a flat surface with ends. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 72:9

lick the dust

This is a metaphor for extreme humiliation. Alternate translation: "do everything they can so he will allow them to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 72:10

Tarshish

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

render

pay

offer gifts

"give gifts"

Seba

This is the name of a country. It is not the same country as Sheba. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 72:11

fall down before him

"bow down before him" or "honor him as their king"

all nations

Here the word "nations" represents the people who live in the nations. Alternate translation: "the people who live in every nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 72:12

no other helper

"no one else to help him"

Psalms 72:13

He has pity on the poor and needy

"He wants to stop the poor and needy from suffering"

the poor and needy

Here the nominal adjectives "poor" and "needy" mean basically the same thing and emphasize that they are unable to help themselves. Alternate translation: "those who are poor and those who are needy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 72:14

redeems their lives

Here "lives" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "redeems them" or "saves them" or "rescues them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

oppression and violence

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how badly the needy suffer. These abstract nouns can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: "those who oppress them and hurt them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

their blood is precious in his sight

Here "their blood" is a metonym for their well-being. The sight of Yahweh represents his judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "their well-being is very important to him" or "he wants them to live well" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in his sight

See how this phrase is translated in Psalms 19:14.

Psalms 72:15

May he live!

This saying was used to honor the king by expressing a desire to have him live a long time. Alternate translation: "May the king live a long time!" or "I desire that the king live a long time!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

May the gold of Sheba be given to him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May they give him the gold of Sheba" or "May he receive the gold of Sheba" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

all day long

This idiom means "continually" and does not refer only to one day. Alternate translation: "continually" or "all the time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 72:16

abundance of grain

An "abundance" is when there is much of something. This abstract noun can be stated as "much" or "plenty" Alternate translation: "much grain" or "plenty of grain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

crops

plants that people grow for food

wave

Use the word for what long grass does when a gentle wind blows on it and it moves slowly back and forth.

like Lebanon

"like the cedar trees in Lebanon." These trees were beautiful and had wood that was good for building. The meaning of this can be made clear. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the people flourish in the cities like the grass of the field

The prosperity of the people in the cities is spoken of as if they were grass that grows abundantly in the fields. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 72:17

May his name endure forever

This saying is used to honor God by expressing the desire for people to always remember him. Alternate translation: "May people always know about him" or "May people never forget who he is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

his name

Here "his name" refers to God's reputation. Alternate translation: "the king's name" or "the king's reputation" or "the king's fame" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

as long as the sun

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "as long as the sun endures" or "as long as the sun shines" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

may people be blessed in him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "may God cause him to do good things for people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

call him blessed

"recognize that God has blessed them"

Psalms 72:18

General Information:

These verses are more than the end of this psalm. It is the closing statement for all of Book 2 of the Psalms, which starts at Psalm 42 and ends with Psalm 72.

May Yahweh God, the God of Israel, be blessed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May people bless Yahweh God, the God of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 72:19

May his glorious name be blessed forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May people bless his glorious name forever" or, treating "name" as a metonym for Yahweh himself, "May people forever know how glorious he is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his glorious name be blessed

"he, who is glorious, be blessed"

may the whole earth be filled with his glory

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "may his glory fill the whole earth" or "may he fill the whole earth with his glory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Amen and Amen

The word "Amen" is repeated to emphasize approval of what has been said. See how you translated this in Psalms 41:13. Alternate translation: "May it certainly be so"

Psalms 72:20

The prayers of David son of Jesse are finished

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "David, the son of Jesse has finished his prayers" or "This is the last prayer of the David the son of Jesse" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 73

Psalms 73:intro-0

Psalm 073 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 73 is a wisdom psalm. It explains the problem of wicked people who seem to prosper. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Evil people

Sometimes it seems that wicked people have no problems and everything works for them. Despite this, they will be destroyed. In contrast, the righteous always have God to help them through problems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]])

# Psalms by Asaph

There are twelve psalms attributed to Asaph; the first one is Psalm 50, which is in Book Two, and the other eleven (Psalm 73–83) are at the beginning of Book Three.

Psalms 73:1

General Information:

Psalms 73:2

my feet almost slipped; my feet almost slipped out from under me

The psalmist speaks of being unable to trust God and wanting to sin as if he had almost fallen while walking on a slippery path. Alternate translation: "I almost stopped trusting in God; I was almost guilty of committing a great sin against him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 73:3

I was envious of the arrogant

"I envied the arrogant" or "I did not want arrogant people to have the good things that they had"

the arrogant

The adjective "arrogant" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "arrogant people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the prosperity of the wicked

The word "prosperity" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "how the wicked have so many good things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the wicked

The adjective "wicked" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 73:4

General Information:

Asaph begins to describe how he sometimes wants to complain to God about those who are "arrogant" and "wicked" (Psalms 73:3).

Psalms 73:5

the burdens of other men

The words "burdens" is a metonym for the struggles of daily life (need for food, shelter, clothing, and health). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they are not afflicted like other men

"they do not suffer the way other people do"

Psalms 73:6

General Information:

Asaph continues to describe how he sometimes wants to complain to God about those who are "arrogant" and "wicked" (Psalms 73:3).

Pride adorns them like a necklace around their neck; violence clothes them like a robe

This means the wicked show everyone how proud and violent they are as if they were wearing a necklace or beautiful robe. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

necklace ... robe

This refers to things that rich and important people wear.

necklace

a chain usually made of gold or jewels that goes around the neck

Psalms 73:7

Out of such blindness comes sin

Because they are like blind people who cannot see where they are going, they sin without knowing it. Being blind is a metaphor for a person being unable to see how wicked he is. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

evil thoughts pass through their hearts

Here the psalmist describes people's thoughts as if they were people. He also describes the inner beings of wicked people as if they were a building in which those people could walk. Alternate translation: "in their inner beings they are always thinking about more evil things to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 73:8

General Information:

Asaph continues to describe how he sometimes wants to complain to God about those who are "arrogant" and "wicked" (Psalms 73:3).

They mock

Whom they mock can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "They mock God and his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 73:9

They set their mouth against the heavens

Here "their mouth" is a metonym for their speech, and "heavens" is a metonym for God, who lives in the heavens. Alternate translation: "They speak against God, who is in the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

their tongues march through the earth

The word "tongues" represents the people themselves. Possible meanings are 1) "they go through the earth saying bad things about God" or "they go everywhere and boast about themselves." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 73:10

General Information:

Asaph continues to describe how he sometimes wants to complain to God about those who are "arrogant" and "wicked" (Psalms 73:3).

his people turn to them

Possible meanings are 1) "God's people love the wicked people" or "the wicked people return to this place"

abundant waters are drained out

Possible meanings are 1) "God's people listen gladly to the words of the wicked people" or 2) "the wicked people have plenty of food to eat and wine to drink"

Psalms 73:11

They say

the wicked people say

How does God know? Is there knowledge with the Most High?

These rhetorical questions are to show contempt for God. These questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: "Surely God does not know what we are doing. The Most High has no knowledge of it." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 73:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 73:13

General Information:

In verses 13 and 14, Asaph continues to describe how he sometimes wants to complain to God about those who are "arrogant" and "wicked" (Psalms 73:3). In verse 15 he begins to talk about what he is really thinking.

I have

The word "I" refers to Asaph.

guarded my heart

Asaph speaks of guarding his heart as if he were guarding a city or building against enemies. Alternate translation: "I have kept my thoughts pure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

washed my hands in innocence

The writer speaks of his purity as if he had washed his hands with innocence instead of with water. See how you translated this in Psalms 26:6. Alternate translation: "my actions have remained pure" or "I have washed my hands to show that I am innocent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 73:14

all the day long

"always" or "every day"

I have been afflicted

"You have made me suffer." See how "they are not afflicted" is translated in Psalms 73:5.

I have been ... disciplined

"I have been ... punished"

Psalms 73:15

If I had said, "I will say these things," then I would have betrayed this generation of your children

This statement describes something that could have happened in the past but did not. Alternate translation: "I never said, 'I will say these things,' so I did not betray this generation of your children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

Psalms 73:16

these things

The good things that happen to "the wicked" (Psalms 73:4-Psalms 12).

Psalms 73:17

their fate

"what happens to wicked people when they die" or "how wicked people die"

Psalms 73:18

put them

The word "them" refers to the wicked.

slippery places

"unsafe or unstable ground." See how "slipped" is translated in Psalms 73:2.

Psalms 73:19

How they become a wilderness in a moment

The word "wilderness" is a metaphor for a person who has lost everything good. Alternate translation: "How quickly they are destroyed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 73:20

like a dream after one wakes up

The wicked will last no longer than what a person sees in a dream. It disappears as soon as the person wakes up. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 73:21

my heart was grieved

The word "heart" represents the person emphasizing their thoughts and feelings. Alternate translation: "I was very sad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I was deeply wounded

The psalmist speaks of emotional pain as if it were physical pain by being pierced with a knife or arrow. Alternate translation: "I felt like someone had wounded me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 73:22

ignorant and lacked insight

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how little he knew. Alternate translation: "very ignorant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

lacked insight

"understood nothing"

you

This "you" refers to God.

Psalms 73:23

I am always with you

The word "I" here represents Asaph. The word "you" here represents God.

you hold my right hand

The person's "right hand" refers to the whole person. This shows an intimate relationship with God that offers stability and security. Alternate translation: "You hold me close" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 73:24

receive me to glory

Possible meanings are 1) "put me where people will honor me" or 2) "honor me by taking me to where you are." See how "receive me" is translated in Psalms 49:15.

Psalms 73:25

Whom have I in heaven but you?

You can translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: "There is no one for me in heaven but you!" or "You are the only one I have in heaven!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

in heaven

"among the gods" or "among the supernatural beings"

Psalms 73:26

My flesh and my heart

These two phrases share similar meanings. Together they represent the whole person. Alternate translation: "My body and my mind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 73:27

General Information:

Asaph continues to talk about God.

Those who are far from you

Here the idea of staying far from God is compared to being unwilling to obey him. Alternate translation: "Those who do not want to obey you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 73:28

my refuge

The writer speaks of Yahweh as if he were a place to which a person could flee for safety. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74

Psalms 74:intro-0

Psalm 074 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 74 is a psalm of deliverance. The people have been completely conquered and they pray for God to deliver them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# God's power

The enemies have destroyed God's temple and are insulting the people. God is powerful. He made everything and he chose Israel for his people. He should avenge himself on these enemies that have burnt his temple. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/peopleofgod.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/avenge.md]])

# Superscription

This is called a "Maschil." The word in the original language has caused scholars to have various opinions about its meaning. Some say it means to instruct, while others say that the word is referring to the skill used in creating the psalm. Still others think it means that meditation should be used in reading this psalm.

Psalms 74:1

General Information:

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

God, why have you rejected us forever?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "God, we have done nothing wrong, but you have rejected us forever!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Why does your anger burn against the sheep of your pasture?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "We are the ones you have promised to care for, and we have done nothing wrong, but now you are angry with us!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the sheep of your pasture

Asaph speaks of the people of Israel as if they were sheep. Alternate translation: "against Israel, who are like the sheep whom you feed in your pasture" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74:2

Call to mind

"Pay attention to." God has not forgotten his people, but he does not seem to be thinking about them.

your own heritage

"yours forever"

Psalms 74:3

General Information:

These verses describe an actual event, a physical attack on the temple of Israel in Jerusalem.

Come look

Asaph is addressing God, asking him to come look at the destruction.

Psalms 74:4

roared

The adversaries were shouting loudly with a great cry of victory.

Psalms 74:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 74:6

engravings

This refers to carvings on wood, metal, or stone in the temple.

Psalms 74:7

General Information:

Asaph continues to describe the destruction of the temple.

They ... they

Here "they" refers to the adversaries mentioned in Psalms 74:4.

Psalms 74:8

They ... They

Here "they" refers to the adversaries mentioned in Psalms 74:4.

They said in their hearts

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "They said to themselves" or "They thought to themselves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 74:9

General Information:

Asaph is addressing God about the destruction he sees.

We do not see any more signs

Possible meanings are 1) "We do not see any more miraculous signs from God" or 2) "All our sacred symbols are gone" or 3) the "signs" are the flags and symbols of an army representing the army itself. Alternate translation: "They have completely destroyed our army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 74:10

How long, God, will the enemy throw insults at you?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "God, the enemy has been throwing insults at you for too long!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Will the enemy blaspheme your name forever?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "It seems as if you will never stop the enemy from blaspheming your name!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

blaspheme your name

The word "name" is a metonym for God himself. Alternate translation: "say that you are bad" or "insult you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 74:11

Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand?

The psalmist speaks of God as if he had a physical body. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Stop holding back your hand, your right hand!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

hold back your hand

Here the word "hand" is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "not show your power" or "not use your power to destroy your enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

your right hand

"your strongest hand"

Take your right hand from your garment

The psalmist speaks of God as if he had a physical body. "Stop hiding your power and take action" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 74:12

General Information:

This begins a new theme: Asaph is proclaiming God's mighty deeds in the history of his people.

God has been my king from ancient times

Possible meanings are 1) Asaph is speaking as Israel's representative, "God has been our king since we Israelites first became a nation" or 2) "God, my king, was alive even in ancient times."

bringing salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be translated with the verb "to save." Here Yahweh saving people is spoken of as if salvation were an object that he brings with him. Alternate translation: "saving people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74:13

You divided ... in the waters

Asaph is probably speaking of the time God brought Israel out of Egypt, divided the Sea of Reeds, led Israel through it on dry land, then drowned Pharaoh's army. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

You divided the sea by your strength

Asaph is speaking of God as if God had a physical body. "You are so strong you were able to make dry land in the middle of the sea." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the sea

"the great water"

you smashed the heads of the sea monsters in the waters

Asaph is probably speaking of Pharaoh and his army as if they were sea monsters. If possible, translate these words literally. Alternate translation: "when you killed Pharaoh's army, it was as if you smashed the heads of sea monsters in the waters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74:14

General Information:

Asaph continues to speak of what God did long ago. He is probably speaking of when God brought Israel out of Egypt and drowned Pharaoh's army in the Sea of Reeds. If possible, these words should be translated literally.

leviathan

Leviathan is a sea monster. It represents a cruel enemy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74:15

You broke open springs and streams

Yahweh causing springs and streams to flow out of the ground as if he broke open the ground so that they could flow. Alternate translation: "You caused springs and streams to flow out of the ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74:16

General Information:

Asaph continues to recount God's creative power.

Psalms 74:17

the borders of the earth

"the boundaries of the land and the sea"

Psalms 74:18

General Information:

Asaph is pleading for God's help.

Call to mind

"Pay attention to." See how this is translated in Psalms 74:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the enemy hurled insults at you

Asaph speaks of insulting words as if they were physical objects, like stones, which the enemy was throwing at Yahweh. Alternate translation: "the enemy insulted you many times" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74:19

the life of your dove

Asaph speaks of himself as if he were a dove, a defenseless bird. This phrase may also be a metaphor for the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "me, your dove" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

dove

A small, defenseless bird often kept as a pet.

a wild animal

This phrase may be a metaphor for the enemies of Israel. Alternate translation: "a savage enemy that is like a wild animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Do not forget forever the life of your oppressed people

"Do not continue forever to do nothing to help your oppressed people." This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Come soon to help your oppressed people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 74:20

General Information:

Asaph continues his lament to Yahweh.

the dark regions of the land are full of places of violence

Asaph speaks of "regions" as if they were containers in which one could put "places of violence." Alternate translation: "violent people do evil deeds in dark places in the land wherever they can" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the dark regions of the land

The word "dark" is probably a metaphor for a place where bad things happen or for the lands to which the Israelites had been sent in exile, but these words should be translated literally if possible. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 74:21

Do not let the oppressed be turned back in shame

"Do not let wicked people defeat the oppressed and make them ashamed"

the oppressed

These are people who are treated cruelly by powerful people.

the poor and oppressed

The words "poor" and "oppressed" mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh saves many who need his help. See how these words are translated in Psalms 35:10. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 74:22

defend your own honor

"show everyone that you are right"

call to mind

"Pay attention to." God has not forgotten how fools insult him, but he does not seem to be thinking about it. See how this is translated in verse Psalms 2.

Psalms 74:23

the voice of your adversaries

The word "voice" is a metonym for the words people use when they speak. Alternate translation: "what your adversaries are saying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

or the uproar of those who continually defy you

The psalmist speaks of the words of those who defy God as if they were the loud sound of animals or non-living objects like water or the wind. Alternate translation: "and pay attention to the loud and meaningless words of those who continually defy you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

defy

boldly oppose

Psalms 75

Psalms 75:intro-0

Psalm 075 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 75 is a wisdom psalm; teaching what will happen to evil people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Punishment

God has warned the evil people that they will be punished. He will strengthen the good people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]])

Psalms 75:1

General Information:

The people of God are speaking in 75:1, and God speaks in 75:2-3. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to Al Tashheth

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 57:1.

A psalm of Asaph

"This is a psalm that Asaph wrote." See how this is translated in Psalms Psalm 53.

Psalms 75:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 75:3

all the inhabitants

"all the people who live on it"

make steady the earth's pillars

"keep the earth from being destroyed" or Alternate translation: "keep my people safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 75:4

I said to the arrogant ... and to the wicked

The words "the arrogant" and "the wicked" are nominal adjectives that can be translated with nouns. The verb for the second phrase may be supplied from the first. Alternate translation: "I said to the arrogant people ... and I said to the wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

I said

Possible meanings are 1) God is speaking or 2) Asaph is speaking.

Do not be arrogant ... Do not lift

The speaker is speaking to many wicked people, so these forms are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Do not lift up the horn

Asaph speaks of wicked people as if they were animals with horns on their heads, stretching their necks and holding their heads high to frighten other animals. Alternate translation: "Do not be confident" or "Do not boast about how strong you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 75:5

Do not lift up your ... do not speak

The speaker is speaking to many wicked people, so these forms are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Do not lift up your horn to the heights

Asaph speaks of wicked people as if they were animals with horns on their heads, stretching their necks and holding their heads as high as they can to frighten other animals. Alternate translation: "Be especially sure not to boast that you are greater than God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with an insolent neck

Asaph speaks of wicked people who defy or challenge God as if they were animals with horns on their heads, stretching their necks and holding their heads high to frighten other animals. Alternate translation: "arrogantly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 75:6

It is not from the east ... that lifting up comes

Asaph speaks of the one who lifts up as if he were the action of lifting up. He also speaks of God giving strength and honor to a person as if God were physically lifting that person up. Alternate translation: "The one who will lift you up will not be someone who comes from the east" or "The one who will make you strong and have people honor you will not be someone who comes from the east" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 75:7

General Information:

Asaph speaks about God.

he brings down and he lifts up

The objects of the verbs can be stated clearly: "he brings some people down and he lifts other people up." The words "brings down" and "raises up" are metaphors for God making people powerful and taking away their power. Alternate translation: "he makes one man king in place of another man" or "he takes away one man's power and gives power to another man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 75:8

a cup of foaming wine ... mixed with spices

When Yahweh punishes the people they will be like people who have drunk strong wine and become ill. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

foaming wine

The foam is a metaphor for the power of the wine to make people drunk, Alternate translation: "strong wine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

spices

dried leaves or ground seeds

pours it out

pours it from a large container into the cups that the people will drink from

drink it to the last drop

"drink every drop of it"

Psalms 75:9

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 75:10

He says

God says

cut off all the horns of

The horns of an animal are a metaphor for the power of a person. Alternate translation: "take away all power from" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the horns of the righteous will be raised up

The horns of an animal are a metaphor for the power of a person. This can be translated as a statement in active form. Alternate translation: "I will raise up the horns of the righteous" or "I will make the righteous powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 76

Psalms 76:intro-0

Psalm 076 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 76 is a worship psalm.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's greatness

God is great. He has conquered all the nations surrounding Israel. Everyone should bring him gifts.

Psalms 76:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

on stringed instruments

"people should play stringed instruments with this song."

A psalm of Asaph

"This is a psalm that Asaph wrote" See how this is translated in Psalms 53:1.

made himself known in Judah

"caused the people of Judah to know who he is" or "made himself famous in Judah"

his name is great in Israel

The words "his name" are a metonym for his reputation. Alternate translation: "the people of Israel consider him good and powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 76:2

his dwelling place

"the place where he has chosen to live"

Psalms 76:3

There he broke the arrows of the bow, the shield, the sword, and the other weapons of war

These words are probably a metaphor for God causing the people of Judah to live in peace without being afraid of enemies making war on them, but the words should be translated literally. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 76:4

General Information:

Asaph speaks of God as if God was a soldier returning from a mountain after winning a great battle.

You shine brightly and reveal your glory

The second phrase strengthens the first phrase in that Yahweh's glory relates to Yahweh shining brightly. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

You shine brightly

The words "shine brightly" are a metaphor for being great. Alternate translation: "You show how extremely great you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 76:5

The bravehearted were plundered

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Your people killed the brave soldiers of their enemies and then took all their possessions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

fell asleep

Here "fell asleep" is a euphemism for died. Alternate translation: "died" or "fell down dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 76:6

At your rebuke

The abstract noun "rebuke" refers to saying something in an angry or critical way. Alternate translation: "When you rebuked them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

fell asleep

This phrase is a polite way to say that they died. Alternate translation: "died" or "fell down dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 76:7

who can stand in your sight when you are angry?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "No one can stand in your sight when you are angry." or "You can destroy anyone at whom you are angry." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 76:8

you made your judgment heard

"you pronounced judgment" or "you announced how you were going to punish wicked people"

the earth was

Here "the earth" is a metonym for the people living on the earth. Alternate translation: "the people of the earth were" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 76:9

execute judgment

"carry out judgment" or "punish wicked people"

Psalms 76:10

Surely your angry judgment

"It is certain that your angry judgment"

your angry judgment against humanity will bring you praise

Possible meanings are 1) "people will praise you because you are angry at the wicked and judge them" or 2) "people who are angry with you will do things that cause people to praise you."

you gird yourself with what is left of your anger

Yahweh's anger is spoken of as something that he can tie around himself like a belt. Alternate translation: "you tie your remaining anger around you like a belt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 76:11

him who is to be feared

"Yahweh, whom they should fear"

Psalms 76:12

He cuts off the spirit of the princes

The phrase "He cuts off the spirit" is an idiom that means He breaks the spirit or He humbles. Alternate translation: "He humbles the princes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he is feared by the kings of the earth

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the kings of the earth fear him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 77

Psalms 77:intro-0

Psalm 077 General Notes

Type of psalm

The author felt abandoned by God. This is a psalm of lament. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lament.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Lament

God used to be close to the psalmist, but now it seems that God has completely abandoned him. Long ago, God took care of Israel and brought the people safely through the sea.

Psalms 77:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

Jeduthun

Psalms 77:2

I stretched my hands out

"I prayed with my arms extended"

My soul refused to be comforted

The "soul" represents the person. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I would not allow anyone to try to comfort me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 77:3

I thought of God as I groaned; I thought about him as I grew faint

These two phrases share similar meanings and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

as I grew faint

"as my spirit grew faint" or "as my spirit was overwhelmed"

Psalms 77:4

General Information:

After speaking about God, Asaph speaks to God in verse 4 and then returns to speaking about God.

You held my eyes open

"I said to God, 'You held my eyes open.'"

held my eyes open

Open eyes is a metonym for being unable to sleep. Alternate translation: "kept me from sleeping" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 77:5

the days of old, about times long past

If necessary, "days of old" and "times long past" can be combined. Alternate translation: "about things that happened a very long time ago" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 77:6

I called to mind

This is an idiom for remembering. Alternate translation: "I remembered" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

what had happened

Another possible meaning is "what was happening."

Psalms 77:7

Will the Lord reject me forever? Will he never again show me favor?

These two phrases express feeling rejection from the Lord. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

show me favor

"do things that show that he is pleased with me"

Psalms 77:8

General Information:

Because Asaph was not sure of the answer to these questions, they are probably literal questions and should be translated literally.

Was his covenant faithfulness gone forever?

Asaph speaks of Yahweh no longer acting faithfully to his covenant as if Yahweh's covenant faithfulness had gone away. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "Has he stopped being faithful to his covenant forever?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 77:9

Had God forgotten to be gracious? Had his anger shut off his compassion?

These are two expressions stating similar concept of God not showing compassion. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Had his anger shut off his compassion

Asaph speaks of anger as if it were a person shutting a door to keep another person, compassion, from coming out, Alternate translation: "Had God stopped showing us compassion because he was angry with us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 77:10

I said

Possible meanings are 1) the psalmist was speaking to himself or 2) the psalmist was speaking to Yahweh.

the changing of the right hand of the Most High toward us

The "right hand" is a metonym for power, authority or strength. Alternate translation: "the Most High no longer uses his power to help us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 77:11

General Information:

The writer begins to speak to Yahweh.

call to mind

"remember" See how this is translated in Psalms 74:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your wonderful deeds of old

"the wonderful things you did long ago"

Psalms 77:12

I will ponder all your deeds and will reflect on them.

These two phrases express the concept of meditating on what Yahweh has done. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

ponder

think deeply about

reflect on them

"think of what they mean"

Psalms 77:13

General Information:

The writer continues to speak to Yahweh.

what god compares to our great God?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "no god compares to our great God." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 77:14

revealed your strength among the peoples

The abstract noun "strength" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "shown people from many people groups how strong you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 77:15

gave your people victory ... the descendants

"gave us, your people, victory ... us who are the descendants"

gave your people victory

The abstract noun "victory" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "caused your people to be victorious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the descendants of Jacob and Joseph

This refers to the entire nation of Israel.

Psalms 77:16

The waters saw you ... they were afraid ... the depths trembled

Asaph speaks of the water as if it were a person who saw something that terrified him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the waters saw you, and they were afraid; the depths trembled

"water" and "depth" refers to large bodies of water such as the sea or ocean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

depths

deepest waters

Psalms 77:17

The clouds poured down water

Asaph speaks of the clouds as if they were people pouring water out of containers. Alternate translation: "Much rain fell" or "It rained very hard" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

your arrows flew about

This is a metaphor that describes lightning as God's arrows. Alternate translation: "the lightning you made flashed like arrows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

flew

Use your language's word for what an arrow does after someone shoots it.

Psalms 77:18

thunderous voice

This is personification, referring to the thunder as the voice of God. Alternate translation: "voice, which was as loud as thunder" or "very loud voice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

lightning lit up the world

This is an exaggeration to emphasize that the lightning lit up everything the writer could see. Alternate translation: "lightning lit up everything as far as you could see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 77:19

Your path ... your way

These two phrases have similar meanings and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

your footprints

Asaph is speaking of Yahweh as if Yahweh was a person with feet. While this is personification, it should be translated literally, if possible. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

your footprints were not seen

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one saw your footprints" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 77:20

You led your people like a flock

This simile compares God's people to a flock of animals. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

by the hand of

The phrase "by the hand of" here means "by the action of" or "through the action of."

hand

Here "hand" is synechdoche for the whole person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 78

Psalms 78:intro-0

Psalm 078 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 78 is a wisdom psalm using Israel's history. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Israel's complaining

Although God did one miracle after the other, the people of Israel still complained and failed to believe Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/believe.md]])

# Superscription

Psalms 78:1

General Information:

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

Hear my teaching

The noun "teaching" can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: "Hear what I teach" or "Hear me as I teach you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the words of my mouth

The word "mouth" represents the person. Alternate translation: "my words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 78:2

open my mouth in parables

The idiom "open my mouth" means to speak. Alternate translation: "speak in parables" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

sing about

"tell." See how "pours out" is translated in Psalms 19:2.

hidden things

If your language has a word for sayings that are purposely difficult to understand, you might use it here.

Psalms 78:3

General Information:

Verse 3 continues the sentence begun in verse 2.

Psalms 78:4

We will not keep them from their descendants

This can be written in positive form. Alternate translation: "We will certainly tell our descendants about them"

the praiseworthy deeds of Yahweh

"the things we praise Yahweh for"

Psalms 78:5

he established

"Yahweh established"

covenant decrees

Other possible meanings are "testimonies" or "laws."

Psalms 78:6

General Information:

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Psalms 78:7

General Information:

The writer speaks of the "children" of Psalms 78:5-6.

Psalms 78:8

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Psalms 78:9

The Ephraimites ... day of battle

This is possibly a metaphor for not keeping the covenant (verse 10), but it is best to translate literally.

The Ephraimites

"The Ephraimite soldiers"

were armed with bows

The soldiers probably also had arrows. Alternate translation: "had bows and arrows for weapons" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 78:10

General Information:

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Psalms 78:11

General Information:

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Psalms 78:12

land of Zoan

This refers to the area around the city of Zoan, which was in Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 78:13

General Information:

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Psalms 78:14

General Information:

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Psalms 78:15

He split

"God split"

enough to fill the depths of the sea

This is probably hyperbole. Alternate translation: "more water than they could possibly drink" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 78:16

streams

small rivers

Psalms 78:17

General Information:

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Psalms 78:18

They challenged God

They wanted God to prove that he could do what he said he would do before they would believe him.

in their hearts

"with their whole hearts"

to satisfy their appetites

"so they could eat as much as they desired"

Psalms 78:19

They spoke

the Israelites spoke

Can God really lay out a table for us in the wilderness?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "We do not believe that God can really lay out a table for us in the wilderness!" or "God, prove to us that you can really lay out a table for us in the wilderness!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

lay out a table

The idiom "lay out a table" means to prepare a table for a meal. Here the word "table" is a metonym for the food on the table. Alternate translation: "provide us with food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 78:20

waters gushed out

much water came out quickly

But can he give bread also? Will he provide meat for his people?

The people are laughing at God to insult him with these questions. Alternate translation: "But we will not believe that he can give us bread also or provide meat for his people until we see him do it." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

bread ... meat

food from plants or food from animals. Though this is a merism for all kinds of food, it is best to translate it literally if possible. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 78:21

his fire burned against Jacob

The writer speaks of Yahweh's anger as if it were a fire, and of Yahweh acting in anger against Jacob as if that fire burned Jacob. Alternate translation: "his anger was like a fire that burned Jacob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Jacob

This refers to the nation of Israel

his anger attacked Israel

The writer speaks of Yahweh punishing Israel when he was angry as if his anger were a person who attacked Israel. Alternate translation: "because he was angry, he attacked Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 78:22

did not trust in his salvation

"did not trust him to save them"

Psalms 78:23

he commanded the skies

Asaph speaks of the skies as if they were a person who could hear and obey God's commands. Alternate translation: "he spoke to the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

skies

Possible meanings are 1) "sky" or 2) "clouds."

opened the doors of the sky

Asaph speaks of the sky as if it were a storeroom with doors. Alternate translation: "opened the sky as if it were a storeroom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 78:24

He rained down manna for them to eat, and gave them the grain from heaven

These two lines speak of the same event.

He rained down manna

"He caused manna to fall from the sky like rain"

Psalms 78:25

the bread of angels

This refers to the manna that God provided for the people. The word "bread" represents food in general. Alternate translation: "the same kind of food that angels eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

food in abundance

The abstract noun "abundance" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "abundant food" or "a large amount of food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 78:26

He caused

"God caused"

Psalms 78:27

He rained down meat on them like dust

The writer speaks of Yahweh causing birds to fall from the sky as if the birds were rain that Yahweh caused to fall. He compares the large amount of birds to dust. Alternate translation: "He caused meat to fall from the sky like rain, and there was so much of it that it covered the ground like dust" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

meat

birds

as numerous as the sands of the sea

No one can count the grains of sand. There were more birds than anyone could count, but this is an exaggeration: there were probably not literally the same number of birds as grains of sand. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 78:28

General Information:

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Psalms 78:29

craved

strongly desired

Psalms 78:30

General Information:

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Psalms 78:31

Then

while the food was still in their mouths (Psalms 78:31)

God's anger attacked them

"God was angry and attacked them." See how "his anger attacked Israel" is translated in Psalms 78:21. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

brought down

This is a euphemism that means he caused them to die. Alternate translation: "killed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 78:32

did not believe his wonderful deeds

The word "deeds" is a metonym for God, who did the deeds. What they did not believe can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "did not believe that he would take care of them even though he had done such wonderful deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 78:33

General Information:

The writer continues telling of what God did to the Israelites.

cut short their days

Here the word "days" refers to a lifetime. The idiom "to cut short ... days" means to cause someone to die before they have lived a long life. Alternate translation: "killed them while they were still young" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

their years were filled with terror

Asaph speaks of years as if they were containers. Alternate translation: "year after year they were afraid all the time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 78:34

to seek him

to ask him what they needed to do so he would protect them (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

afflicted them, they would ... they would return and look

These are different people from those whose days God "cut short." When some of them died, others would "start to seek" God.

would return

"would repent" or "would be truly sorry for their sins"

look earnestly

"look urgently" or "look as best they could"

Psalms 78:35

General Information:

The tells of what the Israelites did.

call to mind

"remember." See how this is translated in Psalms 20:3.

God was their rock

The writer speaks about God as if he were a hill or mountain where people could go to be safe from their enemies. Alternate translation: "God was the one who protected them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their rescuer

"the one who rescued them"

Psalms 78:36

flatter him

"tell him he was wonderful when they did not believe it"

with their mouth

The word "mouth" is a metonym for the words they spoke using their mouths. Alternate translation: "by saying what they said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 78:37

their hearts were not firmly fixed on him

Here "hearts" is a metonym for their thoughts. To be loyal to him is spoken of as being solidly attached to him. Alternate translation: "their thoughts were not focused on him" or "they were not loyal to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 78:38

forgave their iniquity

"forgave them even though they had done evil deeds"

held back his anger

Asaph speaks of God's anger as if it were an angry person whom God held onto to keep him from attacking the one who had made him angry. Alternate translation: "did not punish them even though he was angry with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

did not stir up all his wrath

Asaph speaks of God's wrath as if it were a sleeping person whom God allowed to sleep and did not awaken. Alternate translation: "did not allow himself to become fully angry with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 78:39

called to mind

"remembered." See how "call to mind" is translated in Psalms 20:3. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

they were made of flesh

The word "flesh," which is weak and then dies, is a metonym for human weakness and death. Alternate translation: "the Israelites were weak and would someday die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 78:40

the barren regions

"places where nothing grows"

Psalms 78:41

they challenged God

They wanted God to prove that he could do what he said he would do before they would believe him. See how you translated this in Psalms 78:18.

Psalms 78:42

General Information:

The writer speaks of how God had rescued the Israelites.

Psalms 78:43

Zoan

a city in Egypt (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 78:44

General Information:

The writer describes what God did.

Psalms 78:45

swarms of flies

so many flies that it looked like a cloud

that devoured them

The flies made the Egyptians almost as unhappy as they would have if they had eaten the Egyptians. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

overran their land

"went everywhere in their land"

Psalms 78:46

gave their crops to the grasshopper and their labor to the locust

"allowed the grasshoppers to eat all their crops and allowed the locusts to eat everything they had worked hard to produce"

grasshopper

a plant-eating insect with long legs used for jumping

He gave their crops to the grasshopper

Asaph speaks of the crops as a gift that God gave to the grasshoppers. Alternate translation: "He allowed the grasshopper to eat their crops" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their labor to the locust

"he gave their labor to the locust." Asaph speaks of the people's labor as if it were a gift that God gave to the grasshoppers. The word "labor" is a metonym for the crops that their labor had produced. Alternate translation: "he allowed the locusts to eat the crops they had worked so hard to produce" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 78:47

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did to the Egyptians.

sycamore

a tree that gives fruit

Psalms 78:48

lightning bolts

lightning that makes loud thunder

He rained hail

"He brought hail" or "He caused hail to fall"

Psalms 78:49

The fierceness of his anger lashed out against them

Asaph speaks of God's fierceness as if it were a person who could attack another person. Alternate translation: "He was angry with them, so he suddenly and fiercely attacked them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

The fierceness of his anger

"His fierce anger"

lashed out against them

"attacked them when they were not expecting anything to happen"

He sent wrath, fury, and trouble like agents who bring disaster

Asaph speaks of wrath, fury, and trouble as though they are people God can send to do his work for him. Alternate translation: "He was so angry that he wanted to harm the Egyptians, so he made trouble for them and brought them to disaster" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

fury

anger that makes someone want to harm others

Psalms 78:50

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did to the Egyptians.

He leveled a path for his anger

The psalmist speaks of anger as if it were a person who could walk Yahweh getting ready to punish the people as if he were making a smooth road for a person to walk on. Alternate translation: "He was so angry that he did everything he could to harm them" or "It was as if his anger was an army and he made a smooth road for it to march on" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

he did not spare them from death

"he did not keep the Egyptians from dying" or "he did not permit the Egyptians to live"

gave them over to the plague

Asaph speaks of the plague as if it were a person who was going to harm the Egyptians. Alternate translation: "he made them all very ill with the plague" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 78:51

the firstborn of their strength

This phrase refers to the firstborn males of each family. Alternate translation: "the firstborn males" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in the tents of Ham

Here the word "tents" is a metonym for families. The word "Ham" refers to Egypt by the name of their ancestor. Alternate translation: "among the families of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 78:52

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did for the people of Israel.

like sheep ... like a flock

The writer speaks about the Israelites as if they were sheep. This means God cared for and protected the people like a shepherd does his sheep. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 78:53

overwhelmed

completely covered

Psalms 78:54

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did for the people of Israel.

his right hand acquired

The words "right hand" are a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "he won for himself using his own power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 78:55

assigned them their inheritance

Possible meanings are 1) God assigned the Israelites their inheritance in the land in which the other nations had once lived or 2) God assigned to the nations he had driven out an inheritance somewhere else. "gave them land that would always be theirs"

in their tents

Possible meanings are 1) he settled Israel in their own tents in the land or 2) he settled Israel in the tents from which he had driven the other nations. Most of these "tents" were actually houses, both when the other nations lived in them and when the Israelites lived in them. Alternate translation: "in their homes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 78:56

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did for the people of Israel.

challenged and defied

These words mean almost the same thing. The writer uses them both to emphasize that the Israelites did not believe that God would either provide for them or punish evil as he had said he would. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

challenged

They wanted God to prove that he could do what he said he would do before they would believe him. See how you translated this idea in Psalms 78:18.

defied

refused to obey

Psalms 78:57

were unfaithful and acted treacherously

These words mean almost the same thing. The writer uses them both to emphasize that the Israelites did not do for God what they had said they would do. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 78:58

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did for the people of Israel.

made him angry with their high places and provoked him to jealous anger with their idols

These two phrases are in parallel and have similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 78:59

General Information:

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Psalms 78:60

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did for the people of Israel.

Psalms 78:61

He allowed his strength to be captured and gave his glory into the enemy's hand

Asaph speaks of God's strength and glory as if they were physical objects that people could capture and hold. The words "strength" and "glory" are probably mentonyms for the ark of the covenant. The word "hand" is a metonym for the enemy's power. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "He allowed his enemies to capture the glorious ark of his covenant; he simply gave it to them so they could do whatever they wanted with it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 78:62

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did for the people of Israel.

He handed his people over to the sword

Asaph speaks of God's people as if they were a small object God would give as a gift, and of the sword, a metonym for death in war, as if it were a person who could receive a gift. Alternate translation: "He allowed people to kill all his people in war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he was angry with his heritage

"he was angry with the people he had said would be his forever"

Psalms 78:63

Fire devoured their young men

Possible meanings are 1) "The enemy used fire to kill all their young men" or 2) "Their young men died quickly in battle like a fire burns dry grass." Do not communicate that these people used guns. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

devoured

To "devour" is to eat everything very quickly.

wedding

the celebration when people marry

Psalms 78:64

Their priests fell by the sword

Here the word "sword" represents soldiers who fought with swords. The phrase "fell by the sword" is an idiom that means to die in battle. Alternate translation: "Their priests died in battle" or "Enemies killed their priests with swords" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

their widows could not weep

Possible meanings are 1) someone forced the widows not to weep or 2) so many priests died that there was no time for proper funerals.

widows

women whose husbands have died

Psalms 78:65

the Lord awakened as one from sleep

The Lord not acting for a period of time is spoken of as if he were asleep, and his beginning to act is spoken of as if he awakened. Alternate translation: "the Lord began to act as if he had awakened from sleep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

like a warrior who shouts because of wine

Possible meanings are 1) like a warrior who had drunk too much wine and has become angry because he was awakened and so wants to fight or 2) like a warrior who drank much wine but is now able to think and fight well because he has slept.

Psalms 78:66

General Information:

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Psalms 78:67

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did for the people of Israel.

the tent of Joseph

Here the word "tent" is a metonym for a family. In this phrase it refers to the descendants of Joseph. Alternate translation: "the descendants of Joseph" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Joseph ... Ephraim

Ephraim was Joseph's son.

Psalms 78:68

Judah ... Mount Zion

Mount Zion was in the land where the tribe of Judah lived.

Psalms 78:69

He built his sanctuary like the heavens

Possible meanings for this simile are 1) Yahweh has made his sanctuary as high as the heavens. Alternate translation: "He built his sanctuary high, like the heavens" or 2) Yahweh has made his sanctuary as permanent as the heavens. Alternate translation: "He built his sanctuary to last permanently, like the heavens last forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like the earth

The verb may be supplied from the previous line. The writer compares the permanence of Yahweh's sanctuary to the permanence of the earth. Alternate translation: "He built his sanctuary to last permanently, like the earth lasts permanently" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 78:70

General Information:

The writer continues to describe what God did

from the sheepfolds

"from where he was working in the sheepfolds" [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]]

sheepfolds

spaces with walls around them where sheep are kept safe

Psalms 78:71

to be shepherd of Jacob, his people, and of Israel, his heritage

The word "shepherd" is a metaphor for one who leads and protects other people. Alternate translation: "to lead and protect the descendants of Jacob, his people, and of Israel, his heritage" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his heritage

"the ones he had chosen to be his forever" See how this is translated in Psalms 78:62.

Psalms 78:72

David shepherded them

The word "shepherded" is a metaphor for leading and protecting. Alternate translation: "David led them and protected them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 79

Psalms 79:intro-0

Psalm 079 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 79 is a deliverance psalm and a prayer for revenge against their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/avenge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Destruction

Jerusalem has been destroyed and its people killed. God should destroy these enemy nations who do not pray to him.

Psalms 79:1

General Information:

your inheritance

"the land that was to be yours forever" See how this is translated in Psalms 68:9.

Psalms 79:2

General Information:

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Psalms 79:3

They have shed their blood like water

The word "blood" is a metonym for innocent life. To shed blood is to kill innocent people. Most people saw water every day, so for blood to be as common as water, many innocent people would have to die. Alternate translation: "They have killed so many innocent people that the blood is everywhere, like water after it rains" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 79:4

We have become a reproach for our neighbors, mocking and derision to those who are around us

The words "reproach," "mocking," and "derision" are metonyms for those whom others reproach, mock, and deride. Alternate translation: "We have become people whom our neighbors reproach; those around us mock and deride us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

We have become

The pronoun "We" refers to God's people.

derision

strong laughter to shame a person

Psalms 79:5

How long will your jealous anger burn like fire?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "It seems as though your jealous anger will never stop burning like fire." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

will your jealous anger burn

The abstract noun "anger" can be stated as "angry." Alternate translation: "will you be jealous and angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

burn like fire

This simile compares the expression of God's anger to a fire that destroys things. Alternate translation: "destroy us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 79:6

General Information:

These two pairs of phrases each share similar meanings and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Pour out your wrath on the nations

Asaph speaks of God's wrath as if it were a liquid. Alternate translation: "Since you are angry, punish the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not call upon your name

The word "name" is a metonym for the person's power and authority. Alternate translation: "do not belong to you" or "do not ask you to help them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 79:7

they have devoured Jacob

The word "Jacob" is a mentonym for his descendants, the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "they have completely destroyed the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 79:8

Do not hold the sins of our forefathers against us

"Do not continue to remember the sins of our forefathers and punish us for them" or "Forgive us for the sins of our forefathers"

we are very low

The writer speaks of the people being weak and discouraged as if they were in a low position. Alternate translation: "we are very weak" or "we are very discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 79:9

God of our salvation

The word "salvation" can be translated with the verb "save": "God who saves us." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

for the sake of the glory of your name

The word "name" is a metonym for his reputation, for what people know about him. Alternate translation: "so that people will know about your glory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for your name's sake

God's name here represents his whole being and the honor that he deserves. Alternate translation: "so that people will honor you" or "for your own sake" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 79:10

Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?"

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "The nations should not be able to say, 'Where is their God?'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Where is their God?

This taunt can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Their God cannot do anything!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

May the blood of your servants that was shed be avenged on the nations before our eyes

To shed blood is a metonym for killing innocent people. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Avenge your innocent servants whom the nations killed where we can see you do it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

before our eyes

"in our sight" or "while we are present"

Psalms 79:11

May the groans of the prisoners come before you

Asaph speaks of the sound made by prisoners in pain and sorrow as if it were a person who appears before a king. Alternate translation: "Listen carefully to the groans of the prisoners and help them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

children of death

This is an idiom that refers to people who are condemned to death. Alternate translation: "those who are condemned to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 79:12

Pay back ... the insults ... Lord

Asaph speaks of the evil deeds that the neighboring countries did against Israel as "insults," and as if they were physical items. He asks the Lord to count those deeds, and for every one that the neighboring countries committed, he asks the Lord to have someone do seven evil deeds to the neighboring countries. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Pay back

"Return" or "Give back"

into the laps

onto their knees and thighs as they are sitting. This is a metaphor for "directly and personally." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 79:13

we your people and sheep of your pasture will give you thanks

The word "sheep" is a metaphor for helpless people whom a shepherd protects and leads. Alternate translation: "we who are your people, whom you protect and lead, will thank you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

tell your praises to all generations

"make sure that all generations to come know all the good things you have done"

your praises

This represents the things that people will praise them the Lord for. Alternate translation: "continue to praise you for the things that you have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 80

Psalms 80:intro-0

Psalm 080 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 80 is a deliverance psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

Israel's enemies threaten them. The psalmist asks Yahweh to look down with joy on them, then they will be saved. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphor

The author uses an extended metaphor of Israel as a vine planted by God which is being uprooted. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 80:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship" See how this is translated in Psalms 4:1.

set to the Shoshannim

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 45:1.

Shepherd of Israel

Asaph is referring to God as the one who leads and protects Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you who lead Joseph like a flock

The word "Joseph" refers to the nation of Israel. Asaph speaks of the people as if they were a flock of sheep that Yahweh, who is the shepherd, leads. Alternate translation: "you who lead the descendants of Joseph as though they were a flock of sheep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Joseph

Here Joseph represents the nation of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you who sit above the cherubim

You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were Yahweh's footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. Alternate translation: "you who sit on your throne above the cherubim on the ark of the covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

shine on us

Asaph speaks of God as if he were the sun, giving light, a metaphor for moral goodness. Alternate translation: "give us light" or "show us the right way to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 80:2

stir up your power

The phrase "stir up" means to "put into action." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 80:3

make your face shine on us

and we will be saved

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "and please save us" or "so that you can save us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 80:4

your people

Israel

Psalms 80:5

You have fed them with the bread of tears and given them tears to drink in great quantities

The words "bread of tears" and "tears to drink" are metaphors for continual sadness. Alternate translation: "You have made sure that they are very sad all the time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 80:6

General Information:

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Psalms 80:7

General Information:

Asaph is speaking on behalf of the people of Israel. He begins in verse 8 to speak of the way God settled Israel in their land as if God were a man who cleared ground and planted a grapevine. The image of the grapevine continues through verse 16.

make your face shine on us

The writer speaks of Yahweh acting favorably towards them as if Yahweh's face shone a light on them. See how you translated this in Psalms 80:3. Alternate translation: "act favorably towards us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

we will be saved

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you will save us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 80:8

You brought a vine out of Egypt

Asaph compares the nation of Israel to a vine made ready to transplant. Alternate translation: "You brought us, like a vine, out of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

you drove out nations and transplanted it

The psalmist speaks of his people as if they were a plant that Yahweh was transplanting. Alternate translation: "you drove out nations from their land and gave it to us, the vine, and planted us there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you drove out nations

It can be made clear where the nations were that God forced out. Alternate translation: "you forced nations out of this land" or "you forced nations to leave the land of Canaan" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 80:9

General Information:

Asaph continues speaking of Israel in their land as if Israel were a grapevine in a vineyard. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You cleared the land for it

"You cleared the land for the vine"

it took root

"the vine took root" or "the vine began to grow"

filled the land

"its branches covered the land"

Psalms 80:10

The mountains were covered with its shade, the cedars of God by its branches

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Its shade covered the mountains, its branches the cedars of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the cedars of God by its branches

"and the cedars of God were covered by its branches," which copies the verb from the previous sentence. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "and its branches covered the cedars of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

cedars of God

Possible meanings are 1) "the highest cedar trees," the cedar trees that grew on the "mountains" in the land of Lebanon north of Israel, or 2) "God's own cedar trees."

Psalms 80:11

the sea

the Mediterranean Sea to the west of Israel

shoots

the parts of new plants that are just starting to grow above the ground

Psalms 80:12

General Information:

Asaph continues speaking of Israel in their land as if Israel were a grapevine in a vineyard.

its walls

walls of stone, not of wood

Psalms 80:13

boars

wild pigs that ruin gardens and farms and attack people. If your readers do not know what these are, use the word for a wild animal that ruins gardens and farms and attacks people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

forest

land where there are many trees

beasts

wild animals of any kind

field

land where there are many plants but no trees

Psalms 80:14

General Information:

Asaph finishes speaking of Israel in their land as if Israel were a grapevine in a vineyard.

Turn back

The writer wants God to turn back in order to help them. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "Turn back to us" or "Come and help us again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

take notice

"look at"

this vine

The writer continues comparing the nation of Israel to the vine. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 80:15

This is the root that your right hand planted

The right hand represents the Yahweh's power and control. Alternate translation: "This is the root that you, Yahweh, planted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

shoot

the part of a new plant that is just starting to grow above the ground. See how you translated this in Psalms 80:11.

Psalms 80:16

down; they perish because of your rebuke

Possible meanings are 1) "down; your people perish because of your rebuke." or 2) "down. May your enemies perish because of your rebuke!"

Psalms 80:17

your hand

This refers to Yahweh's power and control. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the man of your right hand

the nation of Israel, which Yahweh has chosen as his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

right hand

When a man in Israel wanted to honor another man, he would have that other man stand at his right side, close to his right hand. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 80:18

we will not turn away from you

Here "turn away" is a metaphor for rejecting someone. This can also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "we will not stop worshiping and obeying you" or "we will always worship and obey you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 80:19

shine on us

we will be saved

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you will save us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 81

Psalms 81:intro-0

Psalm 081 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 81 is a wisdom psalm. It is meant to be sung at "new moon" and "full moon" ceremonies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Obedience

If Israel would obey and worship God, he would destroy their enemies.

Psalms 81:1

General Information:

A psalm of Asaph

A psalm that Asaph wrote.

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship;"

set to the Gittith

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 8:1.

God our strength

The abstract noun "strength" can be stated as "strong." Alternate translation: "God who causes us to be strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the God of Jacob

Here "Jacob" represents all of his descendants. Alternate translation: "the God of Israel, the nation of Jacob's descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 81:2

play the tambourine, the pleasant harp with the lute

These are musical instruments.

tambourine

a musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be hit and with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Psalms 81:3

the new moon

This is the beginning of the lunar month.

the day of the full moon

This is the middle of the lunar month.

when our feast day begins

"and on the days when our feasts begin"

Psalms 81:4

For it

Here "it" refers to the feast day.

a decree given by the God of Jacob

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the God of Jacob decreed it" or "the God of Jacob commanded it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the God of Jacob

Psalms 81:5

issued it as a regulation

"gave it as a law"

in Joseph

Here "Joseph" represents all of the Israelites. Alternate translation: "to the Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

when he went against the land of Egypt

This refers to the historical events in Egypt when the people of Israel were enslaved and God rescued them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the land of Egypt

Here "land" represents the people. Alternate translation: "the people of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 81:6

General Information:

Here God begins speaking.

removed the burden from his shoulder

Here "the burden from his shoulder" represents the forced labor the Israelites had to do as slaves in Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

his hands were freed from holding the basket

Here "holding the basket" represents the forced labor the Israelites had to do as slaves in Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 81:7

In your distress

"In your great suffering"

I answered you from a dark thundercloud

When God came to the Israelites, he hid the fullness of his presence and glory in a dark and threatening cloud. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I tested you at the waters of Meribah

God tested the children of Israel to see if they would trust him to supply water in the desert of Meribah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 81:8

General Information:

Yahweh reminds the people what he said while they were in the desert.

for I will warn you

"because I am giving you a warning"

Israel

Here "Israel" represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Israelites" or "people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

if you would only listen to me!

"how I wish you would listen to me" or "but you must start listening to me!"

Psalms 81:9

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 81:10

Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it

God taking care of all the needs of the people is spoken of as if he were a mother bird feeding her baby birds. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 81:11

General Information:

Now Yahweh tells what actually happened after he warned the people.

to my words

"to what I said" or "to me"

Psalms 81:12

So I gave them over to their own stubborn way

God allowing the people to remain stubborn is spoken of as if God were giving them over to an enemy to let the enemy harm them. Alternate translation: "Therefore, I let them be stubborn" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 81:13

oh, that my people would walk in my paths

God wanting the people to obey him is spoken of as if he wanted the people to walk on his paths or roads. Alternate translation: "I wish that they would obey my laws" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 81:14

turn my hand against

Here "hand" represents Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "I would destroy" or "I would defeat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 81:15

who hate Yahweh ... before him

Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: "who hate me ... before me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

cringe in fear

"bow down in fear" or "fall down in fear"

May they be humiliated forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I would humiliate them forever" or "I will punish them forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 81:16

I would feed Israel with the finest wheat

God causing the best wheat to grow in Israel is spoken of as if he would literally feed the wheat to the people. Alternate translation: "I would allow the Israelites to eat the finest wheat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

feed Israel ... satisfy you

Both "Israel" and "you" refer to the Israelites.

honey out of the rock

This refers to wild honey. Bees would build hives in the holes in rocks and make the honey there. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 82

Psalms 82:intro-0

Psalm 082 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 82 is a psalm of judgment against the leaders of the other nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Favoritism

The leaders of the nations need to protect the poor and needy and not to favor the evil rich people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/favor.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metonymy

The leaders of the nations are represented by their gods. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]])

Psalms 82:1

General Information:

the divine assembly

"the heavenly council" or "the meeting in heaven"

he renders judgment

"he gives judgment." The abstract noun "judgment" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "he judges" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the gods

Possible meanings are 1) these are other spiritual beings who dwell in heaven. Alternate translation: "the divine beings" or "the heavenly judges" or 2) these are human judges that God has appointed. Either way, it does not mean they are gods like Yahweh is god. It means God has given them great power and authority. Alternate translation: "the rulers"

Psalms 82:2

How long will you judge unjustly and show favoritism to the wicked?

Yahweh uses a question to rebuke the gods for not judging people fairly. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 82:3

poor ... fatherless ... afflicted ... destitute

These words are nominal adjectives. They can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "those who are poor ... those who are fatherless ... those who are afflicted ... those who are destitute" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

maintain the rights of the

"do what is right for the"

Psalms 82:4

poor ... needy ... wicked

These are all nominal adjectives. They can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "those who are poor ... those who are needy ... those who are wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

take them out of the hand of the wicked

Here the word "hand" represents power or control. Alternate translation: "stop the wicked people from harming them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 82:5

They neither

Possible meanings are 1) "they" refers to the gods or 2) "they" refers to the wicked people.

they wander around in the darkness

Doing what is evil is spoken of as if they were walking in a very dark place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all the foundations of the earth crumble

The gods corrupting the moral order that Yahweh established is spoken of as if the gods were shaking the earth and making it fall apart. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

crumble

fall apart

Psalms 82:6

You are gods, and all of you sons of the Most High

Here "gods" refers to the same group as in Psalms 82:1. Whether this refers to spiritual beings or human beings, they are not gods like Yahweh is God, and they are not literally his sons. By calling them "gods" and "sons of the Most High," Yahweh is acknowledging that he has given them great power and authority.

sons of the Most High

Yahweh is speaking about himself as "the Most High." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 82:7

Nevertheless you

"However you"

and fall

This is a way of speaking of a person dying. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 82:8

General Information:

The writer is speaking again.

judge the earth

Here "earth" represents the people. Alternate translation: "judge the people of the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for you have an inheritance in all the nations

"for all the nations are your inheritance." Yahweh taking all the people as his own and ruling over them is spoken of as if the nations were a possession that he inherited. Alternate translation: "for you rule over all the people of every nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all the nations

Here "nations" represents the people of the nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 83

Psalms 83:intro-0

Psalm 083 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 83 is a deliverance psalm. It is a prayer for deliverance from the many nations allied against Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Destruction

God should destroy these enemy nations like he destroyed Israel's enemies during the time of the Judges.

Psalms 83:1

General Information:

remain unmoved

"do nothing to help us"

Psalms 83:2

Look, your enemies are making a commotion

Here "making a commotion" means they are rioting and rebelling. Alternate translation: "Look, your enemies are rebelling against you"

those who hate you have raised their heads

The phrase "raised their heads" is way of saying they are rebelling against God. Alternate translation: "those who hate you are defying you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 83:3

your protected ones

"those whom you protect." This refers to the Israelites.

Psalms 83:4

the name of Israel will no longer be remembered

Here "name" represents a reputation or the memory of someone. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one will ever remember the Israelites existed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 83:5

They schemed together with one strategy

"Your enemies have agreed together with one plan"

they made an alliance against you

"they have joined together against you"

Psalms 83:6

General Information:

The writer continues to list the people groups who want to destroy Israel.

the tents of Edom

This refers to the people of Edom who lived in tents. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Hagrites

This is the name of a people group that lived on the east side of the Jordan River. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 83:7

Gebal, Ammon, Amalek ... Philistia

These all represent the people of each area or tribe. Alternate translation: "the people of Gebal, the Ammonites, the Amalekites ... the Philistines" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Gebal

This is the name of a region south of the Dead Sea. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 83:8

Assyria

This represents the people of Assyria. Alternate translation: "the people of Assyria" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they have become an arm for the descendants of Lot

Here "arm" is a metonym that represents "help." Alternate translation: "they have become a help for the descendants of Lot" or "they are helping the descendants of Lot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the descendants of Lot

This refers to the people of the nations of Moab and Ammon. You can make clear the understood information. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 83:9

Do to them as you did to Midian ... Sisera and to Jabin

The writer is asking God to defeat Israel's enemies as he has done in the past. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

did to Midian

Here "Midian" represents the people of Midian. Alternate translation: "did to the Midianites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Sisera ... Jabin

These are names of men. Jabin was king of Hazor. Sisera was the commander of Jabin's army. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Kishon River

This is the name of a river in northern Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 83:10

Endor

This is the name of a town in northern Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

became like manure for the earth

This means the bodies of Sisera and Jabin were not buried but were left to rot. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 83:11

General Information:

The writer continues to remind God of other enemies he has defeated for Israel in the past. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Oreb ... Zeeb ... Zebah ... Zalmunna

These are all names of kings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 83:12

They said

Here "They" refers to Oreb, Zeeb, Zebah and Zalmunna.

the pastures of God

This speaks about the land of Israel as if it were land for sheep to graze and God were the shepherd watching over it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 83:13

General Information:

The writer uses similes to describe God's total destruction of Israel's enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

make them like the whirling dust, like chaff before the wind

Both statements speak of God destroying his enemies as if he were a strong wind easily blowing them away. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 83:14

like the fire that burns the forest, and like the flame that sets the mountains on fire

Both statements speak of God's punishment as if it were a fire, and the enemies of God are things that burn in the fire. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 83:15

Chase them with your strong wind, and terrify them with your windstorm

Both statements ask God to destroy the enemies with storms. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 83:16

Fill their faces with shame

Here "faces" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "Make them very ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

they might seek your name

Here "name" represents God's power. God's enemies acknowledging that God is powerful is spoken of as if they are seeking to find Yahweh. Alternate translation: "they might acknowledge that you are powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

seek your name

Possible meanings are 1) God's enemies admit that God is powerful or 2) God's enemies are asking God for help or 3) God's enemies start to worship and obey him.

Psalms 83:17

May they be put to shame and be terrified forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Make them ashamed and terrified forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

may they perish in disgrace

"may they die while they are ashamed"

Psalms 83:18

Then they will know

This can also be stated as the writer making a request to God. Alternate translation: "Cause them to know"

are the Most High over all the earth

God ruling over everything in the earth is spoken of as if he were elevated higher than everything else. Alternate translation: "are supreme, and you rule all things on the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 84

Psalms 84:intro-0

Psalm 084 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 84 is a worship psalm.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Obedience

God blesses all who want to obey him. Praising God in his temple is better than anything else. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]])

# Similarity to Psalm 42-43

There are many similarities between these psalms and some scholars suggest they were written by the same people.

Psalms 84:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to the Gittith

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 8:1.

How lovely

"How beautiful"

Psalms 84:2

I long for the courts of Yahweh

"I really want to be in the courts of Yahweh"

the courts of Yahweh

Here "courts" represent the temple. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

my desire for it has made me exhausted

"my desire has exhausted me" or "I am tired because I want it so much"

My heart and all of my being call out

Here "heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I call out with all of my being" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the living God

This means God is living and he also has the power to cause other things to live.

Psalms 84:3

sparrow ... swallow

These are types of birds. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

found herself a house

"found herself a home" or "made herself a home"

the swallow a nest

Here the words "has found" or "has made" are understood. Alternate translation: "the swallow has found a nest" or "the swallow has made a nest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

where she may lay her young

"where she may lay her eggs and care for her babies"

Psalms 84:4

they who live in your house

Possible meanings are 1) "they" refers to the priests who permanently serve at the temple or 2) "they" refers to people in general who come and worship at the temple.

praise you continually

"keep praising you again and again"

Psalms 84:5

Blessed is the man

Here "man" refers to people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

whose strength is in you

God is spoken of as if strength was actually found in him. Alternate translation: "whom you strengthen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in whose heart are the highways up to Zion

This expression is about heart-felt desire. Alternate translation: "Who love to go up to Zion" or "Who earnestly wish go up to Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

highways

roads built higher than the surrounding ground

up to Zion

The temple was in Jerusalem on the top of the highest hill, called Mount Zion.

Psalms 84:6

the Valley of Tears

This refers to a dry, arid place. Some Bible versions have "the Valley of Baca." The word "Baca" means "weeping."

The early rains

This means the rain that falls in autumn before the cold season. This is during the months of October and November on Western calendars.

blessings

Here the word "blessings" is a metonym for the pools of water that make people who live in dry lands happy. Alternate translation: "pools of water that make them happy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 84:7

They go from strength to strength

This is a way of saying they get stronger. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

They go

Here "They" refers to those who strongly desire to go to the temple to worship God.

Psalms 84:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 84:9

God, watch over our shield

The king who protects his people is spoken of as if he were a shield. Alternate translation: "God, watch over our king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 84:10

For one day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere

This can be stated with the understood information. Alternate translation: "I would rather be in your courts for one day than to be somewhere else for a thousand days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

a thousand

"1,000" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

be a doorkeeper

"be a guard at the door" or "stand at the door"

the wicked

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "wicked people" or "those who are wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 84:11

For Yahweh God is our sun and shield

Yahweh who guides and protects his people is spoken of as if he were the sun and a shield. Alternate translation: "For Yahweh God guides us like the light from the sun, and he protects us like a shield" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Yahweh will give grace and glory

The abstract nouns "grace" and "glory" can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will be kind to us and honor us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

who walk in integrity

The way a person conducts their lives or behaves is spoken of as if the person were walking. Alternate translation: "who live honestly" or "who are honest"

Psalms 84:12

blessed is the man

Here "man" means people in general. Alternate translation: "blessed are those" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

Psalms 85

Psalms 85:intro-0

Psalm 085 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 85 is a worship psalm.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Blessings

God has given so many blessings. If the people stop their sinning, then the land will be filled by the glory of God and his blessings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/glory.md]])

# Group Prayer

Note how this psalm uses the plural to show that it is a group praying.

Psalms 85:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

you have showed favor to your land

Here "land" represents the nation and people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

well-being

This refers to a person being happy, healthy and prosperous.

of Jacob

Here "Jacob" represents Jacob's descendents, the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 85:2

you have covered all their sin

Here sin that is forgiven is spoken of as if it were covered so that it can not be seen. Alternate translation: "you have deliberately forgotten their sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their sin

This writer thought of himself as belonging to God's people. Alternate translation: "our sin"

Psalms 85:3

You have withdrawn all your wrath

God no longer punishing the Israelites is spoken of as if wrath were an object that Yahweh could take away from the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you have turned back from your hot anger

God no longer being angry with the Israelites is spoken of as if anger were a fire that God from which God turned away. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 85:4

God of our salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "God who saves us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

let go of your displeasure with us

Asking God to stop being angry with the Israelites is spoken of as if displeasure were an object the writer wants God to let go of. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 85:5

Will you be angry with us forever? Will you remain angry throughout future generations?

The writer uses these questions to emphasize that he is requesting God to stop being angry with them. These rhetorical questions can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Please do not stay angry at us forever." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 85:6

Will you not revive us again?

The writer uses a question to emphasize his request to God to make the people of Israel prosper and happy again. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Please make us prosper again." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 85:7

Show us your covenant faithfulness

If the sentence is rearranged, the ideas in the abstract noun "covenant faithfulness" can be expressed with the phrase "faithful to your covenant." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

grant us your salvation

This is how the writer wants God to show his faithfulness to his people. If the sentence is rearranged, the ideas in the abstract noun "salvation" can be expressed with the verb "save." Alternate translation: "and save us" or "by saving us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 85:8

make peace with his people

"have a peaceful relationship with his people" or "bring peace to his people"

Yet they must not turn again to foolish ways

A person changing the way he behaves is spoken of as if he were physically turning to a different direction. Alternate translation: "Yet they must not start doing foolish things again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 85:9

Surely his salvation is near to those

God being ready to save someone is spoken of as if salvation were an object that God has placed near someone. Alternate translation: "Surely God is ready to save those" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

then glory will remain in our land

Here "glory" represents God's presence. Alternate translation: "then his glorious presence will remain in our land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 85:10

Steadfast love and faithfulness have met together

The abstract nouns "love" and "faithfulness" are spoken of as if they were persons who meet together. Possible meanings are 1) God constantly loves his people because of his covenant and has done what he promised to do. Alternate translation: "God has loved his people without ceasing and has proven that he is worthy of people trusting him" or 2) God has been faithful because of his covenant and the people have responded by being faithful to him. Alternate translation: "God has loved his people and his people have responded by trusting him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

have met together ... have kissed each other

Most likely the speaker is describing a time in the future when God causes the people to prosper again. Alternate translation: "will meet together ... will kiss each other"

righteousness and peace have kissed each other

Possible meanings are 1) the people will do what is right and God will cause the people to live in peace or 2) God will do what is right and will cause the people to live in peace. Either way righteousness and peace are abstract nouns and are spoken of as if they were persons who kiss each other. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

kissed each other

This was a common way for friends to greet each other.

Psalms 85:11

Trustworthiness springs up from the ground

The people on earth being faithful to God is spoken of as if trustworthiness were a plant growing out of the ground. The abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be stated as "loyal." Alternate translation: "Here on earth, we will be loyal to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

righteousness looks down from the sky

The word "righteousness" is an abstract noun, and it is spoken of as a person looking down as God does. Alternate translation: "God will look on us from heaven and will act justly towards us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 85:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 85:13

Righteousness will go before him and make a way for his footsteps

God doing what is right everywhere he goes is spoken of as if righteousness were a person who goes ahead of God and prepares a path for God to walk. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

his footsteps

Here "footsteps" represents where God walks. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 86

Psalms 86:intro-0

Psalm 086 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 86 is a deliverance psalm. He is praying for deliverance from his many enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

God has blessed the psalmist and is so loving to him. He has been one of God's servants. Now he needs God to save him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/love.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 86:1

General Information:

poor and needy

"weak and needy"

Psalms 86:2

save your servant

David refers to himself as "your servant," that is, God's servant. Alternate translation: "save me, your servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 86:3

all day long

This is an exaggeration. David cries out continually, but not literally at all times from dawn to dusk. Alternate translation: "continually" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 86:4

Make your servant glad

David refers to himself as "your servant," that is, God's servant. Alternate translation: "Make me, your servant" or "Make me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 86:5

abounding in steadfast love to all those who cry out to you

The abstract noun "love" can be restated with the verb "loving" Alternate translation: "faithfully loving all those who cry out to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 86:6

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 86:7

In the day of my trouble

"During my times of difficulty"

I call on you

"I pray to you"

Psalms 86:8

among the gods

The writer is not acknowledging these other gods exist. He is referring to false gods that people from other nations worship. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 86:9

All the nations

Here "the nations" represent the people. Alternate translation: "The people from all nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

They will honor your name

Here "name" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "They will honor you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 86:10

wonderful things

"very good things that amaze me"

you only are God

"you are the only God"

Psalms 86:11

Teach me your ways, Yahweh. Then I will walk in your truth

A person who obeys what God wants is spoken of as if he were walking on God's way or road. Alternate translation: "Teach me your truth, Yahweh. Then I will obey what you say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Unite my heart to reverence you

Here "heart" represents a person's thoughts, emotions, and motives. Asking God to cause a person to respect him completely is spoken of as if the person's heart were in many pieces and that God unites them together. Alternate translation: "Cause me to respect you sincerely with all my heart" or "Cause me to respect you sincerely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 86:12

I will praise you with my whole heart

Here "heart" represents a person's thoughts, emotions, and motives. Alternate translation: "I will praise you completely and sincerely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I will glorify your name

Here "name" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will glorify you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 86:13

For great is your covenant faithfulness toward me

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "For you are very faithful to me because of your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

you have rescued my life from the depths of Sheol

This does not mean God brought him back to life after he died. It means God saved him when he was about to die.

Psalms 86:14

the arrogant

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "arrogant people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

have risen up against me

"are coming together to harm me"

seek my life

This is a way of saying they want to kill him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 86:15

and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness

The abstract nouns "love" and "faithfulness" can be expressed with the verb "love" and the adjective "faithful." Alternate translation: "and always loving your people and always being faithful to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 86:16

Turn toward me

Asking God to consider him is spoken of as if he wanted God to turn and look at him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

give your strength to your servant

The abstract noun "strength" can be stated as a verb or an adjective. Alternate translation: "strengthen your servant" or "make your servant strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your servant ... the son of your servant woman

The writer is speaking about himself in the third person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 86:17

be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "they will be ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 87

Psalms 87:intro-0

Psalm 087 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 87 is a psalm about Jerusalem.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Pride

People will be proud to have been born in Jerusalem.

# Psalms about Jerusalem

Psalm 46, 48, and 76 are part of a group of psalms that celebrate Jerusalem.

Psalms 87:1

General Information:

Psalms 87:2

gates of Zion

Here "gates of Zion" represents the entire city of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "city of Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

all the tents of Jacob

The people lived in tents while they wandered in the desert. Here the writer uses "tents of Jacob" to represent where the Israelites live now. Alternate translation: "any of the other dwelling places of the Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 87:3

Glorious things are said of you, city of God

The writer speaks to the city of Jerusalem as if it were listening to him. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You people in Jerusalem, other people say wonderful things about your city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 87:4

I mention

"I tell about." Here "I" refers to Yahweh.

Rahab and Babylon

Here "Rahab" is a poetic way of referring to Egypt. Both "Rahab" and "Babylon" represent the people. Alternate translation: "the people of Egypt and Babylon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

to my followers

"to those who worship me"

This one was born there

"This one" refers to the people from the nations that the writer mentions. Although they were not physically born in Zion, those who follow God are natives of Jerusalem spiritually. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 87:5

Of Zion it will be said

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People will say about Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Each of these was born in her

People from other nations that worship Yahweh are spoken of as if they were born in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "It is as though all of these people were born in Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in her

It was common to refer to cities as "her." Alternate translation: "in Jerusalem" or "in Zion"

the Most High himself

The writer uses the reflexive pronoun "himself" to emphasize that it is the Most High who is doing this. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rpronouns/01.md]])

will establish her

"will make Jerusalem strong"

Psalms 87:6

Yahweh writes in the census book of the nations

Yahweh acknowledging that the people from other nations belong to him is spoken of as if he were a king writing down the names of the people who live in his city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

This one was born there

"This one" refers to the people from the nations that the writer mentions. Although they were not physically born in Zion, those who follow God are natives of Jerusalem spiritually. See how you translated this in Psalms 87:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 87:7

All my fountains are in you

Jerusalem being a place where people receive all their blessings is spoken of as if Jerusalem were a spring that provided water to the people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88

Psalms 88:intro-0

Psalm 088 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 88 is a psalm of deliverance from sickness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Abandon

Ever since he was a child, the psalmist has been sick, and now all his friends have abandoned him. If he dies he cannot testify about God's healing.

Psalms 88:1

General Information:

A song, a psalm of the sons of Korah

"This is a psalm that the sons of Korah wrote"

for the chief musician

"this is for the director of music to use in worship"

set to the Mahalath Leannoth style

This may refer to a style of music. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

Heman

This is the name of a man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

God of my salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "you are the one who saves me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

day and night

The writer uses these words with opposite meanings to say that he cries out continually. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 88:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 88:3

For I am filled with troubles

The writer speaks of himself as if he were a container and troubles are the contents that fill the container. Alternate translation: "For I am very troubled" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my life has reached Sheol

Here "life" represents the writer. And "Sheol" represents death. The writer speaks about himself possibly dying soon as if Sheol were a place and he has arrived at that place. Alternate translation: "I am about to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:4

People treat me like those who go down into the pit

The word "pit" means the same as "Sheol." The phrase "go down into the pit" represents dying. Alternate translation: "people treat me like I have already died" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 88:5

I am abandoned among the dead

People treating the writer as if he were already dead is spoken of as if he were a corpse that they left unburied. Alternate translation: I am left alone as if I were dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I am like the dead who lie in the grave

The writer feeling like people and God have abandoned him speaks about himself as if he were already a dead person lying in a grave. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the dead who lie

The nominal adjective "the dead" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "a dead person who lies" or "dead people who lie" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

about whom you care no more

"who no longer receive your care" or "people you have stopped caring about"

they are cut off from your power

God no longer using his power to help dead people is spoken of as if God literally cut him off or removed him from his power. Alternate translation: "you no longer use your power to help them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:6

You place me in the lowest part of the pit, in the dark and deep places

The writer feeling like God has abandoned him speaks about himself as if God has put the him in the deepest and darkest grave. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:7

Your wrath lies heavy on me

This speaks about God being very angry with the writer as if God's wrath were a heavy object lying on top of the writer. Alternate translation: "I feel your great anger" or "I feel how very angry you are with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all your waves crash over me

This speaks about God being very angry with the writer as if God's anger were large waves rising up from the sea then landing on the writer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:8

my acquaintances

"those who know me"

You have made me a shocking sight to them

"You have made me a disgusting sight to them" or "Because of you, they are shocked when they see me"

I am hemmed in

The writer's physical condition that makes him repulsive to his friends is spoken of as if he were in closed into a confining space. Alternate translation: "It is as though I were in a prison" or "I am trapped" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:9

My eyes grow weary from trouble

Here "eyes" represents a person's ability to see. For his eyes to grow weary from trouble is a way of saying that he his troubles cause him to cry so much that it is hard for him to see. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I spread out my hands to you

"I lift up my hands to you." This is an action that shows that he totally depends on God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 88:10

Will you do wonders for the dead?

The writer uses a question to emphasize that if God lets him die then God will no longer be able to do wonderful things for him. Alternate translation: "You do not do wonders for dead people." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Will those who have died rise and praise you?

The writer uses a question to emphasize that if God lets him die then he will not be able to praise God any longer. Alternate translation: "You know that those who have died will not stand up and praise you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 88:11

Will your covenant faithfulness be proclaimed in the grave, your loyalty in the place of the dead?

Both questions mean the same thing. The writer uses questions to emphasize that a dead person is not able to praise God's faithfulness. The abstract nouns "faithfulness" and "loyalty" can be translated as adjectives. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Nobody will proclaim your covenant faithfulness or loyalty from the grave." or "Nobody will proclaim from the grave that you are faithful to your covenant and loyal to your people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the grave ... the place of the dead

These represent the place where people go after they die.

your loyalty in the place of the dead?

This can be translated as a separate sentence. Alternate translation: "Will your loyalty be proclaimed in the place of the dead?" or "Those who are dead will not proclaim your loyalty." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 88:12

in the darkness ... the place of forgetfulness

These represent the place where people go after they die.

Will your wonderful deeds be known in the darkness, or your righteousness in the place of forgetfulness?

Both questions mean the same thing. The writer uses questions to emphasize that those who are dead are not able to experience or proclaim the great things God does. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People will not talk about your wonderful deeds and righteousness in the dark place of the forgotten dead." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

or your righteousness in the place of forgetfulness?

This can be translated as a separate sentence. Alternate translation: "Will your righteousness be known in the place of forgetfulness?" or "Those who are in the place of forgetfulness will not know about the righteous things you do." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 88:13

my prayer comes before you

The writer praying to Yahweh is spoken of as if the prayer itself goes to speak with Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:14

Why do you hide your face from me?

This speaks of the writer feeling like God has rejected or abandoned him as if God were hiding his face or physically turning away from the writer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 88:16

Your angry actions have passed over me

This speaks of God punishing the writer as if God's actions are a large wave rising out of the sea that fall on and crush the writer. Alternate translation: "It is as if your angry actions crush me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your terrifying deeds have annihilated me

This exaggeration speaks about God punishing the writer as if God has completely destroyed the writer. Alternate translation: "the terrifying things you do have destroyed me" or "the terrifying things you do have almost destroyed me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 88:17

They surround me like water all the day long

The writer compares God's "angry actions" and "terrifying deeds" to a flood of water. Alternate translation: "All day long they threaten to destroy me like a flood" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

They

The word "They" refers to God's "angry actions" and "terrifying deeds" from the previous verse.

they have all encircled me

The writer speaks of God's "angry actions" and "terrifying deeds" as if they were enemies who were trying to capture and kill him. Alternate translation: "they have surrounded me like enemy soldiers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 88:18

every friend and acquaintance

"every person I love and know"

My only acquaintance is the darkness

This speaks about darkness as if it were a person that could be friends with someone else. The writer is emphasizing that he feels completely alone. Alternate translation: "Everywhere I go it is dark" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 89

Psalms 89:intro-0

Psalm 089 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 89 is a worship and a deliverance psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's promises

God is mighty and has promised David an eternal kingdom. But now that kingdom is being destroyed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/eternity.md]])

# Parallelism

This psalm exhibits the kind of parallelism where the second line often emphasizes the first line. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 89:1

General Information:

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

Ethan

This is the name of the writer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

acts of covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "faithful acts" or "loving acts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 89:2

Covenant faithfulness has been established forever

God always doing what he promised to do is spoken of as if his faithfulness were a building that God has built and made firm. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You will always be faithful because of your covenant with us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your truthfulness you have established in the heavens

God always doing what he promised to do is spoken of as if his faithfulness were a building that God has built and made firm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the heavens

These words could refer to 1) God's dwelling place, meaning that God rules from heaven and he always does what he promises, or 2) the sky, meaning that God's promises are as constant and permanent as the sky .

Psalms 89:3

I have made a covenant with my chosen one

You can make explicit that "chosen one" refers to David. Alternate translation: "I made a promise to David, the one I chose" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I have made

Yahweh is speaking in 89:3-4.

Psalms 89:4

I will establish your descendants forever

Yahweh always causing one of David's descendants to be king is spoken of as if David's descendants are a building that Yahweh will build and make firm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will establish your throne through all generations

Here "throne" represents the power to rule as king. The psalmist speaks of God promising that one of David's descendants will always rule as king as if God will build David's throne and make it firm. Alternate translation: "I will make sure that one of your descendants will rule as king over every generation of my people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:5

The heavens praise

Here "heavens" represents those who are in heaven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

praise your wonders, Yahweh

"praise you, Yahweh, because of the wonderful things you do"

your truthfulness is praised in the assembly of the holy ones

The abstract noun "truthfulness" can be stated as "you always do what you promise to do." This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The assembly of the holy ones praises you because you always do what you promise to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the assembly of the holy ones

This refers to the angels in heaven.

Psalms 89:6

For who in the skies can be compared to Yahweh? Who among the sons of the gods is like Yahweh?

Both questions mean the same thing. The writer is using question to emphasize that there in no one in heaven like Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

sons of the gods

Here "sons of" means having the characteristics of. This is a way of referring to other spiritual beings that live in heaven. Alternate translation: "angels" or "divine beings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 89:7

He is a God who is greatly honored in the council of the holy ones

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The council of the holy ones greatly honors God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the council of the holy ones

"the gathering of heavenly beings" or "the gathering of angels"

Psalms 89:8

who is strong like you, Yahweh?

The writer asks the question to emphasize there is no one as strong as Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Your truthfulness surrounds you

Yahweh always dong what he promises to do is spoken of as if his truthfulness were a cloak or garment that wraps around him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:9

You rule the raging sea

"You control the raging sea"

Psalms 89:10

You crushed Rahab as one who is killed

The word "Rahab" here refers to a monster of the sea. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

with your strong arm

Here "arm" represents power. Alternate translation: "with your great power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:11

General Information:

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Psalms 89:12

the north and the south

The writer uses the words "north" and "south" together to mean that God created everything everywhere. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Tabor and Hermon rejoice in your name

Tabor is a mountain southwest of the sea of Galilee and Hermon is a mountain northeast of the sea of Galilee. The writer describes these mountains as if they were persons who could rejoice. Alternate translation: "It is as if Mount Tabor and Mount Hermon were rejoicing in your name" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

in your name

Here "name" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "in you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:13

You have a mighty arm and a strong hand, and your right hand is high

The words "mighty arm," "strong hand," and "right hand" all represent God's power. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

right hand is high

To raise the right hand high into the air is a gesture that indicates power. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 89:14

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne

God ruling as king and doing what is right and just is spoken of as if God's throne were a building, and righteousness and justice were its foundation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your throne

The throne represents God's rule as king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Steadfast love and faithfulness come before you

The abstract nouns "love" and "faithfulness" are spoken of as if they come and meet with God. Alternate translation: "You are always faithful to your covenant and are worthy of people trusting you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:15

who worship you

Here the word "worship" implies shouting and blowing horns. These were common acts of worship during Israelite festivals. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

they walk

Here people living their lives is spoken of as if they were walking. Alternate translation: "they live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the light of your face

The writer speaks of Yahweh acting favorably towards them as if Yahweh's face shone a light on them. Alternate translation: "knowing that you act favorably towards them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:16

in your name

Here "name" represents the person. Alternate translation: "in you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in your righteousness they exalt you

The abstract noun "righteousness" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "they exalt you because you always do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 89:17

You are their majestic strength

The abstract noun "strength" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "You make them wonderfully strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

You are their

Here "their" refers to the Israelites. The writer would have included himself as a member of the Israelites. Alternate translation: "You are our" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

we are victorious

Here "we" refers to the writer and the Israelites but not to Yahweh, to whom he speaks. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Psalms 89:18

For our shield belongs to Yahweh

The king who protects his people and whom Yahweh chose is spoken of as if he were a shield that belongs to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:19

General Information:

The writer assumes that the reader knows the history of how David became the chosen king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I have set a crown on a mighty one

To place a crown on a person's head is a sign of making him king. Alternate translation: "I have made a mighty man king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

set a crown on a mighty one

Some Bible translations have "given strength to a mighty one" or "helped a mighty one."

I have raised up one chosen from among the people

Here "raised up" means appointed. It is implied that God chose this person to be king. Alternate translation: "I have chosen one from among the people to be king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 89:20

with my holy oil have I anointed him

Here to pour oil on someone's head is a sign that God is appointing the person to be king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 89:21

My hand will support him; my arm will strengthen him

Here "hand" and "arm" both means the power and control of Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I will support him and make him strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 89:22

son of wickedness

The writer refers to those who have the nature or character of wickedness as "sons of wickedness." Alternate translation: "wicked person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:23

General Information:

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Psalms 89:24

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues speaking about David.

My truth and my covenant faithfulness will be with him

God always being loyal and doing what he promises for David is spoken of as if truth and faithfulness were objects that would be with David. The abstract nouns "truth" and "faithfulness" can be translated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "I will always be truthful with him and I will always act faithfully towards him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

by my name he will be victorious

Here "name" represents God' power. Alternate translation: "I, God, will cause him to be victorious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:25

I will place his hand over the sea and his right hand over the rivers

Here "hand" and "right hand" represent power and authority. Here "the sea" seems to refer to the Mediterranean Sea west of Israel, and "rivers" refers to the Euphrates river in the east. This means David will have authority over everything from the sea to the river. Alternate translation: "I will give him authority over everything from the Mediterranean sea to the Euphrates river" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 89:26

He will call out to me, 'You are my Father, my God, and the rock of my salvation.'

This has a quotation within a quotation. It can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "He will say that I am his Father, his God, and the rock of his salvation." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

the rock of my salvation

Yahweh protecting and saving David is spoken of as if Yahweh were a high rock that David could stand on top of for protection from enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:27

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues speaking about David.

I also will place him as my firstborn son

Yahweh giving David special rank and privileges over all other people is spoken of as if David would be Yahweh's firstborn son. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:28

I will extend my covenant faithfulness to him forever

Yahweh speaks of continuing to act faithfully towards David is spoken of as if Yahweh's covenant faithfulness were an object that he extends or makes longer. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adverb. Alternate translation: "I will continue to act faithfully towards him forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 89:29

his throne as enduring as the skies above

Someone from David's family always ruling as king is spoken of as if his his throne would last as long as the sky will last. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

his throne

Here "throne" represents the power to rule as king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:30

his children

"David's descendants"

Psalms 89:31

General Information:

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Psalms 89:32

punish their rebellion with a rod

God punishing David's descendants is spoken of as if he would hit them with a rod. The abstract noun "rebellion" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "punish them for rebelling against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

their iniquity with blows

God punishing David's descendants is spoken of as if God would literally hit them. This can be stated as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: "I will punish them because they sinned against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 89:33

I will not remove my steadfast love from him or be unfaithful to my promise

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I will always love David, and I will do what I promised to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 89:34

the words of my lips

Here "lips" represent the whole mouth and the person speaking. Alternate translation: "what I said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 89:35

General Information:

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Psalms 89:36

his throne as long as the sun before me

The words "will continue" are understood. Alternate translation: "his throne will continue as long as the sun before me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

his throne

Here "throne" represents the power to rule as king. God is promising that one of David's descendants will always be king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

as long as the sun before me

God compares David's rule as king to the sun to emphasize that someone from David's descendants will always rule as king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 89:37

It will be established forever

Here "It" stands for David's throne or power to rule as king. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will cause it to last forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

forever like the moon

God compares David's rule as king to the moon to emphasize that someone from David's descendants will always rule as king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the moon, the faithful witness in the sky

The moon is spoken of as if it were a person who witnesses God making this promise to David. Alternate translation: "the moon, which is like a faithful witness in the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 89:38

you have refused and rejected

The words "the king" are understood. Alternate translation: "you have refused and rejected the king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

with your anointed king

"with the king you chose"

Psalms 89:39

You have renounced the covenant

"You have rejected the covenant"

You have desecrated his crown on the ground

To push down into the ground or dust is a sign of great humiliation. Alternate translation: "You have defiled his crown on the ground" or "You have caused his crown to fall into the dirt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

his crown

This represents the king's power as king and his right to rule. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:40

You have broken down all his walls. You have ruined his strongholds

This implies that God allowed enemies to destroy the defenses at Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "You have allowed enemies to break down his walls and ruin his strongholds in Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 89:41

to his neighbors

Here "neighbors" means people of nearby nations.

Psalms 89:42

raised the right hand of his enemies

Here "right hand" represents power. To "raise the right hand" means that Yahweh has made his enemies strong enough to defeat God's chosen king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 89:43

turn back the edge of his sword

Here "sword" represents the king's power in battle. To turn the sword back represents making the king unable to win in battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the edge of his sword

Here "edge" represents the whole sword. Alternate translation: "his sword" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

have not made him stand when in battle

Here "stand" represents being victorious in battle. Alternate translation: "You have not helped him to be victorious in battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:44

you have brought down his throne to the ground

Here "throne" represents the power to rule as king. Alternate translation: "you, Yahweh, have ended his reign as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:45

You have shortened the days of his youth

This is a way of saying God made the king seem old even while he was still young. Alternate translation: "Even while he is young you have made him weak like an old man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

covered him with shame

Yahweh completely humiliating the king is spoken of as if shame were a garment that God used to cover the king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 89:46

How long, Yahweh? Will you hide yourself forever?

The writer uses these questions to emphasize that he does not want God to continue to refuse the king. Alternate translation: "Please, Yahweh, do not refuse to help the king forever." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Will you hide yourself

God not helping the king is spoken of as if God were hiding from him. Alternate translation: "Will you refuse to help the king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

How long will your anger burn like fire?

The writer uses a question to emphasize that he does not want God to remain angry. Alternate translation: "Please do not continue being angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

your anger burn like fire

God being very angry is spoken of as if his anger were a hot fire. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 89:47

for what uselessness you have created all the children of mankind

The abstract noun "uselessness" can be stated as "uselessly." Alternate translation: "that you have created all people to die uselessly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the children of mankind

This refers to humans in general. Alternate translation: "humans" or "people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

Psalms 89:48

Who can live and not die, or rescue his own life from the hand of Sheol?

The writer uses these questions to emphasize that all people will die. Alternate translation: "No one can live forever or bring himself back to life after dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

rescue his own life from the hand of Sheol

Here "hand" refers to power. The writer speaks of Sheol as if it were a person who has power over those who die. Possible meanings are 1) a person cannot bring himself back to life after dying or 2) a person cannot keep himself from dying. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 89:49

Lord, where are your former acts of covenant faithfulness that you swore to David in your truthfulness?

The writer uses a question to request the Lord to be faithful to his covenant with David. Alternate translation: "Lord, be faithful to your covenant with David as you have been in the past" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

your former acts of covenant faithfulness

The abstract nouns "acts" and "faithfulness" can be translated with a verb and an adverb. Alternate translation: "the things that you did before that showed that you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 89:50

Call to mind

The writer asks Yahweh to bring this up in his memory. Alternate translation: "Remember" or "Consider" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the mocking directed against your servants

Here "your servants" refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "how they mock us, your servants"

how I bear in my heart so many insults from the nations

Here "heart" represents the person's emotions. Alternate translation: "I endure so many insults from the people of the nations" or "I suffer because the people from the nations insult me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from the nations

Here "nations" represents the people of the nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:51

Your enemies hurl insults

The enemies shouting insults at the king is spoken of as if insults were an object that the enemies throw violently at the king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they mock the footsteps of your anointed one

Here "footsteps" represents where the king goes. Alternate translation: "they mock your anointed one wherever he goes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 89:52

General Information:

This verse is more than the end of this psalm. It is the closing statement for all of Book 3 of the Psalms, which starts at Psalm 73 and ends with Psalm 89.

Blessed be Yahweh forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May people praise Yahweh forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Amen and Amen

The word "Amen" is repeated to emphasize approval of what has been said. See how you translated this in Psalms 41:13.

Psalms 90

Psalms 90:intro-0

Psalm 090 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm is a wisdom psalm. God is eternal but a human's life is short. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/eternity.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Life's shortness

Because life is so short, people need to spend it as God wants them to spend it.

Psalms 90:1

General Information:

Lord, you have been our refuge

God protecting his people is spoken of as if God were a refuge or shelter. Alternate translation: "Lord, you have been like a shelter for us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

throughout all generations

"always"

Psalms 90:2

Before the mountains were formed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Before you formed the mountains" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

were formed

"were created" or "were shaped"

the world

This represents everything that is in the world. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from everlasting to everlasting

This phrase represents all time past, present, and future.

Psalms 90:3

You return man to dust

This implies that just as God created the first man, Adam, from the soil, God will cause people's bodies to turn back into soil after they die. Alternate translation: "You return people to dust when they die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

return man

Here "man" means people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

Return, you descendants

The words "to dust" or "to soil" are understood. Alternate translation: "Return to dust, you descendants" or "Return to soil, you descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

you descendants of mankind

This is a way of referring to humans in general. Alternate translation: "you humans" or "you people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 90:4

For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night

The writer means that a long period of time seems like a short period of time to God. Alternate translation: "You consider a thousand years the same as one day in the past, or as a few short hours in the night" or "Even a thousand years is not a long time to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

a thousand years

"1,000 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

in your sight

Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 90:5

You sweep them away as with a flood and they sleep

God causing people to die suddenly is spoken of as if he swept them away with a broom. This sweeping is also spoken of as if it were a flood that carried people away. Alternate translation: "Lord, you destroy the people as with a flood and they die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they sleep

This is a polite way of speaking of people dying. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 90:6

it blooms and grows up

Both of these phrases refer to how the grass grows. Alternate translation: "it begins to grow and develop" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

it withers and dries up

Both of these phrases refer to how the grass dies. Alternate translation: "it fades and dries up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 90:7

we are consumed in your anger

God destroying people in his anger is spoken of as if God's anger were a fire that completely burns up the people. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You destroy us in your anger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in your wrath we are terrified

"when you are angry we are greatly afraid"

Psalms 90:8

You have set our iniquities before you, our hidden sins in the light of your presence

God considering people's sins is spoken of as if sins were an objects he could place in front of himself and look at them. Alternate translation: "You see every sinful thing we do, even the sinful things we do in secret" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 90:9

Our life passes away under your wrath

The word "because" can be used to make clear that God's wrath causes human life to end. Alternate translation: "Our lives come to an end because of your wrath" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-connectingwords/01.md]])

like a sigh

The writer compares human life to a sigh to emphasize that life is very brief. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 90:10

seventy

"70" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

eighty

"80" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

even our best years are marked by trouble and sorrow

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Even in our best years we experience trouble and sorrow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

we fly away

This is a polite way of referring to people dying. Alternate translation: "we die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 90:11

Who knows the intensity of your anger, and your wrath that is equal to the fear of you?

The writer uses a question to emphasize that no one has fully experienced God anger. Therefore no one truly reveres God and fears his anger when people sin. Alternate translation: "No one knows the intensity of your anger. Therefore no one fears your wrath when they sin." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 90:12

General Information:

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Psalms 90:13

Turn back, Yahweh! How long will it be?

Asking Yahweh to no longer be angry is spoken of as if the writer wants God to turn physically away from his anger. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, please do not be angry any longer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

How long will it be?

The writer uses a question to state that he wants God to stop being angry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Have pity on your servants

Here "your servants" refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Be merciful to us, your servants"

Psalms 90:14

Satisfy us in the morning

"Satisfy us every morning"

with your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "by being faithful because of your covenant with us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 90:15

in proportion to the days you afflicted us and to the years we have experienced trouble

Both of these phrases mean the same thing. The writer is asking Yahweh to make them happy for the same amount of time he punished them. Alternate translation: "for the same amount of time that you afflicted us and caused us to suffer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 90:16

Let your servants

Here "your servants" refer to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Let us, your servants" or "Let us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

let our children

Here "children" means children and descendants.

see your majesty

The abstract noun "majesty" can be stated as "great things." Alternate translation: "see the great things you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 90:17

May the favor of the Lord our God be ours

The abstract noun "favor" can be stated as "be kind." Alternate translation: "May the Lord our God be kind to us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

prosper the work of our hands

Here "hands" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "cause us to be successful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 91

Psalms 91:intro-0

Psalm 091 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 91 is a wisdom psalm. Those who depend on God are protected by him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Fear

No matter what dangers befall a person, they do not need to fear. God is protecting them from all harm.

Psalms 91:1

General Information:

He who lives ... will stay ... of the Almighty

Because "live" and "stay" mean almost the same thing, as do "shelter" and "shadow," which are both metaphors for protection, you may need to combine the two lines into one. Alternate translation: "The Most High, the Almighty, will care for all those who live where he can protect them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

who lives in the shelter of the Most High

The word "shelter" is a metaphor for protection. Alternate translation: "who lives where the Most High protects him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the Most High

The words "the Most High" refer to Yahweh. See how this is translated in Psalms 18:13.

will stay in the shadow of the Almighty

The word "shadow" here is a metaphor for protection. Alternate translation: "will stay where the Almighty can protect him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the Almighty

the one who has power and control over everything. See how this was translated in Psalms 68:14

Psalms 91:2

I will say of Yahweh

"I will say about Yahweh"

my refuge and my fortress

A "refuge" is any place a person can go and have someone or something protect him. A "fortress" is something that people make so they can protect themselves and their property. Asaph uses them here as metaphors for protection. Alternate translation: "the one to whom I can go and he will protect me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 91:3

For he will rescue you from the snare of the hunter and from the deadly plague

The words that have been left out can be put in. Alternate translation: "For God will rescue you from the snare of the hunter and he will rescue you from the plagues that can kill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the snare of the hunter

"from the snare that the hunter has set to catch you"

Psalms 91:4

He will cover you with his wings, and under his wings you will find refuge

God's protection is here referred to as "wings" which a bird uses to cover its' young from danger. "Cover you with his wings" and "under his wings" mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: "He will keep you safe and protect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

His trustworthiness is a shield and protection

God's trustworthiness is here referred to as a "shield" which can protect people who rely on him. The abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be stated as "trust." Alternate translation: "You can trust him to protect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

protection

No one knows for sure what this word means. Possible meanings are 1) a small shield strapped to the forearm that soldiers used to defend themselves against arrows and swords or 2) a wall of stones set in a circle inside which soldiers could hide and shoot arrows.

Psalms 91:5

terror in the night

The psalmist speaks of "terror" as if it were a spirit or fierce animal that could attack at night and so terrify people. Alternate translation: "things attacking you at night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in the night ... by day

These two phrases taken together refer to all possible times of night and day. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

the arrow that flies by day

"Arrow" here is a metonym for the people who shoot the arrows. Alternate translation: "people attacking you with arrows during the day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 91:6

or of the plague that stalks

The psalmist speaks of illness as if it were a person who went about at night killing other people. Alternate translation: "You will not be afraid of dying from illness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

stalks

sneaks up to attack prey or a victim

in the darkness ... at noon

These two phrases taken together refer to all possible times of night and day. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

plague

an illness that makes many people ill at the same time

Psalms 91:7

A thousand may fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand

"Many people may fall all around you." If translating the exact numbers confuses the readers, you may omit them.

it will not reach you

"the evil will not harm you"

Psalms 91:8

You will only observe and see

"You yourself will not suffer, but you will watch carefully, and you will see"

the punishment of the wicked

The abstract noun "punishment" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "how God punishes the wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 91:9

Yahweh is my refuge

The writer speaks of Yahweh protecting him as if Yahweh were a safe place for him to find protection from his enemies. Alternate translation: "Yahweh protects me, like a person finds protection in a place of refuge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Make the Most High your refuge also

"You should make the Most High your refuge also." The psalmist stops speaking to God and speaks to the reader.

Psalms 91:10

No evil will overtake you

The writer speaks of a person experiencing bad or evil things as if evil were a person who overtakes another person. Alternate translation: "Nothing evil will happen to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

no affliction will come near your home

The psalmist speaks of people who afflict others as though they were the harm they cause. Alternate translation: "no one will be able to harm your family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 91:11

For he will direct

"Yahweh will command"

in all your ways

The psalmist speaks of the way a person lives his life as if it were a path down which the person walked. Alternate translation: "in everything you do" or "at all times" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 91:12

They will lift you

"Yahweh's angels will lift you"

you will not hit your foot on a stone

The angels will protect not only the reader's foot but the rest of his body as well. The words "not ... hit your foot on a stone" is an exaggerated metonym to say that not even small bad things will happen. This should probably not be taken as a promise that no bad things will ever happen again. Alternate translation: "you will not even hit your foot on a stone" or "not even the smallest bad thing will happen to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 91:13

You will crush lions and adders under your feet; you will trample on young lions and serpents

Where "hit your foot on a stone" is a minor problem, lions and snake are examples of great dangers. The psalmist speaks of lions and snakes as if they were small enough to be crushed under a person's foot. Alternate translation: "You will be able kill lions and adders as if they were small animals you could crush under your feet" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

adders

types of poisonous snake.

trample

crush by walking heavily on

Psalms 91:14

Because he is devoted to me

"Because he loves me"

Psalms 91:15

I will be with him in trouble

This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "I will be with him when he is in trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I will give him victory

The abstract noun "victory" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "I will cause him to be victorious" or "I will enable him to defeat his enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 91:16

will satisfy him with the length of his days

The idiom "the length of his days" here refers to the duration of his life. It may imply a long life. Alternate translation: "I will satisfy him by giving him a long life" or "I will make him happy by letting him live a very long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

and show him my salvation

"and I will show him my salvation." The psalmist speaks of the work God does to save people as if it were a physical object. Alternate translation: "I will save him so that he knows I am the one who saved him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 92

Psalms 92:intro-0

Psalm 092 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 92 is a psalm of praise for God's kindness and faithfulness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Justice

God causes evil people to be destroyed and good people to be happy and useful, even after they grow old. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Psalms 92:1

General Information:

to sing praises to your name

The words "your name" are a metonym for "you." Alternate translation: "to sing praises to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 92:2

proclaim your covenant faithfulness in the morning

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with the adjective "faithful." Alternate translation: "proclaim in the morning that you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your truthfulness every night

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. The abstract noun "truthfulness" can be translated with the adjective "true." Alternate translation: "proclaim every night that everything you say is true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 92:3

General Information:

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Psalms 92:4

glad

happy

through your deeds

The abstract noun phrase "your deeds" can be translated with the relative clause "what you have done." Alternate translation: "by what you have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the deeds of your hands

The abstract noun phrase "the deeds of your hands" can be translated with the relative clause "what your hands have done." The word "hands" is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "What you have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

your deeds

The abstract noun phrase "your deeds" can be translated with a relative clause. Alternate translation: "what you have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 92:5

Your thoughts are very deep

"We cannot understand what you plan to do until you do it"

Your thoughts

The abstract noun phrase "your thoughts" can be translated with a relative clause. Alternate translation: "What you think" or "What you plan" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 92:6

brutish

animal-like

Psalms 92:7

When the wicked sprout like the grass

This compares evil people to grass, which grows quickly and in many places. Alternate translation: "When evil people appear quickly and seem to be everywhere, like grass" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they are doomed to eternal destruction

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has decided that he will destroy them completely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 92:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 92:9

Indeed, look at your enemies, Yahweh

Many texts do not have these words.

They will perish

"They will die" or "You will kill them"

All those who do evil will be scattered

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you will scatter all those who do evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

will be scattered

Many texts read, "have been scattered."

be scattered

"driven away"

Psalms 92:10

You have lifted up my horn like the horn of the wild ox

The psalmist speaks of God as if he had made him as strong as a wild animal. Here his "horn" represents his strength. Alternate translation: "You have made me as strong as a wild ox" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I am anointed with fresh oil

Possible meanings are that the oil that God has put on the psalmist is a metaphor for God 1) making him happy "you have made me very happy" or 2) making him strong, "you have made me strong" or 3) enabling him to defeat his enemies, "you have enabled me to defeat my enemies." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 92:11

My eyes have seen the downfall of my enemies; my ears have heard of the doom of my evil foes

The words "eyes" and "ears" are synecdoches for the person who sees and hears. The lines may be combined. Alternate translation: "I have seen and heard of the defeat of my evil enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 92:12

The righteous will flourish like the palm tree

Possible meanings are that righteous people will be like a healthy palm tree because they will 1) be strong or 2) live for long time. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they will grow like a cedar in Lebanon

Possible meanings are that righteous people will be like a healthy cedar tree growing in the land of Lebanon because 1) they will be strong or 2) people will honor them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 92:13

They are planted

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has planted them" or "Yahweh takes care of them as if they were trees he had planted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the house of Yahweh ... in the courts of our God

The psalmist speaks of people who truly worship God as if they were trees growing in Yahweh's house. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they flourish

The psalmist speaks of righteous people as if they were healthy trees. Alternate translation: "they are growing well" or "they are very strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the courts of our God

in the courtyard of the temple in Jerusalem.

Psalms 92:14

They bear fruit

The psalmist speaks of righteous people as if they were trees that produce food. Alternate translation: "They please God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they stay fresh and green

The psalmist speaks of righteous people as if they were trees. Alternate translation: "they remain strong and healthy" or "they always do what pleases God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 92:15

to proclaim that

These words continue the thought begun by the words "they stay fresh and green" in (Psalms 92:14). Possible meanings are 1) "they stay fresh and green, so that they can proclaim" or 2) "they stay fresh and green. This shows that."

He is my rock

"Yahweh is the one who protects me." The psalmist speaks of Yahweh as if he were a rock that would protect him. See how this is translated in Psalms 18:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 93

Psalms 93:intro-0

Psalm 093 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 93 is a worship psalm about the power of Yahweh.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's power

Yahweh is all powerful; He even controls the ocean.

Psalms 93:1

General Information:

he is robed in majesty; Yahweh has clothed and girded himself with strength

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh's strength and majesty as if they were things Yahweh wears. Alternate translation: "he shows everyone that he is a powerful king" or "his majesty is there for all to see, like the robe a king wears; everything about Yahweh shows that he is strong and he is ready to do great work" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

majesty

the power of a king and the way a king acts

girded himself

put on a belt—a band of leather or another material that a person wears around his waist—to prepare for work or battle

The world is firmly established

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You have firmly established the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

it cannot be moved

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one will ever move it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 93:2

Your throne is established from ancient times

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You established your throne in ancient times" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you are from everlasting

"you have always existed"

Psalms 93:3

oceans ... oceans'

Some versions read "floods ... floods'." The word often refers to a river (See: "the River" in Psalms 72:8), but "oceans ... oceans'" has been chosen here because oceans, not rivers, have "waves" that "crash and roar."

have lifted up their voice; the oceans' waves crash and roar

The psalmist speaks of the ocean as if it were a person who could speak. Alternate translation: "have made a mighty noise because their waves crash and roar" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

roar

make a long, loud sound.

Psalms 93:4

Above the crashing of many waves, the mighty breakers of the sea

The phrase "the mighty breakers of the sea" means basically the same thing as "many waves" and emphasizes how great these waves are. Alternate translation: "Above the crashing of all of the very great waves of the sea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

breakers

large waves coming to land

on high

The psalmist speaks of where God lives as if it were high above the earth. Alternate translation: "in heaven" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 93:5

solemn

very serious

are very trustworthy

"always stay the same" or "never change"

holiness adorns your house

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh's house as if it were a woman wearing beautiful clothing or jewelry and of Yahweh's holiness as the beautiful clothing or jewelry. Alternate translation: "your house is beautiful because you are holy" or "your holiness makes your house beautiful the way beautiful clothes and jewelry make a woman more beautiful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

adorns

makes beautiful

your house

This refers to the temple in Jerusalem.

for the length of your days

This idiom refers to the duration of God's life. Since God lives forever, it can also be translated as forever. Alternate translation: "for as long as you live" or "forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 94

Psalms 94:intro-0

Psalm 094 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 94 is a prayer requesting that evil people be punished. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Justice

Evil people expect God to ignore their injustices. But God knows what they are doing and will punish them for their evil deeds. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/works.md]])

Psalms 94:1

General Information:

shine over us

Here "shine" is a metaphor for God revealing himself. Alternate translation: "show yourself" or "reveal your glory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 94:2

Rise up, judge of the earth, give to the proud what they deserve

"Come, judge of the earth, and punish the proud"

Rise up

The psalmist speaks of starting to do something as getting up. If your language has a word for beginning to act, use it here. Alternate translation: "Take action" or "Do something" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 94:3

How long will the wicked, Yahweh, how long will the wicked rejoice?

The psalmist repeats the question to show that he is unhappy with how long Yahweh has allowed the wicked to rejoice. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You have waited too long Yahweh; you have waited too long to stop the wicked from rejoicing." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

will the wicked rejoice

Why the wicked rejoice can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "will the wicked rejoice because you never punish them for the evil deeds they do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 94:4

They pour out

"All those who do evil pour out"

They pour out their arrogant words

The psalmist writes of the wicked speaking as if their words were a liquid being poured out. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all those who do evil boast

The translation can make explicit that these people boast about their evil actions. Alternate translation: "all those who do evil boast about their evil deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 94:5

afflict the nation

Here the metonym "nation" refers to the people of the nation. Alternate translation: "afflict the people of the nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

They crush

The psalmist speaks of powerful people treating powerless people badly as if it were crushing them or breaking them in pieces. See how "break in pieces" is translated in Psalms 72:4. Alternate translation: "They completely destroy" or "They greatly harm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 94:6

the widow

"women whose husbands have died"

the fatherless

"children without fathers"

Psalms 94:7

the God of Jacob does not take notice of it

"the God of Israel does not see what we do"

Psalms 94:8

General Information:

The writer now instructs the wicked people.

when will you ever learn?

This rhetorical question emphasizes the anger of the writer with the wicked people he is speaking to. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "stop your foolish ways!" or "learn from your mistakes!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 94:9

He who made the ear, does he not hear? He who formed the eye, does he not see?

These rhetorical questions can be translated as statements or commands. Alternate translation: "God made ears, so he can hear. God made eyes, so he can see." or "God made ears, so stop acting as if he does not hear. God made eyes, so stop acting as if he does not see." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 94:10

General Information:

The writer continues instructing the wicked people.

He who disciplines the nations, does he not correct?

This question can be translated as a statement. It is implied that Yahweh corrects his people. Alternate translation: "You know that Yahweh corrects the nations, so you can be sure that he will correct his people!" or "he will punish his people!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

does he not correct

This can be stated in positive form. Possible meanings are 1) God corrects. Alternate translation: "he corrects" or 2) God punishes. "he punishes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 94:11

that they are vapor

Here the thoughts of men are compared to vapor or steam that disappears into the air. This metaphor shows how unimportant and useless they are. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

vapor

"mist." See how this word is translated in Psalms 39:11

Psalms 94:12

General Information:

Now the writer again talks to Yahweh.

Psalms 94:13

until a pit is dug for the wicked

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh's punishing the wicked as if Yahweh were trapping an animal in a pit. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "until you dig a pit for the wicked" or "until you destroy the wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 94:14

his inheritance

"those whom he has chosen to be with him forever"

Psalms 94:15

judgment will again be righteous

The psalmist speaks of those who judge as if they were the decisions they make. The abstract noun "judgment" can be translated with the verb "judge." Alternate translation: "judges will again judge righteously" or "judges will again make righteous decisions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the upright in heart

The adjective phrase "upright in heart" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "those whose hearts are right with God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

will follow it

"will want the judges to judge righteously"

Psalms 94:16

Who will rise up to defend me against the evildoers? Who will stand up for me against the wicked?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "No one will defend me against the evildoers. No one will help me fight against the wicked." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the wicked

The adjective "wicked" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 94:17

Unless Yahweh had been my help ... silence

This statement describes something that could have happened but did not. Yahweh did help him, so he was not lying in the place of silence. Alternate translation: "If Yahweh had not been my help ... silence (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

Unless Yahweh had been my help

The abstract noun "help" can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: "If Yahweh had not helped me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

I would soon be lying down in the place of silence

Here "would be lying down" refers to "death" and "in the place of silence" refers to the grave." Alternate translation: "in a short time, I would be dead, lying in a silent grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 94:18

Your covenant faithfulness, Yahweh, held me up

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "You, Yahweh, held me up because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 94:19

When cares within me are many, your consolations make me happy

The psalmist speaks of care as if he could count separate cares. The abstract noun "consolations" can be translated with the verb "console" or "comfort." Alternate translation: "When I have been worried about many things, you have comforted me and made me happy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 94:20

Can a throne of destruction be allied with you, one who creates injustice by statute?

This rhetorical question is used to make a point. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "A wicked ruler who makes unjust laws is not your friend" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

a throne of destruction

Here the metonym "throne" refers to a king or ruler. Alternate translation: "a wicked ruler" or "corrupt judge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 94:21

conspire

secretly plan with a person something harmful or illegal

take the life of

This is an idiom which means to kill someone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 94:22

Yahweh has been my high tower

Here "tower" is a metaphor for protection. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has protected me from my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

God has been the rock of my refuge

The psalmist speaks of having God protect him as if God were a place where the psalmist could go to be safe. See how "rock" and "refuge" are translated in Psalms 62:7. Alternate translation: "I have asked God to protect me, and he has kept me safe by his power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 94:23

will bring on them their own iniquity

Possible meanings are 1) "will do to them the evil things they have done to others" or 2) "will punish them for all the evil things he has done to others."

cut them off

This is an idiom which means "kill them." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in their own wickedness

Possible meanings are 1) "while they are doing wicked things" or 2) "because they have done wicked things."

Psalms 95

Psalms 95:intro-0

Psalm 095 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 95 is the first in a series of six worship psalms (Psalms 95-100).

Special concepts in this chapter

# God's care

God made everything and takes good care of people. People should not be stubborn like the Israelites were in the days of Moses. The Israelites with Moses wandered in the desert for forty years.

Psalms 95:1

General Information:

the rock of our salvation

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh as if Yahweh were a mountain the people could climb so they would be safe. See how "rock" and "of my salvation" are translated in Psalms 18:46. Alternate translation: "the rock where we can go and God will save us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 95:2

enter his presence

The psalmist speaks as if he is telling the readers to go into the throne room of a king. Alternate translation: "go to where he is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with thanksgiving

"thanking him as we enter his presence"

Psalms 95:3

superior to all gods

Possible meanings are that Yahweh is a great king 1) "who rules over all other gods," or 2) "who is much better than all gods."

Psalms 95:4

In his hand

This is an idiom which means "in his control" or "he is responsible for." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

depths

deep places

heights

high places

Psalms 95:5

his hands formed

The word "hands" is a metonym for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "he himself formed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 95:6

kneel

put both knees on the ground, often to show submission (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 95:7

the people of his pasture

The word "pasture" is a metonym for the food that animals eat in the pasture, which in turn is a synecdoche for everything that Yahweh provides for his people. Alternate translation: "we are the people whose needs he meets" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

pasture

an area where animals find grass to eat

the sheep of his hand

The word "hand" here refers to how Yahweh protects his people the way a shepherd protects his sheep. Alternate translation: "the people whom he protects like a shepherd protects his sheep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Today—oh, that you would hear his voice!

"Oh, that you would hear his voice today!" The psalmist purposely interrupts what he is saying.

hear his voice

Here "his voice" represents God speaking or what he says. Alternate translation: "listen to God speak" or "hear what God says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 95:8

General Information:

Now the writer writes the words that Yahweh spoke.

harden your heart

"become stubborn"

Meribah, ... Massah

These are places in the desert that Moses named because the Israelites rebelled against God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 95:9

tested me ... tried me

These two phrases are both metaphors for the people seeing how much evil they could do before Yahweh would punish them. The phrases say basically the same thing and can be combined. Alternate translation: "tested me" or "wanted to see if they could do evil things without my punishing them ... tested whether I would continue to be patient with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

my deeds

"the amazing things I had done"

Psalms 95:10

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking directly to his people.

forty years

"40 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

that generation

"all of those people" or "that entire generation of people"

wander astray

God speaks of the people as if they were sheep, which will go wherever they want to and not stay near their shepherd. Alternate translation: "move away from me" or "go their own way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they have not known my ways

Yahweh's commands are spoken of as if they were paths on which the people should walk. The people not obeying Yahweh's commands is spoken of as if they did not know these paths. Alternate translation: "they have not obeyed my commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 95:11

my resting place

"the place where I would have allowed them to rest"

Psalms 96

Psalms 96:intro-0

Psalm 096 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 96 is one of six worship psalms (Psalms 95-100).

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh, the king

Yahweh is king over all the earth and is worthy of all praise.

Psalms 96:1

General Information:

a new song

a song no one has ever sung before

all the earth

This refers to the people of the earth. Alternate translation: "all you people who live on the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 96:2

bless his name

The word "name" is a metonym for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "bless Yahweh" or "do what makes Yahweh happy" See how "may his glorious name be blessed" is translated in Psalms 72:19. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

announce his salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be translated using the verb "save." Alternate translation: "announce that he has saved us" or "tell people that he is the one who saves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 96:3

Declare his glory among the nations

"Tell all the people in every nation about his great glory"

Psalms 96:4

Yahweh is great and is to be praised greatly

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is great. Praise him greatly" or "Yahweh is great, and people should praise him greatly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

He is to be feared above all other gods

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Fear him above all other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 96:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 96:6

in his presence

"where he is"

Splendor and majesty are in his presence

The psalmist speaks as if splendor and majesty are people who can stand before a king. Alternate translation: "Everyone knows of his splendor and majesty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Strength and beauty are in his sanctuary

The words "strength" and "beauty" are metonyms for the ark of the covenant decrees, which is found in the sanctuary. Alternate translation: "It is his sanctuary that contains the ark of the covenant decrees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 96:7

Ascribe to Yahweh ... ascribe praise to Yahweh for his glory and strength

This can be restated to removed the abstract nouns "praise," "glory," and "strength." See how these words are translated in Psalms 29:1. Alternate translation: "Praise Yahweh ... praise Yahweh because he is glorious and strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 96:8

Give to Yahweh the glory that his name deserves

The abstract noun "glory" can be stated as a verb or adjective. See how these words are translated in Psalms 29:2. Alternate translation: "Honor Yahweh just as his name deserves" or "Proclaim that Yahweh is glorious just as his name deserves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

his name deserves

Here "name" refers to the person of God. Alternate translation: "he deserves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his courts

the temple courtyard where the priests sacrificed animals to Yahweh

Psalms 96:9

Bow down to Yahweh

in the splendor of holiness

tremble

to shake because of fear

all the earth

Here "earth" represents the people. Alternate translation: "all the people of the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 96:10

The world also is established

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "He also established the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

it cannot be shaken

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "nothing can shake it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 96:11

Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice

Possible meanings are 1) the heavens and the earth are spoken of as if they have emotions like people. Alternate translation: "Let it be as if the heavens are glad and the earth rejoices" or 2) "the heavens" and "the earth" are metonyms for those who dwell in those places. Alternate translation: "Let those who live in the heavens be glad and let those who live on the earth rejoice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that which fills it shout with joy

The implied information is that this refers to all the creatures living in the sea. They are spoken of as if they should shout with joy like people might do. Alternate translation: "the sea creatures shout joyfully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 96:12

Let the fields rejoice and all that is in them

"Let the fields and all that is in them rejoice." The psalmist speaks as if "the fields" and the animals that live in them have emotions like people. Alternate translation: "Let it be as if the fields themselves and all the animals that live in them are rejoicing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

let all the trees in the forest shout for joy

This speaks about the trees as if they were people who could shout for joy. Alternate translation: "let it be as if all the trees in the forest shout for joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 96:13

He is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world ... and the peoples

The three phrase have similar meanings; the last two phases are used to strengthen the first. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

to judge ... will judge

Another possible meaning is "to rule ... will rule."

He will judge the world with righteousness

Here "the world" is a metonym for all the people in the world. See how these words are translated in Psalms 9:8. Alternate translation: "He will judge all the people of the world righteously" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the peoples with his faithfulness

The words "he will judge" are understood. Alternate translation: "he will judge the peoples with his faithfulness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

with his faithfulness

The can be restated to remove the abstract noun "faithfulness." Possible meanings are 1) Alternate translation: "fairly, according to what he knows is true" or 2) Alternate translation: "using the same standard for all people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 97

Psalms 97:intro-0

Psalm 097 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 97 is one of six worship psalms (Psalms 95-100)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's authority

All people who worship idols are disgraced because Yahweh rules over all the world.

Psalms 97:1

General Information:

let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad

The earth and the coastlands are said to have emotions like people. Alternate translation: "Rejoice and be glad every person on the earth and near the seas" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

coastlands

Possible meanings are 1) "lands near the seas" or 2) "islands."

Psalms 97:2

Clouds and darkness surround him

"We cannot see him; it is as if he were sitting in the dark with clouds all around him"

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne

The word "throne" is a metonym for the deeds and words of the one who sits on it. The psalmist speaks as if righteousness and justice were physical objects that made the throne secure. Alternate translation: "He is righteous and just in everything he does" or "He is able to rule because he rules righteously and justly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the foundation of his throne

Here "the foundation of his throne" refers to how Yahweh rules his kingdom. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 97:3

Fire goes before him

The psalmist speaks as if fire were a person walking before King Yahweh and telling people that the king was coming. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

consumes his adversaries

"burns up his enemies"

Psalms 97:4

the earth sees and trembles

The writer speaks of the earth as if it were a person who sees what Yahweh does and trembles in fear. Alternate translation: "like a person, the earth sees and trembles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

trembles

shakes with fear

Psalms 97:5

The mountains melt like wax before Yahweh

The writer speaks of the mountains crumbling before Yahweh as if they were wax that was exposed to a fire. Alternate translation: "The mountains are unable to stand as Yahweh comes near" or "The mountains crumble in Yahweh's presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 97:6

The skies declare his justice

Possible meanings are 1) the psalmist speaks as if the skies are Yahweh's messengers who declare that Yahweh is just. Alternate translation: "Everyone can see that God is just, the same way that everyone can see the skies" or 2) the skies refer to the beings that live in the heavens. Alternate translation: "All those who live in heaven declare that Yahweh is just" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 97:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 97:8

Zion heard ... the towns of Judah

This refers to the people who live in these lands. Alternate translation: "The people of Zion heard ... the people of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 97:9

are most high above all

The psalmist speaks as if those who were strong enough to rule were the physically higher than others. Alternate translation: "rule over all the people who live on" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

You are exalted far

The psalmist speaks as if those who were strong enough to rule were the physically higher than others. Alternate translation: "You are high, far" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 97:10

he takes them out of the hand of the wicked

Here the word "hand" represents power. Yahweh rescuing people from the power of wicked people is spoken of as if he took them out of their hands. Alternate translation: "he rescues them from the power of the wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 97:11

Light is sown for ... and gladness for

These two phrases have similar meanings and are used together for emphasis. Alternate translation: "Yahweh sows light for those who do right, and he sows gladness for those with honest hearts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Light is sown for the righteous

The word "sown" is a metaphor for actions with future results. "Light" is a metaphor for good things. Alternate translation: "Yahweh plans for good things to happen to the righteous in the future" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the righteous

The adjective "righteous" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

gladness for those with honest hearts

The words "is sown" are understood. The word "sown" is a metaphor for actions with future results. The abstract noun "gladness" can be stated as "happy." Alternate translation: "gladness is sown for those with honest hearts" or "Yahweh plans for people with honest hearts to be happy in the future" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

those with honest hearts

The heart is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "honest people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 97:12

General Information:

This verse has a command followed by the reason for the command. If your language requires the reason to precede the command: "Because of what Yahweh has done for you, you righteous people, be glad and give thanks when you remember his holiness."

Be glad in Yahweh

This idiom means to be glad because of what Yahweh has done. Alternate translation: "Be glad because of what Yahweh has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

when you remember his holiness

Possible meanings are 1) "when you remember how holy he is" or 2) "to his holy name," a metonym for "to him." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 98

Psalms 98:intro-0

Psalm 098 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 98 is one of six worship psalms (Psalms 95-100).

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

Everyone and every thing should sing praises to Yahweh because he is worthy of all praise.

Psalms 98:1

General Information:

a new song

a song no one has ever sung before. See how this is translated in Psalms 96:1.

his right hand and his holy arm have

The words "right hand" and "holy arm" refer to Yahweh's strength. Together they emphasize how great his strength is. Alternate translation: "his very great power has" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

right hand

the more powerful and skilled hand

holy arm

Here "arm" is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "the power that is his alone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

have given him victory

This can be restated to remove the abstract noun "victory." Alternate translation: "have enabled him to be victorious over his enemies" or "has enabled him to defeat his enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 98:2

made known his salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be translated using the verb "save." Alternate translation: "showed people that he saves his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

showed his justice to all the nations

The abstract noun "justice" can be translated using the adjective "just." The word "nations" is a metonym for "the people who live in all the nations." Alternate translation: "showed the people who live in all the nations that he is just" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 98:3

He calls to mind his steadfast love and faithfulness for the house of Israel

See how the idiom "call to mind" is translated in Psalms 20:3. The abstract nouns "love" and "faithfulness" can be expressed with the verb "love" and the adjective "faithful." Alternate translation: "He remembers that he always loves and is faithful to the house of Israel (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

all the ends of the earth

This is a metonym for the people of the earth. Alternate translation: "people from all over the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will see the victory of our God

The abstract noun "victory" can be translated using the verb "defeat." Alternate translation: "will see our God defeat his enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 98:4

all the earth

This is a metonym for the people of the earth. Alternate translation: "all people in the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

burst into song

"suddenly begin singing happily"

sing for joy

"sing because you are happy"

sing praises

"sing praises to God"

Psalms 98:5

melodious

delightful or pleasing musical sound

Psalms 98:6

the horn

an animal horn used as a musical instrument

make a joyful noise

"raise a shout." See how "shout" is translated in Psalms 47:1.

Psalms 98:7

Let the sea shout and everything in it

The psalmist speaks as if the sea were a person who could shout to God. Alternate translation: "Let it be as if the sea and everything in it were shouting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the world and those who live in it

The psalmist speaks as if the world were a person. Alternate translation: "and let it be as if the world and those who live in it were shouting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the world

This is a metonym for the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: "the people in the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 98:8

Let the rivers clap their hands, and let the mountains shout for joy

The psalmist speaks as if the rivers and mountains were people who could clap and shout. Alternate translation: "Let it be as though the rivers are clapping their hands and mountains were shouting for joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 98:9

the nations with fairness

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "he will judge the nations with fairness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the nations

This is a metonym for "the people who live in the nations." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

with fairness

"honestly" or "using the same standard for everyone"

Psalms 99

Psalms 99:intro-0

Psalm 099 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 99 is one of six worship psalms (Psalms 95-100).

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's justice

God is just and fair. Moses, Aaron and Samuel each prayed to him and obeyed him and he answered their prayers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Psalms 99:1

General Information:

the nations

This refers to the people of all nations. Alternate translation: "the people of all nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

tremble

shake with fear

He sits enthroned above the cherubim

You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were Yahweh's footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. Alternate translation: "He sits on his throne above the cherubim on the ark of the covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

quakes

shakes

Psalms 99:2

Yahweh is great in Zion; he is exalted above all the nations

"Not only is Yahweh great in Zion, he is exalted above all the nations" or "Not only does Yahweh rule in Zion, he rules over all the nations"

he is exalted above all the nations

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people in all the nations exalt him" or "people in all nations praise him greatly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 99:3

Let them praise your great and awesome name

Here the author shifts from speaking about God, to speaking to God. After this phrase though, he shifts back to speaking about God.

Psalms 99:4

he loves justice

The abstract noun "justice" can be translated using the phrase "what is just." Alternate translation: "he loves doing what is just" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

You have established fairness

The abstract noun "fairness" is a metonym for the laws that are fair. Alternate translation: "The laws you have established are fair" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 99:5

worship at his footstool

Here the word "footstool" likely refers to the ark of the covenant, which the biblical writers often spoke of as if it were Yahweh's footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. The translation can make explicit that the people are to worship Yahweh. Alternate translation: "worship Yahweh at his footstool" or "worship Yahweh before his throne in the temple" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 99:6

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 99:7

solemn

important, given seriously

Psalms 99:8

You answered them

"You answered your people"

Psalms 99:9

his holy hill

"Mount Zion"

Psalms 100

Psalms 100:intro-0

Psalm 100 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 100 is the last of six worship psalms (Psalms 95-100).

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's care for his creation

God made mankind and takes good care of people.

Psalms 100:1

General Information:

Shout joyfully to Yahweh

"Raise a shout to Yahweh." See how "shout" is translated in Psalms 47:1.

all the earth

This refers to all the people of the earth. Alternate translation: "everyone on the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 100:2

come before his presence

The psalmist speaks as if he is telling the readers to go into the throne room of a king. Alternate translation: "go to where he is with joyful singing" or "he can hear you, so sing joyfully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 100:3

the sheep of his pasture

God's people are like his sheep. Alternate translation: "the people God provides for and protects" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

pasture

a grassy area for feeding animals

Psalms 100:4

with thanksgiving

"while thanking him" or "while giving thanks to him"

bless his name

Psalms 100:5

his covenant faithfulness endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "he is faithful to his covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

his truthfulness through all generations

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. The abstract noun "truthfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "his truthfulness endures through all generations" or "he is truthful through all generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

through all generations

"generation after generation." See how this is translated in Psalms 89:4.

Psalms 101

Psalms 101:intro-0

Psalm 101 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 101 is a psalm asking God's help in living as a person should.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Encouragement

The psalmist wanted to encourage all the good people in the land restrain all the evil people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Psalms 101:1

General Information:

I will sing of covenant faithfulness and justice

The abstract nouns "faithfulness" and "justice" can be translated with adjectives. Alternate translation: "I will sing that you are faithful to your covenant and that you are just" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 101:2

I will walk in the way of integrity

Here David speaks about "living" as if it were "walking." Alternate translation: "I will live in a way that is honest and right" or "I will live a life full of integrity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will walk with integrity within my house

Here David speaks about "living" as if it were walking." Also, David speaks of overseeing his house with integrity, as if integrity were a physical object residing in his house. Alternate translation: "I will oversee my house with integrity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 101:3

I will not put wrongdoing before my eyes

This can be restated to remove the abstract noun "wrongdoing." The idiom, "put evil before my eyes," means to approve of it. Alternate translation: "I will not approve of anyone doing anything that is wrong in my presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

it will not cling to me

David describes "evil" as if it were something unable to cling to him. This means that he would avoid evil things and people doing evil things. Alternate translation: "I will completely avoid evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

cling

hold on to something or someone very tightly

Psalms 101:4

to evil

"to anything that is evil"

Psalms 101:5

a proud demeanor and an arrogant attitude

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how prideful such people are. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

a proud demeanor

"a proud outward appearance." This refers to a person being so proud that anyone who looks at him can see how proud he is.

Psalms 101:6

I will look to the faithful of the land to sit at my side

This means that David would allow those people to be around him and live with him. Alternate translation: "I will allow the faithful of the land to live with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the faithful

This refers to the people who are faithful to God. Alternate translation: "the faithful people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

walk in the way of integrity

Here David speaks about "living" as if it were "walking." Alternate translation: "live in a way that is honest and right" or "live lives full of integrity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 101:7

Deceitful people will not ... liars will not

These two phrases have the same idea and are used together to emphasize how David will not tolerate deceitful people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

liars will not be welcome

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will not welcome liars" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

before my eyes

Here "my eyes" refers to David himself. Alternate translation: "before me" or "in my presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 101:8

Morning by morning

"Every day"

the wicked

This refers to wicked people. Alternate translation: "the wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

from the city of Yahweh

David is referring to the city that he is in as "the city of Yahweh." This can be made clear. Alternate translation: "from this city, which is Yahweh's city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 102

Psalms 102:intro-0

Psalm 102 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 102 is a psalm of deliverance from sickness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Salvation

The author does not want to die young. He also wants to see Jerusalem saved. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 102:1

General Information:

the afflicted

This refers to a man who is afflicted. Alternate translation: "the afflicted man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 102:2

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Psalms 102:3

my days pass away like smoke

Here "my days" refers to the author's life and the idea of "smoke" is something that quickly disappears. Alternate translation: "my life passes away quickly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

my bones burn like fire

Here the author refers to his "body" as his "bones." Alternate translation: "my body feels like it is burning" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 102:4

My heart is crushed

Here the author refers to himself as his "heart." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I am in despair" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I am like grass that has withered

This is another way to describe his despair. Alternate translation: "I feel like I am drying up like withered grass" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 102:5

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Psalms 102:6

I am like a pelican of the wilderness

He compares his loneliness to that of a pelican, which is often seem alone instead of with other birds. Alternate translation: "I am lonely and despised like a pelican in the wilderness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

a pelican

a large fish-eating bird

I have become like an owl in the ruins

The author continues to describe loneliness by comparing himself to an owl in abandoned ruins. Alternate translation: "I have become alone like an owl in abandoned ruins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

an owl

This is a bird that is awake at night. Alternate translation: "a night bird"

Psalms 102:7

I lie awake like a solitary bird

The writer compares himself to a bird to emphasize his feeling of loneliness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 102:8

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Psalms 102:9

I eat ashes like bread

David would have sat in ashes as an act of mourning, therefore ashes would have fallen on his food. Alternate translation: "I eat ashes like I eat bread" or "As I mourn, ashes fall on the bread that I eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

mix my drink with tears

David did not purposefully mix his drink with tears; rather his tear would have fallen into his cup while he mourned and wept. Alternate translation: "my tears fall into the cup that I drink" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 102:10

you have lifted me up to throw me down

God has not literally lifted and thrown David's body to the ground; rather David says this to describe what he is feeling and experiencing. Alternate translation: "it is like you have lifted me up to throw me down" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 102:11

My days are like a shadow that fades

David compares his time left to live on earth to a fading shadow. Alternate translation: "My time to remain alive is short like an evening shadow that will soon be gone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I have withered like grass

As David's body becomes weak and he is nearing the end of his life, he compares himself to withering grass. Alternate translation: "my body has become weak like withered grass" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

withered

dry and wrinkled

Psalms 102:12

your fame is for all generations

"you will be recognized for all generations to come"

fame

being known by many people

Psalms 102:13

have mercy on Zion

Here "Zion" refers to the people who live in Zion. Alternate translation: "have mercy on the people of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

upon her

The word "her" refers to Zion.

Psalms 102:14

hold her stones dear

The "stones" refer to the stones that were part of the city walls before they were destroyed. Alternate translation: "still love the stones that were formerly in the city walls" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 102:15

your name

Here "your name" refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will honor your glory

The people will honor Yahweh because of his glory. Here Yahweh is referred to by his glory. Alternate translation: "will honor you because you are glorious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 102:16

will appear in his glory

"will be seen as glorious" or "people will see his glory"

Psalms 102:17

the destitute

This refers to destitute people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

he will not reject their prayer

"Yahweh will accept their prayers"

Psalms 102:18

This will be written for future generations

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will write this for future generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 102:19

For he has looked down from the holy heights; from heaven Yahweh has viewed

These two phrases have similar meaning and are used together for emphasize how God looks down from heaven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the holy heights

"his holy place high above the earth"

Psalms 102:20

those who were condemned to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those whom the authorities had sentenced to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 102:21

proclaim the name of Yahweh in Zion and his praise in Jerusalem

These two phrases have the same meaning and emphasize the idea of praising the name of Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 102:22

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Psalms 102:23

taken away my strength

David describes God causing him to become weak as if his strength were a physical item that could be taken away from him. Alternate translation: "has caused me to become weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my days

The word "days" here refers to his life. Alternate translation: "my life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 102:24

do not take me away

David is asking God to not let him die. Alternate translation: "do not take me away from the earth" or "do not let me die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you are here throughout all generations

"you are present throughout all generations"

Psalms 102:25

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Psalms 102:26

they will all grow old

The word "they" refers to "the earth" and "the heavens."

Psalms 102:27

your years will have no end

"you will live forever"

Psalms 102:28

will live on

"will continue to live"

live in your presence

Here David describes the descendants being protected by Yahweh as being in his presence. Alternate translation: "be protected as they live in your presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 103

Psalms 103:intro-0

Psalm 103 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 103 is the first in a series of five psalms of praise to God. (Psalm 103-107)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's grace

God is good to us by forgiving our sins and not punishing us as much as we deserve. His loving-kindness goes on from generation to generation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/grace.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/forgive.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Psalms 103:1

General Information:

I give praise to Yahweh with all my life, and with all that is within me, I give praise to his holy name

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how much he will praise Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I will praise Yahweh with all that I am" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

give praise to his holy name

This refers to praising Yahweh's name as Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

all that is within me

"all of me" or "all that I am." David uses this phrase to refer to himself and to emphasize his devotion to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 103:2

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Psalms 103:3

your ... you

David is speaking to himself, so he uses the words "your" and "you" to refer to himself. Many translations express this with "my" and "me" as the UDB does.

Psalms 103:4

your ... you

David is speaking to himself, so he uses the words "your" and "you" to refer to himself. Many translations express this with "my" and "me," as the UDB does.

He redeems your life from destruction

This means that Yahweh keeps him alive. Alternate translation: "He saves me from dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he crowns you with covenant faithfulness and acts of tender mercy

Here blessing someone and treating them with great honor is described as if it were placing a crown on that person's head. The abstract nouns "faithfulness" and "mercy" can be translated with adverbs. Alternate translation: "he blesses you by acting faithfully and mercifully towards you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 103:5

He satisfies your life with good things

The phrase "your life" refers to "you," but it emphasizes that Yahweh gives blessings throughout life. Alternate translation: "He satisfies you with good things through your life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your youth is renewed like the eagle

Having your "youth renewed" means to feel young again. Here David compares this feeling of youth to the swiftness and strength of an eagle. Alternate translation: "you feel young and are strong like an eagle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

your youth

The word "youth" refers to the strength one had as a young adult. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 103:6

does acts of justice for

"causes justice to happen to"

all who are oppressed

Who is doing the oppressing can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "all who are oppressed by men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 103:7

his deeds to the descendants of Israel

The words "he made known" are understood from the previous phrase. They may be repeated here. Alternate translation: "he made known his deeds to the descendants of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 103:8

abounding in steadfast love

The abstract noun "love" can be restated with the verb "love." Alternate translation: "he always loves his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 103:9

He will not always discipline; he is not always angry

These two phrases have similar meanings. The second one strengthens the thought in the first. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 103:10

He does not deal with us ... or repay us

These two phrases are parallel and emphasize that God does not punish us as we deserve. Alternate translation: "He does not repay us with the punishment we deserve for our sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

deal with us

"punish us"

Psalms 103:11

For as the skies are high ... toward those who honor him

The simile compares the great distance between heaven and earth to the greatness of God's love for his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

so great is his covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "so he is very faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 103:12

As far as the east ... removed the guilt of our sins from us

The distance between east and west is so far that it cannot be measured. In this simile, that distance is being compared to how far God moves our guilt away from us. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 103:13

As a father has compassion ... on those who honor him

Here the author compares a father's compassion for his children to Yahweh's compassion for those who honor him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 103:14

how we are formed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "what our bodies are like" or "how he formed our bodies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

he knows that we are dust

When Yahweh created Adam the first man he created him from dust. Alternate translation: "he remembers that he created us from dust" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 103:15

As for man, his days are like grass

In this simile, the length of man's life is being compared to the short length of time that grass grows before it dies. Alternate translation: "The length of man's life is short like that of grass" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

he flourishes like a flower in a field

In this simile, how man grows over time is compared to how a flower grows. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

flourishes

To "flourish" is to grow well or be healthy.

Psalms 103:16

The wind blows over it, and it disappears ... where it once grew

These phrases continue to talk about flowers and grass. They compare how flowers and grass die to how man dies. Alternate translation: "The wind blows over the flowers and grass and they disappear, and no one can tell where they once grew—it is the same way with man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 103:17

the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh is

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

is from everlasting to everlasting

This means that Yahweh's love continues forever. Alternate translation: "will continue forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

their descendants

"the descendants of those who honor him"

Psalms 103:18

They keep his covenant and remember to obey his instructions

These two phrases have similar meanings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 103:19

Yahweh has established his throne in the heavens

Here Yahweh's reign as king is referred to as his "throne." Alternate translation: "Yahweh has taken his seat in the heavens where he rules as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

has established

"has made"

his kingdom rules

Here Yahweh is referred to by "his kingdom" to emphasize his authority as king. Alternate translation: "he rules" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 103:20

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Psalms 103:21

all his hosts

"all his armies." Here "hosts" refers to the living beings that God created in the heavens. Possible meanings are that they are called hosts 1) because they fight as armies. Alternate translation: "all his angel armies" or 2) because there are so many of them, just as armies have many soldiers. Alternate translation: "all his multitude of angels" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 103:22

in all the places where he reigns

"praise him in all the places where he reigns"

with all my life

This phrase means that he will praise Yahweh wholeheartedly and is used to emphasize his devotion to him. Alternate translation: "with all of me" or "with all my soul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 104

Psalms 104:intro-0

Psalm 104 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 104 is the second in the series of five psalms of praise to God. (Psalm 103-107)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's creation

God has created everything good on earth, in the sky and in the sea.

Psalms 104:1

General Information:

Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. This psalm is a song of praise. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

with all my life

This phrase means that he will praise Yahweh wholeheartedly and is used to emphasize his devotion to him. Alternate translation: "with all of me" or "with all my soul"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you are clothed with splendor and majesty

The words "splendor" and "majesty" have similar meanings and emphasize the greatness of Yahweh's glory. They are described as clothing Yahweh like a garment. Alternate translation: "you have splendor and majesty all around you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 104:2

You cover yourself with light as with a garment

Yahweh is described as being covered with light as if the light were a garment around him. Alternate translation: "You are covered in light" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

you spread out the heavens like a tent curtain

Here God is described as spreading out the heavens like someone spreads out a tent when setting it up. Alternate translation: "you spread out the heavens like someone sets up a tent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 104:3

You lay the beams of your chambers on the clouds

"You build your upper rooms in the heavens." This is referring to his house is so tall that the upper floor extends into the clouds.

you make the clouds your chariot

Here the clouds are described as carrying Yahweh as if they were a chariot. Alternate translation: "you make the clouds carry you like a chariot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you walk on the wings of the wind

Here the blowing of the wind is described as wings on which Yahweh walks. Alternate translation: "you walk upon the wind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 104:4

He makes the winds his messengers

Possible meanings are 1) he causes the wind to be able to carry a message like a messenger, "He makes the winds to be like his messengers" or 2) "He makes his messengers swift like the wind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

flames of fire his servants

Possible meanings are 1) "he causes flames of fire to be like his servants." He causes fire to serve him like a servant would or 2) "he makes his servants to be like flames of fire"and (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

flames of fire his servants

This can be stated with the implied information from the previous line. Alternate translation: "He makes the flames of fire his servants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 104:5

He laid the foundations of the earth

Here the phrase "laid the foundations" means "created." Alternate translation: "He created the whole earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 104:6

You covered the earth with water like a garment

Here the water that covered the earth is being compared to how a large garment is able to completely cover something. Alternate translation: "You completely covered the earth with water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 104:7

the waters retreated

The word "retreated" refers to a person moving backward. Alternate translation: "rushed away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 104:8

The mountains rose and the valleys went down

This tells about how the land changed. Some of the land became mountains and some of it became valleys. Alternate translation: "The mountains grew and the valleys sank"

Psalms 104:9

a boundary for them that they will not cross

Here the psalmist speaks of God causing the waters not to cross the boundary that he created for them as if the waters themselves chose not to cross it. They are described this way to emphasize God's authority over them. Alternate translation: "a boundary for them that they cannot cross" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

boundary

border

Psalms 104:10

streams

small rivers

Psalms 104:11

the wild donkeys quench their thirst

It can be stated clearly that they quench their thirst by drinking the water. Alternate translation: "the wild donkeys drink the water to quench their thirst" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 104:12

riverbanks

the ground at the edges of a river

they sing among the branches

Here David describes birds chirping as if they were singing. Alternate translation: "they chirp among the tree branches" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 104:13

He waters the mountains from his water chambers in the sky

This means that God causes it to rain. The waters are described as residing in chambers in the sky. Alternate translation: "He waters the mountains by causing the rains to fall from the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the fruit of his labor

"the many good things that you create"

Psalms 104:14

and plants for man to cultivate

The words "he makes" and "grow" are understood from the previous phrase, and can be repeated here. Alternate translation: "and he makes the plants grow for man to cultivate" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 104:15

General Information:

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Psalms 104:16

The trees of Yahweh get plenty of rain

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh provides plenty of rain for his trees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 104:17

There the birds make their nests

They makes their nests in the cedars. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "The birds make their nests in the cedars" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

stork

This is a type of bird. Alternate translation: "bird"

Psalms 104:18

hyraxes

I hyrax is a small animal that looks like a large rodent. Alternate translation: "rock badger"

Psalms 104:19

seasons

This word refers to different weather changes through the year. Some places have rainy season and dry season, while others have spring, summer, fall, and winter.

the sun knows its time

Here David describes the sun as if it knows what time of day it is. Alternate translation: "he made the sun to set when it is time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 104:20

You make

"Yahweh, you make." Here the authors switches from speaking about Yahweh to speaking to him.

Psalms 104:21

prey

an animal that is food for another animal

and seek their food from God

"but they rely on God to provide their food"

Psalms 104:22

retreat

go back to their dens

dens

the homes of some mammals and small animals

Psalms 104:23

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Psalms 104:24

overflows with your works

Here David describes the amount of things that Yahweh had created as if they were a liquid overflowing out of a container. Alternate translation: "is filled with your work" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 104:25

deep and wide

"it is very deep and very wide." The depth and width of the sea emphasizes how large it is. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

teeming with innumerable creatures

"having in them more creatures than anyone could count"

innumerable

more than anyone can count

both small and great

This means creatures of all sizes. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 104:26

The ships travel there

"The ships travel on the sea"

Psalms 104:27

All these

"All these creatures"

give them their food on time

"give them their food when they need it"

Psalms 104:28

When you give to them, they gather

It may be helpful to state that it is food that is given. Alternate translation: "When you give food to them, they gather it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

gather

collect

when you open your hand

This describes Yahweh as opening his hand to give food to the creatures. Alternate translation: "when you open your hand to feed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 104:29

hide your face

This means that Yahweh does not look at them or pay attention to them. Alternate translation: "when you do not look upon them" or "when you ignore them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

return to dust

This means that their bodies decay and are and become soil again. Alternate translation: "their bodies decay and return to the ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 104:30

When you send out your Spirit

This refers to his Spirit being sent to give life to creatures. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

they are created

It is Yahweh's spirit that created them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you renew the countryside

"you cause the land to be full of new life"

Psalms 104:31

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Psalms 104:32

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Psalms 104:33

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Psalms 104:34

my thoughts be sweet

He is comparing his thoughts to something that tastes sweet. Alternate translation: "my thoughts be pleasing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 104:35

vanish

disappear

let the wicked be no more

The phrase "the wicked" refers to wicked people. Alternate translation: "may wicked people disappear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 105

Psalms 105:intro-0

Psalm 105 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 105 is the third in a series of five psalms of praise to God. (Psalm 103-107)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

God protected Abraham and Jacob. He worked throughout Israel's history to bring Israel into the Promised Land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Psalms 105:1

General Information:

call on his name

Here "name" represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: "call on him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the nations

This refers to the people in the nations. Alternate translation: "the people of the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 105:2

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Psalms 105:3

Boast in his holy name

Here "name" represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: "Boast in Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

let the heart of those who seek Yahweh rejoice

Here "the heart" represents the person who seeks Yahweh. Alternate translation: "let the people who seek Yahweh rejoice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 105:4

Seek Yahweh and his strength

To "seek Yahweh's strength" means to ask him to strengthen you. Alternate translation: "Seek Yahweh and ask him to give you his strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 105:5

Recall

remember and think about

his miracles and

The word "recall" is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "recall his miracles and" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the decrees from his mouth

Here "mouth" refers to the things that he spoke. Alternate translation: "the decrees that he has spoken" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 105:6

you descendants of Abraham ... you people of Jacob

The author is speaking to the Israelites, calling them these names.

Abraham his servant

"Abraham, Yahweh's servant"

Psalms 105:7

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Psalms 105:8

He keeps in mind ... the word that he commanded

These two phrases share similar meanings and are used together for emphasis. The word "word" refers to the covenant. Alternate translation: "He keeps in mind his covenant forever, the promise he made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

keeps in mind

This means to remember and think about something. Alternate translation: "remembers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

a thousand generations

"1,000 generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Psalms 105:9

He calls to mind

The phrase "call to mind" means to remember something. Alternate translation: "he remembers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the covenant that he made with Abraham ... his oath to Isaac

Both of these phrases "the covenant" and "the oath" refer to the same promise that Yahweh made to his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

his oath to Isaac

The words "that he made" are undestood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated. Alternate translation: "his oath that he made to Isaac" or "his oath that he gave to Isaac" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 105:10

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Psalms 105:11

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Psalms 105:12

Connecting Statement:

The psalmist is writing about Israel.

when they were only few in number

The word "they" refers to the Israelites.

were strangers in the land

It is implied that "the land" refers to Canaan. Alternate translation: "were foreigners in the land of Canaan" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 105:13

They went from

"They continued to wander"

from nation to nation and from one kingdom to another

These two phrases have similar meanings and are used together for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 105:14

Connecting Statement:

The psalmist is writing about Israel.

for their sakes

"for their own well-being." This is referring to Israel.

Psalms 105:15

Do not touch my anointed ones

Here "touch" means to harm, it's an exaggeration Yahweh used to strengthen his warning to not harm his people. Alternate translation: "Do not harm the people I have anointed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 105:16

He called for

"He sent." This means that caused a famine to happen in the land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the whole supply of bread

Here "bread" refers to food in general. Alternate translation: "the whole supply of food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 105:17

He sent a man ahead of them; Joseph

It may be helpful to state that he sent him ahead of them to Egypt. Alternate translation: "He sent a man ahead of them to Egypt; he sent Joseph who" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Joseph was sold as a servant

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Joseph's brothers sold him as a slave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 105:18

shackles

metal restraints used to fasten a prisoner's wrists or ankles together

His feet were bound by shackles; on his neck was put an iron collar

These statements can be restated as active. Alternate translation: "The Egyptians bound his feet in shackles; they put an iron collar around his neck. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 105:19

The word of Yahweh tested him

"The message of Yahweh tested him"

Psalms 105:20

The king sent servants to release him; the ruler of the people set him free

These two phrases have basically the same meaning and are used together to emphasize that the king set Joseph free. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 105:21

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Psalms 105:22

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Psalms 105:23

Then Israel came into Egypt

Here "Israel" refers to Jacob. Jacob also brought his family with him. Alternate translation: "Then Israel and his family came into Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 105:24

Yahweh made his people fruitful

The writer speaks of the increase of Israel as if they were a plant that produced a lot of fruit. "God increased the number of his people greatly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 105:25

to hate his people, to mistreat his servants

"to hate his people and to mistreat his servants"

Psalms 105:26

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Psalms 105:27

They performed his signs among the Egyptians ... his wonders in the land of Ham

These two phrases have basically the same meaning. Alternate translation: "Moses and Aaron performed God's miracles in Egypt among the descendants of Ham" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

his wonders in the land of Ham

The words "they performed" are understood fromt the previous phrase. They may be repeated here. Alternate translation: "and they performed his wonders in the land of Ham" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the land of Ham

Ham was an ancestor of the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: "the land of Ham's descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 105:28

made that land dark

"made the sky dark"

Psalms 105:29

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Psalms 105:30

frogs

a small jumping reptile

even in the rooms of their rulers

"they were even in the rooms of their rulers"

Psalms 105:31

Connecting Statement:

The psalmist continues to describe Yahweh's judgment on Egypt.

swarms

large flying groups

gnats

small flying insects like flies but smaller

Psalms 105:32

hail

ice that falls from the sky like rain

Psalms 105:33

He destroyed ... he broke

God caused the hail, rain, and lightning to ruin the vines and trees. Alternate translation: "He caused it to destroy ... and to break" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 105:34

so many locusts

"there were so many locusts"

Psalms 105:35

The locusts ate up all of the vegetation ... They ate up all the crops of the ground

These two phrase have basically the same meaning and are used together for emphasis. Alternate translation: "The insects ate all the plants and all the crops in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 105:36

He killed every firstborn in their land, the firstfruits of all their strength

Here the second phrase about the "firstfruits" is used to describe the "firstborn" in the first phrase. Alternate translation: "He killed every firstborn in their land, which were the firstfruits of all their strength" or "Then Yahweh killed the oldest son in every house of the people of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 105:37

He brought the Israelites out with silver and gold

When the Israelites left Egypt they took silver and gold with them. Alternate translation: "He brought the Isrealites out of Egypt with silver and gold in their possession" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

none of his tribes stumbled on the way

"every one of his tribes was able to make the journey"

Psalms 105:38

Egypt was glad

Here "Egypt" refers to the people who live in Egypt. Alternate translation: The people of Egypt were glad (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 105:39

He spread a cloud for a covering

Here the psalmist describes Yahweh placing a cloud in the sky as if he were spreading out a garment. The cloud was a "covering" to protect them from the sun. Alternate translation: "He placed a cloud in the sky to protect them from the sun and heat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

made a fire to light up the night

Yahweh placed a pillar of fire in the sky to give light during the night. Alternate translation: "placed a fire it the sky to light up the night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 105:40

he brought quail

It may be helpful to make clear that quail are small birds Yahweh sent for them to eat. Alternate translation: "Yahweh sent small birds to eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

with bread from heaven

Yahweh caused manna, a type of bread, to fall from the sky. Alternate translation: "with bread that fell from the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 105:41

they flowed

"the waters flowed"

Psalms 105:42

called to mind

This means to remember. Alternate translation: "remembered" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 105:43

He led his people out ... his chosen with shouts of triumph

These two phrases have basically the same meaning and are used together to emphasize that God's people were joyful when he led them out of Egypt. The people were shouting joyfully. Alternate translation: "He led his chosen people out with shouts of joy and triumph" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

his chosen

Here "chosen" refers to Yahweh's chosen people. Alternate translation: "his chosen people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

shouts of triumph

the sound that people make when they are shouting with joy because they have defeated their enemies

Psalms 105:44

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Psalms 105:45

keep his statutes and obey his laws

These two phrases have basically the same meaning and are used together for emphasis. "To keep" his statutes means to obey them. Alternate translation: "obey his laws and statutes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 106

Psalms 106:intro-0

Psalm 106 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 106 is the fourth in a series of five psalms of praise to God. (Psalm 103-107)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Israel's sin

Although Israel continually sinned in the desert, God still took them to the Promised Land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Psalms 106:1

General Information:

for his covenant faithfulness endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "for he remains faithful to his covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 106:2

Who can recount the mighty acts of Yahweh ... deeds?

The author asks this question to praise God and does not expect an answer. Alternate translation: "No one can recount the mighty acts of Yahweh ... deeds." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

praiseworthy deeds

"deeds that are worthy of praise"

Psalms 106:3

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Psalms 106:4

Call me to mind

The phrase "call to mind" means to remember something. Alternate translation: "remember me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 106:5

of your chosen

The word "chosen" refers to Yahweh's chosen people. Alternate translation: "of your chosen people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

rejoice in the gladness ... and glory

These are things that David says he will do, along with "seeing the prosperity of your chosen." The words "I will" may be repeated here. "I will rejoice in the gladness ... and I will glory"

gladness

joy, delight

glory with your inheritance

Here the phrase "your inheritance" refers to the Isrealites, who are Yahweh's chosen people. Here "glory" means "to boast about" something; in this case they are boasting about Yahweh. Alternate translation: "boast of your greatness with your people" or "boast with your people about you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 106:6

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Psalms 106:7

did not appreciate your marvelous deeds

"were not grateful for the marvelous deed you did"

they ignored your many acts of covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "they ignored the many things that you did because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

at the sea ... the Sea of Reeds

These two phrases refer to the same sea. The second is the name of the sea.

Psalms 106:8

Nevertheless, he

"Even though what I have just said is true, he"

for his name's sake

Here "his name" refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "for the sake of his own reputation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 106:9

through the depths, as through a wilderness

Here David compares the way that Yahweh led the Isrealites through the Sea of Reeds to the way people can be led across the dry ground of a wilderness. "The depths" refers the riverbed that appeared after Yahweh parted the waters. Alternate translation: "through the Seas of Reeds on dry ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 106:10

He saved them from the hand ... and he rescued them from the hand

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize that Yahweh saved them from their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the hand of those who hated them

Here "hand" refers to power or control. Alternate translation: "the power of those who hated them" or "the control of those who hated them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 106:11

covered their adversaries

This is a polite way to talk about them drowning. Alternate translation: "drowned their enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 106:12

Then they believed his words

Here the word "they" refers to "their ancestors" and the word "his" refers to "Yahweh."

Psalms 106:13

they did not wait for his instructions

It is implied that they did things without waiting to find out what Yahweh wanted them to go. Alternate translation: "they did things without first waiting for Yahweh's instructions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 106:14

insatiable cravings

"cravings that could not be satisfied"

they challenged God

"They rebelled against God"

Psalms 106:15

but he sent a horrible disease

Here David speaks about Yahweh causing the people to be afflicted by a disease as if Yahweh sent a disease to them in the same way that someone sends a person or a messenger. Alternate translation: "but he caused them to suffer from a horrible disease" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a horrible disease

a disease that caused people to slowly become weak and caused some of them to die

Psalms 106:16

In the camp

This refers to the Israelites' camp in the wilderness. Alternate translation: "In the camp in the wilderness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 106:17

The earth opened and swallowed up

Here how the ground opens up and buries the people is being compared to how a creature swallows something. Alternate translation: "The earth opened and buried" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Dathan

This was an official who rebelled against Moses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

covered the followers of Abiram

The followers of Abiram were also buried when the earth opened and buried Dathan. Alternate translation: "it also covered the followers of Abiram" or "it also buried the followers of Abiram" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Abiram

This was an official who rebelled against Moses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 106:18

Fire broke out among them; the fire consumed the wicked

These two phrases mean the same things and are written together to emphasize how the wicked people were killed by the fire. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 106:19

They made a calf at Horeb and worshiped a cast metal figure

This information can be reordered so that it is clear that the calf was the cast metal figure. Alternate translation: "At Horeb, they made a cast metal figure of a calf and worshiped it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 106:20

They traded the glory of God for the image of a bull

This means that instead of worshiping God they worshiped the image of the bull. Alternate translation: "They traded worshiping the glory of God to worship the image of a bull" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the glory of God

Here God is referred to by his glory. Alternate translation: "their glorious God" or "God who is glorious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 106:21

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Psalms 106:22

the land of Ham

This refers to the land where Ham's descendants lived. Alternate translation: "the land where Ham's descendant live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-possession/01.md]])

mighty acts

"awesome things"

Psalms 106:23

stood in the breach before him, to turn away his anger from destroying them

Here David speaks about Moses persuading Yahweh not to destroy the Israelites as intervening with him in the breach. Alternate translation: "stood between Yahweh and the Israelites and begged Yahweh to not destroy them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 106:24

his promise

This refers to Yahweh's promise that he would allow them to take the land of Canaan as their possession.

Psalms 106:25

grumbled

complained

Psalms 106:26

raised his hand

The word "his" refers to Yahweh. Also, it was custom to raise a hand when swearing an oath.

Psalms 106:27

scatter their descendants ... in foreign lands

These two phrases have basically the same meaning and are used together for emphasis. Alternate translation: "and that he would make their descendants live in foreign lands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

scatter

This means to disperse or spread out something.

Psalms 106:28

the sacrifices offered to the dead

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the sacrifices that they offered to the dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to the dead

"The dead" refers to the idols and gods that the Israelites were worshiping. Alternate translation: "to gods who are dead" or "to lifeless gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 106:29

a plague broke out

"a plague spread"

provoked him to anger

"angered him"

Psalms 106:30

Then Phinehas rose to intervene

Phinehas intervened among the people, punishing them for their sin. This can be made clear. Alternate translation: "Then Phinehas rose to intervene among the people because of their sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 106:31

It was counted to him as a righteous deed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People credited it to him as a righteous deed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 106:32

Meribah

This is a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

suffered because of them

Moses suffered because of the peoples' sin. Here the word "them" is a pronoun for the people and a metonym referring to their sin. Alternate translation: "suffered because of their actions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 106:33

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Psalms 106:34

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Psalms 106:35

but they mingled with the nations

Hey David speaks of the people intermarrying with the women from other nations as "mingling" with them. Alternate translation: "but they mixed in marriage with the other nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 106:36

which became a snare to them

The idols became a snare to them.

Psalms 106:37

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Psalms 106:38

They shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and of their daughters

The phrase "shedding blood" is a descriptive euphemism used for "killing." Alternate translation: "They shed innocent blood when they killed their sons and daughters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 106:39

They were defiled by their deeds

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Their deeds defiled them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in their actions they were like prostitutes

Here David compares their unfaithfulness to Yahweh to the unfaithfulness of a prostitute. Alternate translation: "they were as unfaithful to Yahweh as prostitutes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 106:40

So Yahweh was angry with his people ... he despised his own people

"So Yahweh was angry with his people and despised them"

Psalms 106:41

He gave them into the hand of the nations

Here "hand" refers to power or control. Alternate translation: "God allowed the nations to take control of them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

those who hated them

"people who hated them"

Psalms 106:42

they were brought into subjection to their authority

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "their enemies caused them to be subject to their authority" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 106:43

were brought low by their own sin

Here the phrase "brought low" means to be destroyed. Also, this can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "their sin ruined them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 106:44

Nevertheless, he

"Even though what I have just said is true, he." See how you translated this in Psalms 106:8.

their distress

"their affliction" or "their suffering"

Psalms 106:45

called to mind

The phrase "call to mind" means to remember something. Alternate translation: "remembered" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

He ... relented because of his steadfast love

"He ... decided that because he still loved them very much he would not punish them"

Psalms 106:46

their conquerors

"their captors." This refers to the Isrealites' enemies who had taken them captive.

to have pity on them

"to be compassionate on them"

Psalms 106:47

General Information:

Here 106:48 is more than the end of this psalm. It is the closing statement for all of Book 4 of the Psalms, which starts at Psalm 90 and ends with Psalm 106.

to your holy name

Here Yahweh is referred to by his "holy name." Alternate translation: "to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 106:48

May Yahweh, the God of Israel, be praised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May people praise Yahweh the God of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

from everlasting to everlasting

This refers to two extremes and means for all time. See how you translated this in Psalms 41:13. Alternate translation: "for all eternity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 107

Psalms 107:intro-0

Psalm 107 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 107 is the last in a series of five psalms of praise to God (Psalm 103-107).

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

The psalmist praises Yahweh for saving people lost in the desert, in prison, sick, in a storm at sea, homeless and oppressed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/oppress.md]])

Psalms 107:1

General Information:

his covenant faithfulness endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "he remains faithful to his covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 107:2

the redeemed of Yahweh

"The redeemed" refers to the people whom Yahweh has saved. Alternate translation: "those whom Yahweh has saved" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

speak out

This means to tell others about something. Alternate translation: "tell about what Yahweh has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

from the hand of the enemy

Here "hand" refers to power. Alternate translation: "from the power of the enemy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 107:3

from the east ... and from the south

Here the four directions are given to emphasize that he has gathered them from nations in every direction. Alternate translation: "from every direction" or "from every part of the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 107:4

They wandered

"Some people wandered"

on a desert road

"on a road that was in the desert"

in which to live

"that they could live in"

Psalms 107:5

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Psalms 107:6

Then they called out to Yahweh in their trouble

It is implied that they are praying to Yahweh so that he will help them. Alternate translation: "Then they prayed to Yahweh to help them in their trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

their distress

"their difficulties" or "their afflictions"

Psalms 107:7

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Psalms 107:8

Oh that people would praise Yahweh for his covenant faithfulness

Here the word "Oh" is used to convey a strong desire for people to praise Yahweh. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "Let people praise Yahweh because he is faithful to his covenant" or "People should praise Yahweh because he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

for humanity

"for all people"

Psalms 107:9

For he satisfies the longings of those who are thirsty

"For he gives water to those who desire it—to those who are thirsty"

the desires of those who are hungry he fills up with good things

"to those who are very hungry and desire food, he give them good things to eat"

Psalms 107:10

Some sat

It is implied that these are people that Yahweh has rescued. Alternate translation: "Yahweh also rescued people who sat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

in darkness and in gloom

Both "darkness" and "gloom" have basically the same meaning and are used to emphasize how dark the prison was. Alternate translation: "in complete darkness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 107:11

they had rebelled against God's word ... rejected the instruction of the Most High

These phrases have similar meanings and emphasize how much they had rebelled again God, which is why they had been imprisoned. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 107:12

He humbled their hearts through hardship

Here the heart represents a person, but specifically his will. Alternate translation: "He humbled them by allowing them to suffer hardship" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

hardship

Possible meanings are 1) "trouble" or 2) "hard labor."

they stumbled and there was no one to help them up

The word "stumbled" refers to times when these people got into very difficult situations. Alternate translation: "they got into trouble and there was no one to help them out of it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 107:13

Then they called out to Yahweh in their trouble

It is implied that they are praying to Yahweh so that he will help them. See how you translated this in Psalms 107:6. Alternate translation: "Then they prayed to Yahweh to help them in their trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

their distress

"difficulties" or "afflictions." See how you translated this in Psalms 107:6

he brought

Here David describes Yahweh saving them from their distress as if their distress were a physical place that he was bringing them out of. Alternate translation: "he saved" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 107:14

He brought them

"Yahweh brought those in prison"

darkness and gloom

Both "darkness" and "gloom" have basically the same meaning and are used to emphasize how dark the prison was. See how you translated this in Psalms 107:10. Alternate translation: "complete darkness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 107:15

Oh that people would praise Yahweh for his covenant faithfulness

Here the word "Oh" is used to convey a strong desire for people to praise Yahweh. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. See how you translated this in Psalms 107:8. Alternate translation: "Let people praise Yahweh because he is faithful to his covenant" or "People should praise Yahweh because he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 107:16

For he

"because he"

For he has broken the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron

Both of these phrases describe Yahweh freeing his people from prison and are used to emphasize that Yahweh truly freed them. Alternate translation: "He freed his people from prison" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 107:17

They were foolish in their rebellious ways

"They were foolish in the way they rebelled against Yahweh"

and afflicted

"and they suffered." Specifically they were afflicted by becoming sick. Alternate translation: "and they became sick" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 107:18

they came close to the gates of death

Here the act of "dying" is described as a place, "the gates of death" Alternate translation: "they almost died" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 107:19

Then they called out to Yahweh in their trouble

Psalms 107:20

He sent his word and healed them

Here David describes Yahweh speaking as sending his words as if they were a messenger. Possible meanings are 1) "He commanded for them to be healed and they were healed" or 2) "He encouraged them and healed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 107:21

Oh that people would praise Yahweh for his covenant faithfulness

Psalms 107:22

of thanksgiving

"that show that they are thankful"

in singing

"by singing about them"

Psalms 107:23

and do business overseas

They would sail to places and buy and sell things with the people there. Alternate translation: "selling things in cities far away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 107:24

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Psalms 107:25

he commanded and aroused the windstorm that stirs up the seas

"he commanded the wind and caused it become a great windstorm that stirred up the sea"

windstorm

a strong wind, like the wind that accompanies a strong rain storm

that stirs up the seas

Here David describes the winds causing the waves to become high as if the wind was an object fiercely stirring something. Alternate translation: "that caused the waves of the sea to become very high" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 107:26

They reached up to the sky; they went down to the depths

This describes the ships rising and falling with the waves. The extremes of rising to the sky and falling to the depths are an exaggeration to express how horrible the windstorm was and how large the waves were. Alternate translation: "their ships would rise very high on the waves and then they would fall very low between the waves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Their lives melted away in distress

This idiom describes the sailors' great fear. Alternate translation: "The men were terrified and greatly distressed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 107:27

were at their wits' end

The phrase "at their wit's end" means that they did not know what to do. Alternate translation: "and they did not know what to do" or "they had no idea what to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 107:28

Then they called out to Yahweh in their trouble

Then they

The word "they" refers to the sailors.

he brought them

"he guided them"

Psalms 107:29

He calmed the storm

"He made the wind stop"

the waves were stilled

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he made the waves still" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 107:30

their desired harbor

"to the harbor where they wanted to go"

Psalms 107:31

Oh that people would praise Yahweh for his covenant faithfulness

Psalms 107:32

praise him in the council of the elders

"when the elders sit together." The elders sat together to discuss issues in the community and to make decisions for the community.

Psalms 107:33

He turns

"Yahweh makes"

Psalms 107:34

because of the wickedness of its people

"because the people that live there are wicked"

Psalms 107:35

He turns the wilderness into a pool of water and dry land into springs of water

Both of these phrases have similar meaning and emphasize how Yahweh makes water appear in the wilderness. Alternate translation: "He make springs and lakes in land that used to be desert" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 107:36

He settles the hungry there

The word "there" refers to the places where Yahweh made springs and lakes appear. Also, the phrase "the hungry" refers to people who are hungry. Alternate translation: "Yahweh makes people who are hungry live there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 107:37

that yielded a fruitful harvest

"that produced a plentiful harvest"

Psalms 107:38

so they are very numerous

"so that their people are very numerous"

He does not let their livestock decrease in number

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "He keeps their livestock very numerous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 107:39

They

The word "They" refers to the people who were hungry that Yahweh had settled in the land. This sentence describes how they were before Yahweh settled them in the land.

They were diminished and brought low

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Their leaders diminished their number and brought them low" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

were diminished

"became fewer in number"

brought low

This means to be humiliated. Alternate translation: "humiliated" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 107:40

pours contempt on

Here David speaks of Yahweh showing contempt for the leaders as if contempt were a liquid he poured out on them. Alternate translation: "shows contempt for" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the leaders

"the nobles." This refers to the leaders who oppressed the people. Alternate translation: "the leaders who oppressed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

where there are no roads

"where people never go"

Psalms 107:41

But he

"But Yahweh"

the needy

This refers to needy people. Alternate translation: "needy people" or "poor people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

cares for his families like a flock

Here David compares how Yahweh cares for his people to how a shepherd cares for his sheep. Possible meanings are 1) "makes the number of people in their families increase like flocks" or 2) "takes care of them like a shepherd cares for his sheep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 107:42

The upright

This refers to people who live in an upright way. Alternate translation: "Upright people" or "People who do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

all wickedness

Here wicked people are referred to as "wickedness." Alternate translation: "all wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

shuts its mouth

This means to not say anything in response. Alternate translation: "has nothing to say against Yahweh in reply" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 107:43

take note of these things

This means to think about these things. Alternate translation: "think about these things" or "remember these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

meditate on Yahweh's acts of covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "meditate on the things that Yahweh has done that show that he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 108

Psalms 108:intro-0

Psalm 108 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 108 is a psalm of war.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Victory

God promised success to the psalmist, but Yahweh failed to help him conquer the country of Edom. He needed God to give him victory over Edom.

Psalms 108:1

General Information:

My heart is fixed, God

Here David is referring to himself by his heart. Also, the word "fixed" means to trust completely. Alternate translation: "My heart is fixed on you, God" or "I am trusting completely in you, God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I will sing, yes, I will sing praises with all my glory

Here David is represented by his "glory." David refers to himself as having the honor of praising God. Alternate translation: "You honor me by allowing me to sing praises to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 108:2

Wake up, lute and harp

Here David describes playing his instruments as waking them up from sleep. Alternate translation: "I will praise you by playing the lute and the harp" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

I will wake up the dawn

Here David is describing the dawn waking up like a person waking up in the morning. Alternate translation: "I will be praising you when the dawn comes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

dawn

when the sun rises

Psalms 108:3

General Information:

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Psalms 108:4

your covenant faithfulness is great above the heavens; and your trustworthiness reaches to the skies

These two phrases have similar meanings. They speak of the greatness of Yahweh's covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness as if they were objects that were tall enough to reach up to the sky. The abstract nouns "faithfulness" and "trustworthiness" can be translated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "For your covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness are greater than the distance between heaven and earth" or "For you are more faithful to your covenant and more worthy of people trusting you than the sky is higher than the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 108:5

Be exalted, God, above the heavens

may your glory be exalted

Here Yahweh is referred to by his "glory." Alternate translation: "may you be exalted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 108:6

So that those you love may be rescued

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: Because those you love need rescuing" or "Rescue those you love" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

with your right hand

Here Yahweh's "right hand" refers to his power. Alternate translation: "by your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

answer me

Psalms 108:7

General Information:

This verse is the same as Psalms 60:6.

God has spoken in his holiness

Here David describes God speaking something because he is holy as speaking "in his holiness," as if his holiness were something that he was physically inside of. Alternate translation: "God, because he is holy, has said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will divide Shechem and apportion out the Valley of Succoth

Here God is speaking about dividing the land of Shechem and the Valley of Succoth.

apportion

to divide into portions

Psalms 108:8

General Information:

This verse is the same as Psalms 60:7.

Ephraim also is my helmet

God speaks of the tribe of Ephraim as if it were his army. The helmet symbolizes equipment for war. Alternate translation: "Ephraim is like a helmet I have chosen" or "The tribe of Ephraim is my army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

helmet

a hard hat that soldiers wear to protect their heads from injury

Judah is my scepter

God chose men from the tribe of Judah to be the kings of his people, and he speaks of that tribe as if it were his scepter. Alternate translation: "The tribe of Judah is like my scepter" or "Judah is the tribe through whom I rule my people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 108:9

General Information:

This verse is the same as Psalms 60:8.

Moab is my washbasin

over Edom I will throw my shoe

Psalms 108:10

General Information:

This verse is the same as Psalms 60:9.

Psalms 108:11

General Information:

This verse is almost the same as Psalms 60:10.

God, have you not rejected us?

The psalmist uses this question to express his sadness that it seems that God has rejected them. Alternate translation: "It seems like you have rejected us!" or "God, you seem to have abandoned us!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

You do not go into battle with our army

Psalms 108:12

General Information:

This verse is the same as Psalms 60:11.

is futile

"is worthless"

Psalms 108:13

General Information:

This verse is the same as Psalms 60:12.

will triumph

"will defeat our enemies"

he will trample down our enemies

The psalmist speaks of God helping their army defeat their enemies as if God were to trample down the enemies. Alternate translation: "he will enable us to trample down our enemies" or "he will make us able to defeat our enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 109

Psalms 109:intro-0

Psalm 109 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 109 is a psalm of vengeance against an enemy who has lied about him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/avenge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Enemies destroyed

This enemy lied about the psalmist. So he asked God to completely destroy his enemy and his enemy's family.

Psalms 109:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

Psalms 109:2

For the wicked and deceitful

The words "wicked" and "deceitful" refer to people. They have similar meanings and emphasize how bad these people are. Alternate translation: "For wicked and deceitful men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 109:3

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 109:4

In return for my love

"Although I loved them"

my love

"my love for them"

they accuse me

The word "they" refers to the people who are wicked and deceitful. You may need to make explicit that those who accuse the psalmist do so falsely. Alternate translation: "they accuse me falsely" or "they slander me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 109:5

General Information:

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Psalms 109:6

Appoint a wicked man ... appoint an accuser

These two phrases are parallel and the phrases "a wicked man" and "an accuser" refer to the same person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

at his right hand

"at my enemy's right hand"

Psalms 109:7

When he is judged, may he be found guilty

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "When he is on trial, may the judge find him guilty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

may his prayer be considered sinful

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "consider his prayer sinful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 109:8

May his days be few

The phrase "his days" refers to the length of his life. Alternate translation: "May he not live a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

his office

"his position of authority"

Psalms 109:9

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 109:10

handouts

food or money given to beggars

their ruined home

"their destroyed homes"

Psalms 109:11

the creditor

someone who lends money to another person but expects that the person will pay the money back

plunder

steal by force

Psalms 109:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 109:13

May his descendants be cut off; may their name be blotted out

These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize his descendants being destroyed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

May his descendants be cut off

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Cause his descendants to be cut off" or "Cause his descendants to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

may their name be blotted out in the next generation

Here the idea of there being no one to carry on the family name is spoke of as "their name being blotted out." Alternate translation: "may there be no one to carry on his name" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 109:14

May his ancestors' sins be mentioned to Yahweh

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May you remember the sins of his ancestors, Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

may the sin of his mother not be forgotten

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May you not forget the sins that his mother committed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 109:15

May their guilt always be before Yahweh

Here David speaks about Yahweh thinking about their guilt as if their guilt is something physically present before him. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh continually think about their sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

may Yahweh cut off their memory from the earth

David uses the word "earth" to refer to all the people that live on the earth. Also, the phrase "their memory" refers to people remembering them after they have died. Alternate translation: "may Yahweh make it so that no one on earth remembers them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 109:16

this man never bothered to show any covenant faithfulness

This refers to him showing covenant faithfulness to people. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "this man never bothered to show any covenant faithfulness to people" or "this man never did anything to show that he was faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the oppressed, the needy

This refers to oppressed and needy people. Alternate translation: "oppressed people, needy people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the disheartened

This refers to people who are disheartened. Alternate translation: "disheartened people" or "people who have lost hope" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

to death

"until they died." This means that he harassed them until they died.

Psalms 109:17

may it come back upon him

"may his curses come upon him"

Psalms 109:18

He clothed himself with cursing as his garment

David speaks of the wicked person's behavior as if it were his clothing. Alternate translation: "He cursed other people as often as he wore clothing" or "He cursed people all the time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as his garment

"as if they were his clothing"

his curse came into his inner being like water, like oil into his bones

Possible meanings are: 1) He spoke curses so often that they became a part of his identity. "the curses that he speaks are part of who he is" or 2) the curse that he spoke happened to him. "his whole being was cursed by the curse he spoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

like water

This refers to how a person drinks water. Alternate translation: "like water a person drinks" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

like oil into his bones

This refers to how oil soaks into bones when rubbed on the skin. Alternate translation: "like olive oil soaks into a person's bones when it is rubbed on his skin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 109:19

May his curses be to him like the clothes he wears to cover himself

People wore their clothes everyday. David speaks of a wicked person always being cursed as if his curses always covered him as his clothing does. Alternate translation: "Let his curses be on him every day like the garment he wears" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like the belt he always wears

The words "may his curses be to him" are understood from the previous phrase. They may be repeated here. Alternate translation: "may his curses be to him like the belt he always wears" or "and let his curses always be on him like the belt he always wears" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 109:20

May this be the reward

"May these curses be the reward"

Psalms 109:21

deal kindly with me

This is a request for Yahweh to treat him kindly. Alternate translation: "treat me kindly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your name's sake

"the sake of your reputation"

Because your covenant faithfulness is good

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "Because you are good and are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 109:22

oppressed and needy

These two words have similar meanings and emphasize that he is unable to help himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

my heart is wounded within me

Here David speaks of being in great despair as his heart being wounded. Alternate translation: "I am full of grief and despair" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 109:23

I am fading away like the shadow ... like a locust

David feels like he is going to die soon and describes this feeling by comparing himself to a fading shadow and to how the wind blows away locust. Alternate translation: "I feel like I am about to die, like an evening shadow that will soon disappear, like a locust is easily blown away by the wind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 109:24

My knees are weak

This means that he is weak and it is difficult for him to stand. Alternate translation: "I have difficulty standing" or "My body is weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

from fasting

"because I am not eating any food"

I am turning to skin and bones

This means that he has lost a lot of weight. Alternate translation: "my body has become very thin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 109:25

I am disdained by my accusers

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "My accusers ridicule me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

shake their heads

This is an act of disapproval.

Psalms 109:26

save me by your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "save me because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 109:27

May they know

The word "they" refers to David's accusers and the people who say bad things about him.

have done this

"have saved me"

Psalms 109:28

Though they curse me

The word "they" refers to the people who accuse David and say bad things about him.

may they be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "may they be ashamed" or "let them be ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

but may your servant rejoice

"but may I, your servant, rejoice" or "I am your servant, let me rejoice." David uses the phrase "your servant" to refer to himself.

Psalms 109:29

May my adversaries be clothed ... may they wear

These two phrase have them same meaning and are used together for emphasize how greatly he wishes for them to be ashamed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

be clothed with shame

Here David speaks of them being ashamed as if were clothing they wore. Alternate translation: "be very ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

may they wear their shame like a robe

David speaks of them being ashamed as if it were a robe that they wore. Alternate translation: "may their shame cover them just like their robe is wrapped around them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 109:30

With my mouth I give

This means that he will speak. Alternate translation: "I will speak and give" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 109:31

will stand at the right hand of the one who is needy

This means that he will help and defend the poor person. Alternate translation: "will defend the one who is needy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 110

Psalms 110:intro-0

Psalm 110 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 110 is a psalm honoring the king as he becomes king and also a prophecy about Christ. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# King

The king will be able to conquer his enemies. Christ is seen as both high priest and king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/highpriest.md]])

Psalms 110:1

General Information:

Sit at my right hand

The phrase "my right hand" refers to the place of honor. Alternate translation: "Sit at the place of honor which I have for you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

make your enemies your footstool

Here David describes Yahweh placing his master's enemies under his power and control as putting them under his feet like a footstool. Alternate translation: "put your enemies under your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 110:2

General Information:

David continues speaking to the king.

Yahweh will hold out the scepter of your strength

Here David speaks of Yahweh extending the area that the king rules as holding out his scepter. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will extend the area over which you powerfully rule" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

rule among your enemies

"King, rule among your enemies." This is spoken to the king as a command.

Psalms 110:3

of their own free will

"by their own choice." This means that they will chose to follow the king.

on the day of your power

This refers to the day that the king will lead his armies into battle. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "on the day that you lead your armies into battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

from the womb of the dawn ... like the dew

David describes the dew as a baby to whom the dawn gives birth. Alternate translation: "in the morning ... like the dew" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

from the womb of the dawn your youth will be to you like the dew

David is telling the king that he will have youthful strength each morning by comparing it to how the dew appears early each morning. Alternate translation: "each morning you will be filled with youthful strength to sustain you just like each morning the dew appears to water and sustain the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 110:4

You are

Yahweh is speaking to the lord, the one David calls "my master" in Psalms 110:1.

will not change

This means that he will not change what he has said. Alternate translation: "will not change his mind" or "will not change what he has said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

after the manner of Melchizedek

The idea of being priest is understood from the previous phrase. It can be stated clearly here. Alternate translation: "after the manner that Melchizedek was priest" or "in the same way that Melchizedek was priest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 110:5

The Lord is at your right hand

When the lord goes to battle, Yahweh stands at his right hand in order to help him. Alternate translation: "The Lord helps you in battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The Lord

The word "Lord" refers to Yahweh.

He will kill

The word "He" refers to Yahweh. He will cause the kings to be defeated and die, but he will allow the king's armies to kill the enemy kings. Alternate translation: "He will cause the kings to die" or "He will allow your armies to kill the kings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

kings

This refers to his enemies. Alternate translation: "enemy kings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

on the day of his anger

Here David speaks of the day when Yahweh will become angry and defeat the kings as "the day of his anger." Alternate translation: "on the day of judgment when his patience turns to anger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 110:6

he will fill the battlegrounds with dead bodies

This means that Yahweh will cause this to happen, not that he will personally kill all of the people who die on the battleground. Alternate translation: "he will cause the battlegrounds to be filled with death bodies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he will kill the leaders in many countries

This means that Yahweh will cause this to happen, not that he will personally kill the leaders. Alternate translation: "he will cause the leaders in many countries to be killed" or "he will allow the leaders in many countries to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 110:7

He will drink of the brook along the road

The king only stops briefly for a drink and then he continues the pursuit of his enemies. Alternate translation: "As he pursues his enemies, he will only stop to drink quickly from a brook" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

of the brook

This means the he will drink water from the brook. A brook is a small stream. Alternate translation: "he will drink water from the brook" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

and then

"and so" or "therefore"

he will lift his head

Possible meanings are 1) the king lifts up his own head or 2) Yahweh lifts up the head of the king.

he will lift his head up high after victory

People raised their heads when they are victorious, confident, and joyful. Alternate translation: "he will confidently lift his head after victory" or "he will be victorious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 111

Psalms 111:intro-0

Psalm 111 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 111 is a psalm of praise to God for his miracles and care. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/miracle.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's character

God is great. He has given his people food and a land always keeps his promises to his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/peopleofgod.md]])

Psalms 111:1

General Information:

with my whole heart

Here the word "heart" represents the person's entire inner being and emotions. Alternate translation: "with all that I am" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in the assembly of the upright, in their gathering

These two phrases mean that same thing and may be combined if necessary. Alternate translation: "in the gathering of upright people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 111:2

eagerly awaited by all those who desire them

The word "them" refers to the "works of Yahweh." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "all those who desire the works of Yahweh eagerly await them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

eagerly awaited

Possible meanings are 1) "sought after" or 2) "studied."

Psalms 111:3

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Psalms 111:4

that will be remembered

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that people will always remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 111:5

call to mind

This is an idiom that means to remember. Alternate translation: "remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 111:6

his powerful works

"his works that demonstrated his power"

the inheritance of the nations

The writer speaks of the land that belonged to the nations in Canaan as if it were their inheritance. Alternate translation: "the land that belonged to other nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 111:7

The works of his hands

Here the word "hands" refers to Yahweh, himself. Alternate translation: "The works that he does" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 111:8

They are established forever

This means that Yahweh's instructions are unchangeable and will last forever. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "He has established them forever" or "They will last forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to be observed faithfully and properly

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh has given his instructions in a faithful and proper manner or 2) his people are to observe Yahweh's instructions in a faithful and proper manner. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "for his people to observe them faithfully and properly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 111:9

holy and awesome is his name

Here the word "name" refers to Yahweh, himself. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is holy and awesome" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 111:10

the beginning of wisdom

The word "wisdom" can be translated as "wise." Alternate translation: "the first step to becoming wise" or "the most important thing to become wise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

those who carry out his instructions

"those who obey his instructions"

His praise endures forever

The word "praise" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "People will praise him forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 112

Psalms 112:intro-0

Psalm 112 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 112 is a wisdom psalm teaching the value of a righteous life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Righteous people

The righteous people will be well-known for their generosity and they will not have to worry about bad news because God is taking care of them.

Psalms 112:1

General Information:

greatly delights

"takes great pleasure"

Psalms 112:2

the descendants of the godly man will be blessed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will bless the descendants of the godly man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 112:3

General Information:

The person who sings this song continues to describe a person who reveres Yahweh.

Wealth and riches are in his house

Here the word "house" represents the family. The words "Wealth" and "riches" mean basically the same thing and indicate an abundance of wealth. Alternate translation: "His family is very wealthy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 112:4

Light shines in the darkness for the godly person

The writer speaks of God blessing the godly person in difficult times as if it were a light shining in darkness. Alternate translation: "The blessings that a godly person receives from God are like a light that shines in the darkness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 112:5

lends money

The understood information can be made clear. Alternate translation: "lends his money to other people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 112:6

General Information:

The person who sings this song continues to describe a person who reveres Yahweh.

For he will never be moved

he will not be troubled or overwhelmed by circumstances for his trust is in Yahweh? This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For nothing will ever move him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the righteous person will be remembered forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people will remember the righteous person forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 112:7

General Information:

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Psalms 112:8

General Information:

The person who sings this song continues to describe a person who reveres Yahweh.

His heart is tranquil

"His heart is supported." Here the word "heart" refers to the person. Possible meanings are 1) "He is at peace" or 2) "He is confident" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 112:9

his righteousness endures forever

"his righteous deeds will endure forever." See how you translated this in Psalms 112:3.

he will be exalted with honor

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will exalt him by giving him honor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 112:10

will see this

"will see that things go well for the godly person." The word "this" refers to everything good that the writer has described in the previous verses about the godly person.

he will grind his teeth in rage

The grinding of teeth is an expression of extreme anger. See how you translated a similar phrase in Psalms 35:16. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

melt away

The writer speaks of the wicked person's eventual death as if that person were something, such as ice, that can melt. Alternate translation: "eventually die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the desire of the wicked people will perish

Possible meanings of "desire" are 1) the emotional desire that wicked people have. Alternate translation: "the things that wicked people want to do will never happen" or 2) it is a metonym for the things that wicked people have desired. Alternate translation: "wicked people will lose the things that they desired" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 113

Psalms 113:intro-0

Psalm 113 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 113 is a psalm of praise to God for his goodness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

God helps the poor and gives children to the wife who cannot conceive children.

Psalms 113:1

General Information:

the name of Yahweh

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh, himself. Alternate translation: "Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 113:2

General Information:

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Psalms 113:3

From the rising of the sun to its setting

This phrase refers to the directions east, where the sun rises, and west, where the sun sets. The writer uses these two extremes to represent everywhere on earth. See how you translated this in Psalms 50:1. Alternate translation: "Everywhere on earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Yahweh's name should be praised

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh, himself. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people should praise Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 113:4

his glory reaches above the skies

The glory of God is spoken of as if it was very high. Alternate translation: "his glory is higher than the skies" or "his glory is enormously great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 113:5

Who is like Yahweh our God, who has his seat on high

This is the first part of a rhetorical question that the writer asks to emphasize that there is no one like Yahweh. It may be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "There is no one like Yahweh our God, who has his seat on high" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

who has his seat on high

"who is enthroned on high" or "who rules in the highest position"

Psalms 113:6

who looks down at the sky and at the earth

This is the second part of a rhetorical question that the writer asks to emphasize that there is no one like Yahweh. It may be translated as a statement that begins a new sentence. Alternate translation: "There is no one like Yahweh our God, who looks down at the sky and at the earth." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 113:7

He raises up the poor ... from the ash heap

These two phrases are parallel. The writer speaks of Yahweh helping and honoring people who are poor as if Yahweh caused them to stand up from sitting in dirt and ashes. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

out of the dirt ... from the ash heap

Sitting in dirt and ashes represents either poverty or despair. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 113:8

so that he may seat him with princes, with the princes of his people

Here the second phrase clarifies that the first phrase refers to the princes of Yahweh's people. These two statements can be combined. Alternate translation: "so that Yahweh may seat him next to rulers of his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 113:9

He gives a home to the barren woman of the house

Here "home" refers to the children that live in a home. Alternate translation: "He gives children to the woman who had none" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 114

Psalms 114:intro-0

Psalm 114 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 114 is a psalm of praise to God for his miracles in bringing the people of Israel to the promised land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/miracle.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

The psalmist praised God for opening up the Red Sea for the people to cross, for providing the earthquake that stopped the Jordan River so the people could cross and providing water from a rock for the people to drink.

Psalms 114:1

General Information:

When Israel left Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people who spoke a foreign language

These two lines are parallel, with "Israel" and "the house of Jacob" meaning the same thing and "Egypt" and "that foreign people" referring to the same people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the house of Jacob from a people who spoke a foreign language

The word "house" here represents the family or descendents. The verb may be supplied to this phrase. Alternate translation: "the descendants of Jacob left people who spoke a language that the descendants of Jacob did not understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 114:2

Judah became his holy place, Israel his kingdom

Possible meanings for "Judah" and "Israel" are 1) they refer to the land. Alternate translation: "The land of Judah became Yahweh's holy place, the land of Israel became his kingdom" or 2) they are metonyms for the people of Judah and Israel. Alternate translation: "The people of Judah became those among whom Yahweh lived, the people of Israel became those over whom he ruled" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 114:3

The sea looked and fled

The writer speaks of the Sea of Reeds as if it were a person who fled away as Yahweh led the people of Israel through on dry ground. Alternate translation: "It was as though the sea looked and fled" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the Jordan turned back

The writer speaks of the Jordan River as if it were a person who retreated as Yahweh led the people of Israel through on dry ground. Alternate translation: "it was as though the Jordan retreated" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 114:4

The mountains skipped like rams, the hills skipped like lambs

The writer speaks of the mountains and hills as if they are alive. He is probably speaking of an earthquake when he describes their fear at the presence of Yahweh as if they were jumping like rams and lambs. Alternate translation: "It was as if the mountains shook like jumping rams and the hills shook like jumping lambs" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 114:5

General Information:

Verses 5-6 contain four rhetorical questions. The expected answer to each question is found in verse 7, "because of the presence of the Lord." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 114:6

skip like rams ... skip like lambs

The writer speaks of the mountains and hills as if they are alive. He is probably speaking of an earthquake when he describes their fear at the presence of Yahweh as if they were jumping like rams and lambs. See how you translated similar phrases in Psalms 114:4. Alternate translation: "shake like jumping rams ... shake like jumping lambs" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 114:7

Tremble, earth, before the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob

The last two phrases are parallel. The verb may be supplied in the second line. Alternate translation: "Tremble, earth, before the Lord, tremble at the presence of the God of Jacob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Tremble, earth

Possible meanings are 1) the writer is speaking to the earth as if it were a person and commands it to tremble with fear before God or 2) the word "earth" is a metonym for those who live on the earth. Alternate translation: "Tremble, everyone one earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 114:8

He turned the rock into a pool of water, the hard rock into a spring of water

These two phrases are parallel. The writer describes Yahweh causing water to flow from the rock as if he turned the rock into water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the hard rock into a spring of water

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "He turned the hard rock into a spring of water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 115

Psalms 115:intro-0

Psalm 115 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 115 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's power

God is in heaven and is able to do whatever he wants. Idols can not do anything. Therefore, people and priests should trust God for their protection. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/heaven.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/priest.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Psalms 115:1

General Information:

Not to us, Yahweh, not to us

The writer repeats the phrase "Not to us" in order to emphasize that they are not worthy to receive the honor that is due only to Yahweh. If necessary, a verbal phrase may be supplied here. Alternate translation: "Do not bring honor to us, Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

to us

The word "us" refers to the people of Israel.

but to your name bring honor

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh, himself. Alternate translation: "but bring honor to yourself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for your covenant faithfulness and for your trustworthiness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. The abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "because you are faithful to your covenant and you are worthy of people trusting you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 115:2

Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?"

This rhetorical question emphasizes that there should be no reason for the nations to say what they say. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "The people of the nations should not be able to say, 'Where is their God?'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Where is their God?

The people of other nations use this question to mock the people of Israel and to express that they do not see Yahweh helping them. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Your God is not here to help you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 115:3

General Information:

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Psalms 115:4

the work of men's hands

Here the word "hands" represents the people who made the idols. Alternate translation: "things which men have made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 115:5

Those idols have mouths

The idols do not have real mouths, eyes, ears, or noses. Rather, people made them with the likeness of mouths, eyes, ears, and noses. The writer is emphasizing that these idols are not really alive. You can make clear the implied information. Alternate translation: "People have given mouths to those idols" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 115:6

General Information:

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Psalms 115:7

Those idols have hands

The idols do not have real hands, feet, or mouths. Rather, people made them with the likeness of hands, feet, and mouths. The writer is emphasizing that these idols are not really alive. You can make this implicit information clear. Alternate translation: "People have given hands to those idols" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

but do not feel

"but those hands do not feel"

Psalms 115:8

Those who make them are like them, as is everyone who trusts in them

Those who make and worship idols become lifeless and powerless, just like those idols. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "Those who make them become lifeless like they are, as does everyone who trusts in them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 115:9

Israel, trust in Yahweh

The word "Israel" represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "People of Israel, trust in Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your help and shield

The writer speaks of Yahweh as if he were a shield because he protects his people as a shield would protect them from harm. Alternate translation: "the one who helps you and protects you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 115:10

House of Aaron

Here the word "House" represents the family or descendants. This phrase refers to the priests, who were descendants of Aaron. Alternate translation: "Descendants of Aaron" or "Priests" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 115:11

General Information:

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Psalms 115:12

takes notice of us

"has paid attention to us"

the family of Israel

This refers to the people of Israel, who are descendants of Jacob, who also called Israel. Alternate translation: "the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the family of Aaron

This refers to the priests, who are descendants of Aaron. Alternate translation: "the descendants of Aaron" or "the priests" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 115:13

both young and old

"both small and great." Possible meanings are that this refers 1) to social status or 2) to age. In either case, the two extremes represent every person, regardless of age or social status. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 115:14

May Yahweh increase your numbers more and more

The writer is speaking of the number of children that the people of Israel would have. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh increase the number of your children more and more" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

yours and your descendants'

"both your children and your descendants' children." The writer clarifies that his request for more children applies not only to the present generation, but to their descendants, as well.

Psalms 115:15

May you be blessed by Yahweh, who made heaven and earth

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh, who made heaven and earth, bless you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 115:16

the earth he has given to mankind

This does not mean that the earth does not belong to Yahweh, but that has given the earth to mankind as a dwelling place.

Psalms 115:17

The dead

The adjective "dead" may be translated with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "People who are dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

nor do any who go down into silence

This parallel phrase has a similar meaning to phrase before it. The verb may be supplied from that previous phrase to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: "nor do any who go down into silence praise Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

nor do any who go down into silence

The writer speaks of the grave or the place of the dead as a place of silence where no one can speak. This is a euphemism for death. Alternate translation: "nor do any who go to the place of the dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 115:18

But we

The word "we" refers to the people of Israel who are still alive.

Psalms 116

Psalms 116:intro-0

Psalm 116 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 116 is a psalm of praise for saving the psalmist's life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Healing

The author was very sick and expected to die but God healed him. So he will pay his vow and sacrifice an offering of thanks. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/vow.md]])

Psalms 116:1

General Information:

he hears my voice and my pleas for mercy

Here the word "voice" represents the person who is speaking. The abstract nouns "pleas" and "mercy" can be stated as "plead" and "merciful." Alternate translation: "he hears me when I plead for him to be merciful to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 116:2

General Information:

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Psalms 116:3

General Information:

The person who composed this psalm continues to speak.

The cords of death surrounded me

The writer speaks of death as if it were a person who could capture him and bind him with ropes. See how you translated this in Psalms 18:4. Alternate translation: "I felt like I was about to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the snares of Sheol confronted me

The writer speaks of "Sheol," the place of the dead, as if it were a person who could trap him with snares. Alternate translation: "I felt as if I were ready to enter the grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 116:4

called on the name of Yahweh

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "called out to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

rescue my life

Here the word "life" represents the person. Alternate translation: "rescue me" or "keep me from dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 116:5

General Information:

The person who made this song continues to speak.

Psalms 116:6

the naive

This refers to people who are inexperienced or who cannot care for themselves. The adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "those who are naive" or "those who are helpless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

I was brought low

The writer speaks of being humbled as in being in a lower position. Alternate translation: "I was helpless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 116:7

General Information:

The person who composed this psalm continues to speak.

My soul can return to its resting place

The writer speaks of having peace and confidence as if it were a place where his soul can rest. The word "soul" represents the person. Alternate translation: "I can rest in peace again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 116:8

you rescued my life from death

Here the word "you" refers to Yahweh. The word "life" represents the person. Alternate translation: "you have saved me from death" or "you have kept me from dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my eyes from tears

"you have kept me from crying"

my feet from stumbling

The feet here represent the person. Stumbling here probably represents being killed by his enemies. Alternate translation: "you have rescued me from stumbling" or "you have kept me from being killed by my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 116:9

General Information:

The person who composed this psalm continues to speak.

in the land of the living

"in this world where people are alive." This is in contrast to the place of the dead.

Psalms 116:10

I am greatly afflicted

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I suffer greatly" or "People afflict me very much" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 116:11

In my confusion I said

"I said too quickly" or "I said without considering"

All men are liars

"Every person is a liar" or "All people are liars"

Psalms 116:12

General Information:

The person who made this song continues to speak.

How can I repay Yahweh ... to me?

The writer asks this leading question to introduce how he will respond to what Yahweh has done for him. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "This is how I will repay Yahweh ... to me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 116:13

I will raise the cup of salvation

This is probably a reference to a drink offering, which was a sacrifice that involved pouring wine on the altar, and which the writer will offer in response to Yahweh saving him. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "I will present a drink offering to Yahweh because he saved me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

call on the name of Yahweh

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "call on Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 116:14

General Information:

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Psalms 116:15

Precious in the sight of Yahweh is the death of his faithful ones

The word "Precious" here does not imply that Yahweh values the death of his saints, but that the death of his saints is costly to him and grieves him. Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "Yahweh considers the death of his saints to be a costly thing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 116:16

General Information:

The person who composed this psalm continues to speak.

the son of your servant woman

This is likely a reference to the writer's mother and indicates that she faithfully worshiped Yahweh. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: "as my mother was" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

you have taken away my bonds

The writer speaks of being in danger of dying as if he had been chained in prison. Alternate translation: "you have saved me from death" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 116:17

the sacrifice of thanksgiving

"a sacrifice to express my thankfulness"

will call on the name of Yahweh

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "will call on Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 116:18

General Information:

The person who made this song continues to speak.

I will fulfill ... all his people

See how you translated Psalms 116:14.

Psalms 116:19

in the courts of the house of Yahweh

The word "house" refers to Yahweh's temple. Alternate translation: "in the courtyards of Yahweh's temple" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in your midst, Jerusalem

The writer speaks to Jerusalem as though it were a person. Alternate translation: "in Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

Psalms 117

Psalms 117:intro-0

Psalm 117 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 117 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

Everyone should praise God for his love and unending faithfulness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/love.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]])

Psalms 117:1

General Information:

Psalms 117:2

For his

"Because his"

his covenant faithfulness is great toward us

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "he does great things for us because he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the trustworthiness of Yahweh endures forever

The abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be translated with an adjective or a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "Yahweh remains trustworthy forever" or "Yahweh will forever be worthy of people trusting him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 118

Psalms 118:intro-0

Psalm 118 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 118 is a psalm of war and is about Christ. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Rejected stone

The author praised Yahweh for his rescuing him. God enabled him to overpower his enemies. The new Testament, and even Jesus himself, saw the rejected stone as a reference to the Messiah's rejection by the Jewish leaders. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Psalms 118:1

General Information:

Give thanks to Yahweh, for he is good

"Thank Yahweh because of the good things he does"

his covenant faithfulness endures forever

Psalms 118:2

Let Israel say

The word "Israel" represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Let the people of Israel say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 118:3

Let the house of Aaron say

Here the word "house" represents the family and descendants of a person. This phrase refers to the priests, who were descendants of Aaron. Alternate translation: "Let the descendants of Aaron say" or "Let the priests say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

His covenant faithfulness endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. See how you translated this in Psalms 118:1-2. Alternate translation: "He remains faithful to his covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 118:4

the loyal followers of Yahweh

"those who fear Yahweh" or "those who worship Yahweh"

Psalms 118:5

set me free

The writer speaks of Yahweh saving him from distress as if Yahweh had taken him from a place of confinement to a wide open space where he could move about freely. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 118:6

what can man do to me?

The writer asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is nothing that man can do to hurt him since Yahweh is with him. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "people cannot do anything to harm me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 118:7

Yahweh is on my side as my helper

To be on one's side is an idiomatic expression that indicates that that person approves of and will help another. Alternate translation: "Yahweh approves of me and will help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I will look in triumph on those who hate me

It is implied that Yahweh is the one who will defeat the writer's enemies, while the writer looks on. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: "I will see Yahweh defeating all those who hate me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 118:8

to take shelter in Yahweh

God is spoken of as if he were a shelter, a place where people can be protected. Alternate translation: "to seek protection from Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 118:9

to take refuge in Yahweh

This verse is parallel to the one preceding it. God is spoken of as if he were a refuge, a place where people can be protected. Alternate translation: "to seek protection from Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 118:10

All the nations

Here the word "nations" represents the armies of those nations. The writer uses hyperbole to emphasize the great number of armies that surrounded him. Alternate translation: "The armies of many nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

in Yahweh's name

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "by Yahweh's power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I cut them off

The writer speaks of defeating the enemy armies as if he were cutting them off like a person would cut a branch off of a plant. Alternate translation: "I defeated them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 118:11

General Information:

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Psalms 118:12

They surrounded me like bees

The writer compares the enemy armies to a swarm of bees. Alternate translation: "They surrounded me like a swarm of bees would surround a person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

they disappeared as quickly as fire among thorns

Just like dry thorns burn out quickly, the attack of the enemy armies was quickly over. Alternate translation: "their attack lasted only a short time, as a fire that consumes thorns quickly dies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 118:13

to knock me down

The writer speaks of the enemy armies trying to defeat him as if they were trying to push him down onto the ground. Alternate translation: "in order to defeat me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 118:14

Yahweh is my strength and joy

"Yahweh gives me strength and joy"

Psalms 118:15

The joyful shout of victory is heard in the tents of the righteous

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People hear the joyful shout of victory in the tents of the righteous" or "The righteous shout joyfully for victory in their tents" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the right hand of Yahweh conquers

Here the word "hand" represents Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has conquered by his great strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 118:16

The right hand of Yahweh is exalted

Here, to raise one's hand is a gesture of victory. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has exalted his right hand" or "Yahweh has raised his right hand in victory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 118:17

I will not die, but live

The writer states the same idea both negatively and positively to emphasize that he will certainly live. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 118:18

Yahweh has punished me

"Yahweh has disciplined me"

he has not handed me over to death

The writer speaks of death as if it were a person under whose power Yahweh could place the writer. Alternate translation: "he has not allowed me to die" or "he has not allowed my enemies to kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 118:19

Open to me the gates of righteousness

"Open to me the gates through which the righteous people enter." This is a reference to the gates of the temple, and the writer is addressing the gatekeepers. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: "Open for me the temple gates" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 118:20

the gate of Yahweh

"the gate that leads to Yahweh's presence" or "Yahweh's gate"

Psalms 118:21

I will give thanks to you

Here the writer begins to speak to Yahweh.

you have become my salvation

The word "salvation" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "you have saved me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 118:22

The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone

This is likely a proverb that the writer has used to describe either the king or the nation of Israel. That which others have considered worthless, Yahweh has made to be the most important. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-proverbs/01.md]])

Psalms 118:23

it is marvelous in our eyes

Possible meanings are 1) "it is a marvelous thing for us to see" or 2) "we consider it to be a marvelous thing." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 118:24

rejoice and be glad

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of joy. Alternate translation: "be very glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 118:25

General Information:

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Psalms 118:26

Blessed is he who comes in the name of Yahweh

Here the priests begin to address the king.

he who comes in the name of Yahweh

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "the one who comes in the power of the Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

we bless you from the house of Yahweh

Here the priests address the people.

the house of Yahweh

The word "house" refers to the temple. Alternate translation: "Yahweh's temple" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 118:27

he has given us light

The writer speaks of Yahweh blessing his people as if Yahweh were shining a light on them. Alternate translation: "he has blessed us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

bind the sacrifice with cords

"tie the sacrifice with rope"

Psalms 118:28

You are my God

Here the writer begins to speak again and addresses Yahweh directly.

Psalms 118:29

Oh

This is an exclamation that should be translated with whatever exclamation of emphasis you have in your language to make it sound natural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclamations/01.md]])

give thanks to Yahweh, for he is good

"thank Yahweh because of the good things he does." See how you translated this in Psalms 118:1.

his covenant faithfulness endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. See how you translated this in Psalms 118:1-2. Alternate translation: "he remains faithful to his covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119

Psalms 119:intro-0

Psalm 119 General Notes

Formatting in this chapter

This is a certain kind of psalm called an acrostic. The Hebrew language has twenty-two letters, and this psalm has twenty-two groups of verses, one group for each letter of the alphabet. Each group has eight verses, and each verse in a group begins with the same letter. The verses in the first group begin with the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, the verses in the second group begin with the second letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and so on through the whole alphabet.

In the ULB, the names of the Hebrew letters are written in uppercase letters before each group of verses that begin with that letter. The names of the first four Hebrew letters are ALEPH, BETH, GIMEL, and DALETH. You will be able to recognize the names of the other Hebrew letters as you see them because they, too, are written in uppercase letters. These letter names are not actually part of the psalm, but many translations use them to help the readers see its structure.

Type of psalm

Psalm 119 is a wisdom psalm about the Law of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# The Law

The author loved the law of God and was blessed by obeying it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/love.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Psalms 119:1

General Information:

"Aleph" is the name of the first letter in the Hebrew alphabet. Each of verses 1 through 8 begins with this Hebrew letter. See "Formatting in this chapter" in Psalm 119 General Notes.

Blessed are those

"How good it is for those"

those whose ways are blameless

How a person behaves is spoken of as "ways" or "paths." Alternate translation: "those whose behavior is blameless" or "those whom no one can blame for doing wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who walk in the law of Yahweh

The way a person lives or behaves is spoken of as walking. Alternate translation: "who live according to the law of Yahweh" or "who obey the law of Yahweh." This phrase clarifies the meaning of "whose ways are blameless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:2

who seek him with all their heart

To "seek" God means to want to know him.

with all their heart

This is an idiom which means intensely or sincerely. Alternate translation: "with all their being" or "with everything in them" or "sincerely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:3

General Information:

Most of this psalm is addressed to God, and the words "you" and "your" almost always refer to him.

They do no wrong

They do not disobey Yahweh.

they walk in his ways

"they walk in Yahweh's ways." Here their behavior is spoken of as "walking," and the way God wants them to behave is spoken of as "his ways." Alternate translation: "they behave as Yahweh wants them to"

Psalms 119:4

keep your instructions

"obey all the things that you have declared that we should do"

carefully observe them

This is to carefully know and understand the commandments and to obey those commandments.

Psalms 119:5

I would be firmly established

The writer speaks of being established in God's commandments as if no one could physically make him move. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

observance of your statutes

"in obeying your statutes"

Psalms 119:6

I would not be put to shame

The writer does not want to be ashamed when he is in God's presence.

all your commandments

"all that you have commanded us"

Psalms 119:7

an upright heart

"a sincere heart." A person who is sincere will do what is right. The heart refers to the center of emotions in a person. See how you translated "uprightness" in Psalms 25:21. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 119:8

your statutes

"Statutes" refers to God's laws or commands.

Psalms 119:9

General Information

"Beth" is the name of the second letter in the Hebrew alphabet. Each of verses 9 through 16 begins with this Hebrew letter. See "Formatting in this chapter" in Psalm 119 General Notes.

How can a young person keep his path pure?

This question is used to introduce a new value to the word of God. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "This is how a young person can keep his path pure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

keep his path pure

The writer compares living according to God's law as a path kept clear of obstructions. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:10

With my whole heart

This is an idiom. The heart refers to all of one's emotions, feelings, desires, and will. Alternate translation: "with all my being" or "with everything in me" or "sincerely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Do not let me stray from your commandments

Here to disobey God's commandments is described as straying off a path. Alternate translation: "Do not let me disobey your commandments" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:11

I have stored up your word in my heart

"I have put your words in my heart." This is a metaphor that means "I have memorized your word." The heart is pictured as a container that can hold what people think. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:12

General Information:

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Psalms 119:13

General Information:

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Psalms 119:14

more than in all riches

"more than all the wealth"

Psalms 119:15

I will meditate ... and pay attention

These are parallel thoughts that have similar meanings, which are repeated for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

meditate on your instructions

"think carefully about what you have instructed us"

pay attention

This idiom refers to thinking clearly about what is being discussed. Alternate translation: "give careful thought" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:16

I delight

to take pleasure

Psalms 119:17

General Information

"Gimel" is the name of the third letter in the Hebrew alphabet. Each of verses 17 through 24 begins with this Hebrew letter. See "Formatting in this chapter" in Psalm 119 General Notes.

your servant

The writer called himself "your servant" to show his humility.

Psalms 119:18

Open my eyes so that I may see

The author speaks of gaining understanding, knowledge and wisdom as being able to see. Alternate translation: Help me to understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

marvelous things in your law

The author speaks of insight into the law as objects to marvel at. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in your law

"in your instructions" or "in your commands"

Psalms 119:19

I am a foreigner in the land

Possible meanings are 1) the writers speaks of his short life on earth as if he were a foreigner who would not stay long in the land. Alternate translation: "I am like a foreigner living a short time in the land" or 2) the writer's ignorance of God's law as if he were a foreigner who did not know the laws of the land. Alternate translation: "I am ignorant like a foreigner in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:20

My desires are crushed by the longing

The writer speaks of his desires being very strong as if they were in pain. Alternate translation: "My inner being strongly desires to know" or "My soul aches because I want so much to know" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:21

who are cursed

Possible meanings are that 1) God will curse them or 2) they deserve God's punishment. Alternate translation: "who deserve your punishment"

who wander from your commandments

The writer speaks of disobeying God's commandments as if they were a path that can be wandered off from. Alternate translation: "who go away from the path of your commandments" or "who disobey your commandments" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:22

Spare me from

"Keep me from" or "Rescue me from"

Psalms 119:23

Though rulers plot and slander me

"Though rulers make plans to harm me and say bad things about me"

Psalms 119:24

Your covenant decrees are my delight

"Your covenant decrees make me very happy."

they are my counselors

God's decrees are spoken of as if they were people. Alternate translation: "they are like wise counselors to me" or "they give me wise counsel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 119:25

General Information

"Daleth" is the name of the fourth letter in the Hebrew alphabet. Each of verses 25 through 32 begins with this Hebrew letter. See "Formatting in this chapter" in Psalm 119 General Notes.

My life clings to the dust

This is an idiom. Possible meanings are that 1) he thought that he would die soon, or 2) he lay in the dust because he was very sad, or 3) he realized that he desired the worthless things of the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Give me life by your word

This is an idiom. Here "life" refers to purpose and significance, not just biological life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

by your word

"according to your promise"

Psalms 119:26

my ways

What a person does or how he behaves is spoken of as if it were a road or way. Alternate translation: "what I have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:27

wondrous teachings

"amazing teachings"

Psalms 119:28

with grief

"because I am so sad"

Strengthen me

"Make me strong." This may refer to physical strength or spiritual strength.

Psalms 119:29

Turn from me the path of deceit

The word "path" here refers to a way of behaving. Alternate translation: "Keep me from following the path of deceit" or "Prevent me from being deceptive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

deceit

Possible meanings are 1) "lying" or 2) "believing lies" or "following lies."

Psalms 119:30

the way of faithfulness

How a person behaves or acts is spoken as if it were a road or way. Alternate translation: "to be faithful to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:31

I cling to your covenant decrees

Holding tightly to them refers to being committed to obeying them. Alternate translation: "I hold tightly to your covenant decrees" or "I am committed to obeying your covenant decrees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

covenant decrees

This refers to the law of Moses.

Psalms 119:32

I will run in the path of your commandments

The writer speaks of being focused or committed to obeying God's commands as if one is running on a path. Alternate translation: "I will be committed to obey your commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you enlarge my heart

This is an idiom. Possible meanings are 1) "you help me gain greater understanding of your commands" or 2) "you give me greater desire to obey your commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:33

your statutes

This is another way of describing the law of Moses.

to the end

Possible meanings are 1) "completely" or 2) "to the end of my life" or 3) "to the end of time."

Psalms 119:34

keep your law

"obey your law"

I will observe it with all my heart

"I will surely observe your law" or "I am completely committed to doing what it says"

with all my heart

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "with all my being" or "with everything in me" or "sincerely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:35

Guide me in the path of your commandments

"Guide me according to your commandments" or "Teach me to obey your commandments." God's commandments are compared to a path that a person walks in obedience to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:36

Direct my heart toward

This is an idiom. The "heart" here refers to the will, desires, and choices that directs one's life. Alternate translation: "Make me want" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your covenant decrees

"to obey your covenant decrees." This is referring to obeying the law of Moses.

unrighteous gain

"the desire for riches." This is referring to wealth gained by illegal methods or wrongdoing towards others.

Psalms 119:37

Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things

This is a metaphor that refers to one desiring things that have no eternal value. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

revive me in your ways

"make me able to live as you wish me to live"

revive me

"make my life strong" or "give me strength"

Psalms 119:38

Carry out for your servant your promise that you made to those who honor you

"Do for your servant what you promised to do for those who honor you"

your servant

The writer referred to himself as God's servant to show his humility. Alternate translation: "me, your servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 119:39

I dread

"I am very afraid of"

your righteous judgments are good

God judges rightly and his decisions are good. Alternate translation: "Your judgments are righteous and good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:40

See

This refers to being aware of the situation. The focus is on knowledge or understanding, rather than just observing.

I have longed for your instructions

Possible meanings are 1) "I want very much to know your instructions" or 2) "I want very much to obey what you teach us to do."

revive me in your righteousness

The word "righteousness" is an abstract noun and refers to being righteous. Alternate translation: "revive me because you are righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

revive me

Possible meanings are 1) "Keep me alive" or 2) "Make me strong."

Psalms 119:41

your salvation

You may make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "give me your salvation" or "save me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 119:42

a reply

"an answer" or "a response"

Psalms 119:43

Do not take the word of truth from my mouth

Here the writer is represented by his "mouth." Possible meanings are 1) "never prevent me from speaking the message about the truth" or 2) "never prevent me from speaking the true message."

Psalms 119:44

I will observe

"I will obey"

Psalms 119:45

I will walk securely

To walk securely is to live one's life securely. Alternate translation: "I will live securely in God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I seek your instructions

To "seek" is to perceive, or gain understanding of God's instructions as if one can see them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:46

solemn commands before kings

"serious commands to kings" or "instructions to kings"

Psalms 119:47

I delight in your commandments

Possible meanings are 1) "I find delight in studying your commandments" or 2) "I am delighted that I have the opportunity to study your commandments."

Psalms 119:48

lift up my hands to

This is an idiom which means to honor, cherish or respect God's commandments. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:49

Call to mind your promise

"Remember your promise." See how you translated this in Psalms 20:3

Psalms 119:50

This is my comfort in my affliction: that your promise has kept me alive

This clause can be restructured. Alternate translation: "The reason for my comfort is that your promise has kept me alive in my affliction" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-sentences/01.md]])

Psalms 119:51

The proud

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "The proud people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

scoffed at

to mock someone or something that is looked down on, doubted, or not honored

Psalms 119:52

from ancient times

This is a reference to when the decrees, the Law, were given to Moses many years before. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 119:53

Hot anger has taken hold of me

This is an idiom. Anger is expressed as if it is a person that can grab another person. Alternate translation: "I have become very angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 119:54

Your statutes have been my songs

"I have used your statutes as lyrics to my music" or "I have created songs from your statutes"

Psalms 119:55

I think about your name

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "I think about you, Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I keep your law

This is an idiom which means to obey the law. Alternate translation: "I obey your law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:56

my practice

"my habit"

I have observed your instructions

This is an idiom which means to follow or to obey those instructions. Alternate translation: "I have obeyed your instructions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:57

Yahweh is my portion

This means Yahweh is all he wants. Just as the Levites did not receive vast territories of land for the Lord was to be their portion so the writer claims Yahweh as the satisfier of his needs. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 119:58

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Psalms 119:59

turned my feet

Here "feet" represent the whole person. To repent and choose to obey God's laws is like turning one's feet on a path to head in another direction. Alternate translation: "changed my direction" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:60

I hurry and do not delay

The writer expresses the same idea both positively and negatively in order to emphasize the urgency with which he obeys Yahweh's commands. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 119:61

The cords of the wicked have ensnared me

In this metaphor, wicked or evil people tried to cause the writer to sin like a hunter seeking to catch an animal with a trap. Alternate translation: "My enemies have tried to catch me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:62

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Psalms 119:63

I am a companion of all who honor you

"I am a friend of all who honor you"

Psalms 119:64

The earth, Yahweh, is full of your covenant faithfulness

People everywhere in the world being able to see evidence of Yahweh's covenant faithfulness is spoken of as if his covenant faithfulness filled the earth. The abstract noun "covenant faithfulness" can be translated as an adjective. See how you translated a similar phrase in Psalms 33:5. Alternate translation: "People everywhere on earth can see that you, Yahweh, are faithful to your covenant" or "Throughout the earth, there is evidence that you, Yahweh, are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:65

to your servant

The writer refers to himself as "your servant." Alternate translation: "to me, your servant" or "to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

by means of your word

This is an idiom. "Your word" refers to the promises Yahweh has made to the writer. Alternate translation: "as you have promised" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:66

Teach me proper discernment and understanding, for I have believed in your commandments

Some languages may require change in logical progression. Alternate translation: "Since I have believed in your commandments, teach me proper discernment and understanding" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-sentences/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-intro/01.md]])

Psalms 119:67

Before I was afflicted

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Before you afflicted me" or "Before you punished me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I went astray

Disobeying God is spoken of as if the person walked on the wrong path. Alternate translation: "I disobeyed you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I observe your word

Here "word" represents commandments. Alternate translation: "I obey your commandments" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 119:68

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Psalms 119:69

The arrogant

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Arrogant people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

smeared me with lies

People telling many lies about a person is spoken of as if they made the person dirty by spreading lies over him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with my whole heart

Here "heart" represents a person's will. Alternate translation: "with complete commitment" or "completely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 119:70

Their hearts are hardened

Here "hearts" represents the people's wills. A person being stubborn is spoken of as if their hearts or wills were hard like a rock. Alternate translation: "They are stubborn" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:71

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Psalms 119:72

Instruction from your mouth is

Here "mouth" represents what God says. Alternate translation: "The instructions you have spoken are" or "Your instructions are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

than thousands of pieces of gold and silver

This can be stated more generally. Alternate translation: "than a large amount of money" or "than great wealth"

Psalms 119:73

Your hands have made and fashioned me

God creating a person is spoken of as if God used his hands to shape the person the way someone may shape clay into an object. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Your hands

Here "hands" represents God's power or action. Alternate translation: "You" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 119:74

because I find hope in your word

"because I trust what you say" or "I confidently believe what you say"

Psalms 119:75

in faithfulness you afflicted me

God promises to reward the righteous and punish wrongdoers, so he is faithful to do what he says he will. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "you punished me because you are faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:76

Let your covenant faithfulness comfort me

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "Comfort me by showing me that you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your servant

The writer refers to himself as "your servant." Alternate translation: "me, your servant" or "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 119:77

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Psalms 119:78

Let the proud be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Put the proud to shame" or "Cause those who are proud to be ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the proud

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "proud people" or "those who are proud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 119:79

turn to me

People returning in friendship to the writer is spoken of as if they physically turn towards him. Alternate translation: "come to me" or "unite with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who know your covenant decrees

Possible meanings are 1) this further describes those who honor God or 2) this indicates the purpose for those who honor God to return to the writer. Alternate translation: "so that they may learn your covenant decrees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-connectingwords/01.md]])

Psalms 119:80

May my heart be blameless

Here "heart" represents a person's thoughts and motives. Alternate translation: "May I be blameless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I may not be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I may not be ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 119:81

I hope in your word

"I confidently trust in what you say"

Psalms 119:82

My eyes long to see your promise

Here "eyes" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I wait and wait for you to do what you promised to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 119:83

I have become like a wineskin in the smoke

A wineskin is ruined when it hangs for a long time in a smoke-filled place. The writer compares himself to a wineskin that has been ruined by smoke to emphasize that he feels useless. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 119:84

How long must your servant endure this; when will you judge those who persecute me?

The writer uses a question to request God to punish those who persecute him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Please do not make wait any longer. Punish those who persecute me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

must your servant

The writer refers to himself as "your servant." Alternate translation: "must I, your servant" or "must I" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Psalms 119:85

The proud have dug pits for me

The proud are seeking to capture the writer or cause him to do wrong. This is spoken of as if they were hunters digging holes to trap the writer like an animal. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The proud

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Proud people" or "Those who are proud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 119:86

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Psalms 119:87

They have almost made an end to me on earth

This is a polite way of speaking about someone killing someone else. Alternate translation: "They have almost killed me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 119:88

By your steadfast love

"According to your steadfast love." The phrase "steadfast love" or "faithfulness" can be stated as an adverb. Alternate translation: "because you faithfully love me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:89

your word stands forever

"what you have said will be true forever"

your word is established firmly in heaven

This speaks about what God has said as if it were an object that stands firmly upright. Alternate translation: "what you have said will be true in heaven forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:90

for all generations

"for all future generations." This is an idiom that means "forever." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:91

all things are your servants

All created things are spoken of as if they were persons who can serve God. Alternate translation: "all things serve you" or "all things obey your commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 119:92

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Psalms 119:93

I will never forget

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I will always remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

for through them you have kept me alive

It is implied that the writer obeys God's instructions. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "for you have kept me alive because I obey them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 119:94

for I seek your instructions

Trying hard to obey God's instructions is spoken of as if instructions were an object for which a person must search. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:95

I will seek to understand

"I will try hard to understand"

Psalms 119:96

All perfection I have seen has an end

Possible meanings are 1) "I have seen that all perfect things eventually cease," referring to the best things that people can do, or 2) "I have seen that everything has limits."

but your command is exceedingly broad

God's command always being true and perfect is spoken of as if God's command were an object that is very wide. Alternate translation: "but your command is without limits" or "but your command is eternal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:97

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Psalms 119:98

your commandments are always with me

Constantly thinking about God's commandments is spoken of as if the commandments were an object that the writer keeps with him always. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:99

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Psalms 119:100

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Psalms 119:101

I have kept my feet back from every evil path

Avoiding doing what is evil is spoken of as if it were avoiding walking on paths that are evil. Alternate translation: "I have avoided doing what is evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

kept my feet

Here "feet" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "kept myself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

observe your word

"obey your word" or "observe your commands"

Psalms 119:102

I have not turned aside from your righteous decrees

Continuing to obey God's righteous decrees is spoken of as if the writer has not physically turned away from the righteous decrees. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I always obey your righteous decrees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 119:103

How sweet are your words to my taste, yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

The writer delighting in what God says is spoken of as if God's words were food that tasted sweet to the writer. Alternate translation: "Your words are good and delightful!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:104

I gain discernment

The abstract noun "discernment" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "I learn to discern what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

therefore I hate every false way

Evil behavior is spoken of as if it were a false way or road. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:105

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path

These two phrases have similar meanings. They speak about God telling a person how to live as if the person were walking on a path and God's words were a light that helps the person see where to go. Alternate translation: "Your words tell me how to live my life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Your word

Here "word" represents all that God communicates to people.

Psalms 119:106

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Psalms 119:107

as you have promised in your word

"as you have promised to do"

Psalms 119:108

freewill offerings of my mouth

The writer speaks of his prayer as if it were a sacrifice that he is offering to God. Alternate translation: "my prayer as a sacrifice to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

of my mouth

Here "mouth" represents the whole person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 119:109

My life is always in my hand

This is an idiom that means the writer's life is always in danger. Alternate translation: "My enemies are often trying to kill me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I do not forget your law

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I always remember your laws" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 119:110

The wicked have set a snare for me

Wicked people trying to capture and kill the writer is spoken of as if they were hunters setting a trap to catch an animal. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The wicked

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "Wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

I have not strayed from your instructions

Not disobeying God's instructions is spoken of as if the writer has not walked away from God's instructions. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I obey your instructions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Psalms 119:111

I claim your covenant decrees as my heritage forever

The writer always cherishing and obeying God's decrees is spoken of as if the decrees are land or a possession that the writer will inherit. Alternate translation: "Your laws will belong to me forever" or "Your covenant decrees are like a heritage I will keep forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they are the joy of my heart

Here "heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "they make me joyful" or "I delight in them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 119:112

My heart is set on obeying

Here "heart" represents the writer's will. The phrase "heart is set" is an idiom. It is a way of saying the writer is determined. Alternate translation: "I am determined to obey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

to the very end

Possible meanings are 1) "every one of them" 2) "to the very end of my life" or 3) "to the very end of time"

Psalms 119:113

who have a double mind

A person who is not sincere and not fully committed to obeying God is spoken of as if the person has two minds. Alternate translation: "who are not completely committed to obeying you" or "who are insincere" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:114

my hiding place

God making the writer safe is spoken of as if God were a place where the writer could go and hide. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my shield

God protecting the writer is spoken of as if God were the writer's shield. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I hope in your word

Here "wait" means to wait expectantly. This has the idea of hope and trust. Alternate translation: "I trust in your word"

your word

Here "word" represents what God communicates to people.

Psalms 119:115

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Psalms 119:116

Sustain me by your word

"Give me strength as you said you would" or "Enable me to be strong as you promised"

and not be ashamed of my hope

Here "my hope" represents the writer's trust in God and his promises. This can be stated as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: "Do not disappoint me" or "Do not cause me shame by not doing what you promised to do"

Psalms 119:117

Support me

"Help me" or "Strengthen me"

Psalms 119:118

those people are deceptive and unreliable

Possible meanings are 1) "those people lie and no one can trust them" or 2) "those people make deceitful plans but they will fail"

Psalms 119:119

You remove all the wicked of the earth like slag

Slag is the waste or undesired leftovers in the process of refining gold or other metals. Yahweh removes the wicked people as if they were trash. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the wicked

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "the wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

like slag

"like trash" or "like waste"

Psalms 119:120

My body trembles in fear of you

Here "body" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I shake because I fear you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I am afraid of your righteous decrees

It is implied that the writer is afraid of God's righteous decrees because the writer knows that God punishes those who disobey his decrees. You can make the full meaning of this statement explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 119:121

do not abandon me to my oppressors

"do not allow people to oppress me"

Psalms 119:122

Guarantee the welfare of your servant

The writer speaks about himself as "your servant." Alternate translation: "Guarantee my welfare" or "Help and protect me, your servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

the proud

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "those who are proud" or "proud people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 119:123

My eyes grow tired as I wait

Here "eyes" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I grow tired because I wait and wait" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

for your salvation and for your righteous word

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "for you to save me as you promised to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your righteous word

"your righteous promise"

Psalms 119:124

Show your servant

The writer speaks about himself as "your servant." Alternate translation: "Show me" or "Show me, your servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as an adverb or adjective. Alternate translation: "that you faithfully love me" or "that you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:125

give me understanding

The abstract noun "understanding" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "enable me to understand what you want me to know" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:126

It is time for Yahweh to act

The writer is speaking to Yahweh in the third person. This can be stated in second person. Alternate translation: "It is time for you to act, Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

people have broken your law

This is an idiom. Here "have broken" means "disobeyed." This is a way of saying the people have disobeyed God's law. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:127

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Psalms 119:128

I carefully follow all your instructions

A person carefully obeying all of God's instructions is spoken of as if as if the instructions were leading a person and that person follows behind. Alternate translation: I carefully obey all of your instructions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

every path of falsehood

People doing what is evil is spoken of as if they are walking on the wrong path. Alternate translation: "all the bad ways some people live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:129

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Psalms 119:130

The unfolding of your words gives light

The writer speaks of Yahweh's words as if those words were fabric that is folded, and of the person who explains Yahweh's words as if they are unfolding that fabric. Alternate translation: "The explanation of your words gives light" or "When someone explains your words, they give light" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The unfolding of your words gives light

The writer speaks of Yahweh's words giving wisdom to a person as if his words were shining a light on them. Alternate translation: "The explanation of your words gives people wisdom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:131

I open my mouth and pant, for I long for your commandments

The writer speaks of his desire for Yahweh's commandments as if he were a dog panting for water. Alternate translation: "I earnestly long for your commandments" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:132

Turn to me

To turn towards someone means to pay attention to that person. Alternate translation: "Pay attention to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

love your name

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "love you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 119:133

Direct my footsteps

Here the word "footsteps" represents the writer as he is walking. He speaks of the way he lives, or his conduct, as if he were walking on a path. Alternate translation: "Direct me" or "Teach me how to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

do not let any sin rule me

The writer speaks of sin as if it were a person who has authority over him. Possible meanings are 1) "do not let me habitually commit any sin" or 2) "do not let sinful men rule me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 119:134

Redeem me from human oppression

The word "oppression" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "Save me from people who oppress others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:135

Let your face shine on your servant

Psalms 119:136

Streams of tears

The writer speaks of his many tears as if they were streams of water. Alternate translation: "Many tears" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

observe your law

"obey your law"

Psalms 119:137

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Psalms 119:138

covenant decrees

Other possible meanings are "testimonies" or "laws." See how you translated this in Psalms 78:5.

Psalms 119:139

Anger has destroyed me

This is an idiom. The phrase is an exaggeration for "I am extremely angry." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 119:140

has been tested very much

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I have tested your word many times" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your servant loves

The writer speaks of himself as if he were another person. Alternate translation: "I, your servant, love" or "I love" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:141

I am ... despised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People despise me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 119:142

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Psalms 119:143

distress and anguish have found me

The psalmist speaks of distress and anguish as if they were people. Alternate translation: "I have become distressed and anguished" or "my body and my mind are suffering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 119:144

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Psalms 119:145

with my whole heart

The psalmist speaks of his whole being as if it were only his heart. Alternate translation: "completely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 119:146

covenant decrees

Other possible meanings are "testimonies" or "laws."See how you translated this in Psalms 78:5.

Psalms 119:147

dawn of the morning

"before the sun first appears"

Psalms 119:148

My eyes are open before the night watches change

This is an idiom. In Hebrew culture, the night was usually divided into three "watches" or periods. Alternate translation: "I am awake all night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 119:149

in your covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "because you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:150

they are far from your law

"they have strayed from your law" or "they do not pay any attention to your laws"

Psalms 119:151

all your commandments are trustworthy

"I can trust your commandments"

Psalms 119:152

covenant decrees

Other possible meanings are "testimonies" or "laws." See how you translated this in Psalms 78:5

set them in place

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh's commands as if they were posts set in the ground. Alternate translation: "given them for people to obey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:153

Look on my affliction

The psalmist speaks of affliction as if it were an object that people could see. Alternate translation: "Look at how much I am suffering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:154

Plead my cause

"Defend me against those who accuse me"

keep me

"protect my life" or "give me life"

Psalms 119:155

Salvation is far from the wicked

God not saving a person is spoken of as if salvation were far from the person. The abstract noun "Salvation" can be stated as "save." Alternate translation: "You will certainly not save the wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:156

Great are your merciful actions

Here "great" means "many." Alternate translation: "You have shown mercy to people many times" or "You have done many merciful things"

as you always do

Another possible meaning is "because you do what is just."

Psalms 119:157

My persecutors

"Those who persecute me"

I have not turned from

This is an idiom. "I have not stopped obeying" or "I have not stopped believing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

covenant decrees

Other possible meanings are "testimonies" or "laws." See how this is translated in Psalms 78:5.

Psalms 119:158

the treacherous

The adjective "treacherous" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "treacherous people" or "those who betray me" or "my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

do not keep

"do not obey"

Psalms 119:159

See

"Look at me so you can see"

by your covenant faithfulness

Psalms 119:160

The essence of your word is truth

"Your word is completely true" or "Your word can be trusted"

Psalms 119:161

my heart stands in awe of your word

The psalmist speaks of the heart as if it could be amazed. The heart is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "I am amazed at your word" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 119:162

plunder

Possible meanings are 1) things that soldiers and robbers take from those they have defeated in battle or 2) things of great value or "treasure."

Psalms 119:163

hate and despise

These two words mean almost the same thing. Alternate translation: "hate very strongly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

falsehood

Possible meanings are this is a metonym for 1) "people who lie" or 2) "the false words that people say." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 119:164

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Psalms 119:165

nothing makes them stumble

Possible meanings are 1) "nothing makes them do wrong" or 2) "nothing causes them trouble."

Psalms 119:166

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Psalms 119:167

I observe your solemn commands

"I obey your solemn commands"

solemn commands

Other possible meanings are "testimonies" or "laws." See how you translated this in Psalms 119:2.

Psalms 119:168

I keep your instructions

"I obey your instructions"

Psalms 119:169

give me understanding into your word

The psalmist speaks of the ability to understand as if it were a solid object. Alternate translation: "help me understand your word" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:170

May my plea come before you

The psalmist speaks of the words he says in prayer as if they were people who want to speak to a king. Alternate translation: "May you hear my prayer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:171

May my lips pour out praise

The psalmist speaks of his lips as if they were a container and his praise a liquid that could be poured out. Here the word "lips" is a synecdoche which represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "I desire to praise you much" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 119:172

my tongue sing

The psalmist speaks of his tongue either 1) as if it were a person or 2) as a synecdoche for his whole being. Alternate translation: "me sing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 119:173

May your hand help me

The hand is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "Please help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

have chosen

"have chosen to obey"

Psalms 119:174

for your rescue

"you to rescue me"

your law is my delight

The abstract noun "delight" can be stated as a verb. "I very much enjoy obeying your law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 119:175

may your righteous decrees help me

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh's decrees as if they were a person who could help him. Alternate translation: "may I listen to your righteous decrees and so become wise and strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 119:176

I have wandered off like a lost sheep

The psalmist compares his disobedience to Yahweh to a sheep that has wandered away from the flock. Alternate translation: "I have left your way like a sheep that has left its flock" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

seek your servant

"because I am your servant, come and search for me"

Psalms 120

Psalms 120:intro-0

Psalm 120 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 120 is a psalm of deliverance from liars. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Fighting

The author did not want to fight, but the people he lived with wanted to fight him.

Psalms 120:1

General Information:

In my distress

"In my trouble" or "When I was in trouble"

Psalms 120:2

Rescue my life

Here the word "life" represents the person. Alternate translation: "Rescue me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

those who lie with their lips and deceive with their tongues

Here the phrases "their lips" and "their tongues" represent the people who speak lies and deceit. Alternate translation: "those who lie to me and try to deceive me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 120:3

How will he punish you, and what more will he do to you, you who have a lying tongue?

The writer asks this as a leading question to explain what God will do to liars. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "This is how God will punish you, and this is what he will do to you, you who have a lying tongue." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

you who have a lying tongue

Here "a lying tongue" represents the person who speaks lies. Alternate translation: "you who tell lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 120:4

He will punish you with the arrows of a warrior

The writer speaks of God severely punishing liars as if God were shooting them with arrows. Alternate translation: "He will punish you severely, as if he were shooting you with warrior's arrows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

sharpened over burning coals of the broom tree

This refers to how people forged the tip of the arrow in a fire. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that he sharpened over burning coals of the broom tree" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 120:5

I temporarily live in Meshech; I lived previously among the tents of Kedar

These two places were far away from each other. The writer is likely using the names metaphorically to represent living among cruel and barbaric people. Alternate translation: "It is as if I live in Meshech or among the tents of Kedar" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the tents of Kedar

This phrase represents the people of Kedar who live in those tents. Alternate translation: "the people who live in Kedar" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 120:6

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Psalms 120:7

I am for peace

"I want peace"

they are for war

"they want war"

Psalms 121

Psalms 121:intro-0

Psalm 121 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 121 is a worship psalm.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

God always watches over those who believe in him and protects them from harm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/believe.md]])

Psalms 121:1

General Information:

lift up my eyes

This expression means "look at" or "focus my attention on." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

From where will my help come?

The writer uses this question to focus attention on the source of his help. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I will tell you from where my help comes." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 121:2

My help comes from Yahweh

This is the answer to the previous question.

Psalms 121:3

General Information:

There is a shift here to the second person. This may mean 1) the writer begins speaking to the people of Israel or 2) the writer is quoting another person speaking to the writer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

your foot to slip

The slipping of a foot is associated with falling. Alternate translation: "you to fall" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he who protects you will not slumber

Here "slumber" is a metaphor for "stop protecting." The negative form strengthens the statement. Alternate translation: "he will always protect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

he who protects you

God

Psalms 121:4

the guardian

God

See

This word alerts us to pay attention to the important information that follows.

never slumbers or sleeps

These two words mean the same thing. Here to "slumber" is a metaphor for "stop protecting." The negative form strengthens the statement. Alternate translation: "will not stop protecting you" or "will always protect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 121:5

Yahweh is the shade at your right hand

Here "shade" refers to protection. Alternate translation: "God is beside you to protect you from things that would hurt you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

at your right hand

Here this expression means to be beside or near to the writer.

Psalms 121:6

The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night

The contrasting terms "day" and "night" refer to those extremes and everything in between. Alternate translation: "God protects you from the elements at all times" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

nor the moon by night

It is implies that "will not harm you" is implied here. The full meaning of this statement may be made clear. Alternate translation: "nor will the moon harm you by night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 121:7

your life

This refers to the writer. Alternate translation: "you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 121:8

General Information:

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Psalms 122

Psalms 122:intro-0

Psalm 122 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 122 is a psalm about Jerusalem.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Jerusalem

Jerusalem is an important city, the center of government and religious activities; so the author prays for peace for the city.

Psalms 122:1

General Information:

A song of ascents

Possible meanings are 1) "song people sang while going up to Jerusalem for a celebration" or 2) "song people sang while going up the steps into the temple" or 3) "song whose words are like steps." See how you translated this in Psalms 120:1

Psalms 122:2

Jerusalem, our feet are standing within your gates!

The writer briefly stops speaking to his audience and speaks directly to the city of Jerusalem. Jerusalem is spoken to as if it was a person who could hear the writer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

our feet are standing

Here "feet" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "we are standing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

within your gates

Here "gates" refers to the city. Alternate translation: "inside you, Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 122:3

General Information:

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Psalms 122:4

the name of Yahweh

Here "name" refers to Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 122:5

the house of David

Here "house" refers to the descendants of David. Alternate translation: "the descendants of David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 122:6

May those who love you have peace

This section states the content of the prayer that the writer wants his audience to pray. He asks them to speak directly to the city of Jerusalem, as if the city was a person who could hear them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 122:7

Connecting Statement:

This verse finishes the prayer that the writer wants his audience to pray. He asks them to speak directly to the city of Jerusalem, as if the city was a person who could hear them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

May there be peace within ... may they have peace within

These two phrases have the same meanings and are used together to strengthen each other. Alternate translation: "May the people in Jerusalem live in peace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

within the walls that defend you ... within your fortresses

Here Jerusalem is referred to by the fortress walls that protects it. The terms "walls" and "fortress" refer to the same thing. Alternate translation: "within Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 122:8

General Information:

In this section, the writer speaks directly to the city of Jerusalem, as if the city was a person who could hear them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

For the sake

"For the well-being"

May there be peace within you

"May the people in you live in peace"

Psalms 122:9

I will seek good for you

The abstract noun "good" can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: "I will pray that people treat you well"

Psalms 123

Psalms 123:intro-0

Psalm 123 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 123 is a psalm asking for deliverance from the contempt of proud people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

Just as a servant trusts his master to protect him, so the author is trusting God to stop proud people from insulting him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Psalms 123:1

General Information:

I lift up my eyes

Here the author refers to his eyes because that is the part of the body used for seeing. Alternate translation: "I look to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

enthroned

sitting on a throne and ruling as king

Psalms 123:2

as the eyes of servants ... as the eyes of a maid ... so our eyes look

These three phrases have similar meanings. The third phrase, about the Israelites, is being compared to how the servants and maids look to their masters and mistresses for help. In each case "eyes" refers to the whole person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

master's hand ... mistress's hand

Here "hand" refers to the provision for needs. Alternate translation: "master's provision ... mistress's provision" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

maid

servant girl

mistress

woman who has authority over servant girls

has mercy on us

The abstract noun "mercy" can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: "act mercifully toward us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 123:3

Have mercy on us

The abstract noun "mercy" can be stated as an action. See how you translated a similar phrase in Psalms 123:2. Alternate translation: "act mercifully toward us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

we are filled with humiliation

Here humiliation is spoken of as if it were something that could be fill up a person. "we are very disgraced" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 123:4

We are more than full

This idiom means that the amount is excessive, in a negative sense. Alternate translation: "We have had too much" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

of the scoffing ... and with the contempt

There two phrases have very similar meanings and are used together to emphasize how much they have been mocked by the people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

scoffing

"mocking" or "insults"

the insolent

This refers to the insolent people. Alternate translation: "rude and arrogant people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the proud

This refers to the proud people. Alternate translation: "the people who are proud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 124

Psalms 124:intro-0

Psalm 124 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 124 is a psalm of praise for God's delivering the Israelites from their enemy's attack. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh saves

God saved the Israelites from their enemy who wanted to completely destroy them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 124:1

General Information:

song of ascents

If Yahweh had not been on our side

This is the beginning of a statement about what could have happened but did not. Yahweh really was on their side. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

Psalms 124:2

if it had not been Yahweh who was on our side

This is the continuation of a statement about something that did not actually happen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

Psalms 124:3

then they would have swallowed us up alive

This is the end of a statement that begins with the words "If Yahweh had not been on our side" in Psalms 124:1 and continues with the words "if it had not been Yahweh who was on our side when men rose up against us" in Psalms 124:2. It describes a result that did not happen because Yahweh was actually on their side. Israel's enemies could not swallow them up alive. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

swallowed us up alive

This metaphor describes how the enemies could have attacked and killed the Israelites to how a fierce animal attacks a smaller animal and eats it. Alternate translation: "killed us all"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their anger raged against us

Here "their anger" refers to the enemies who were angry. Alternate translation: "they were very angry with us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 124:4

General Information:

In these two verses the author compares the enemies of Israel to a flood of water.

The water would have swept us away; the torrent would have overwhelmed us

This is another result of the situation described in Psalms 124:1 and Psalms 124:2. This did not happen because Yahweh was actually on their side. The water did not sweep the Israelites away, and the torrent did not overwhelm them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

The water would have swept us away

Here the enemies of the writer are spoken of as if they were a flood of water. Alternate translation: "Our enemies would have easily defeated us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the torrent would have overwhelmed us

Here the enemies of the writer are spoken of as if they were a flood of water that would have drowned the Israelites. Alternate translation: "our enemies would have overwhelmed us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 124:5

Then the raging waters would have drowned us

This is another result of the situation described in Psalms 124:1 and Psalms 124:2. This did not happen because Yahweh was actually on their side. The raging waters did not drown the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

the raging waters would have drowned us

Here the enemies of the writer are spoken of as if they were a raging river that would have drowned the Israelites. Alternate translation: "our enemies would have destroyed us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 124:6

torn by their teeth

The enemies are spoken of as if they were wild animals that would destroy the Israelites by eating them. Alternate translation: "destroyed as if we were eaten by wild animals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 124:7

escaped like a bird out of the snare of the fowlers

The writer describes his escape from the enemies as if he was a bird that had escaped from the snare of the hunters. Alternate translation: "escaped from our enemies as a bird escapes from the trap that hunters have set" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

snare

a small trap of string or wire made for catching small animals or birds

the snare has been broken

The plot of the enemies to catch the writer failed as if it was a snare that had broken. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 124:8

General Information:

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Psalms 125

Psalms 125:intro-0

Psalm 125 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 125 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

God protects good people. He will not allow the evil people to rule over the good people because they might make them do evil. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Psalms 125:1

General Information:

Those who trust in Yahweh are like Mount Zion, unshakable, forever enduring

People who trust in Yahweh are spoken of as if they they were Mount Zion. Mountains are unable to be moved. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 125:2

As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so Yahweh surrounds his people

Yahweh's protection is spoken of as if he was the mountains surrounding Jerusalem. Jerusalem was surrounded by several mountains, which protected it from attack. Alternate translation: "As the hills that surround Jerusalem protect it, so Yahweh protects his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

now and forever

Here, this phrase means "always." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 125:3

The scepter of wickedness

Here the scepter of wickedness represents the rule of wicked people. Alternate translation: "Wicked people" or "Wicked rulers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 125:4

Do good, Yahweh

This is a request. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, please do good things" or "Yahweh, I beg you to do good things"

are upright in their hearts

Here, "hearts" refers to their desires. Alternate translation: "desire to do the right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 125:5

turn aside

Refusing to obey Yahweh is spoken of as turning away from a good path. Alternate translation: "leave good and go" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their crooked ways

Here wicked ways are spoken of as if they were a path that is not straight. Alternate translation: "their wicked ways" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

lead them away

People are lead away in order to punish them. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "lead them away to punish them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 126

Psalms 126:intro-0

Psalm 126 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 126 is a psalm of praise for Yahweh bringing captives home.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Sorrow and joy

People may have sorrow now; but later it will turn into joy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/joy.md]])

Psalms 126:1

General Information:

restored the fortunes of Zion

"made Zion prosperous again"

Psalms 126:2

our mouths were filled with laughter

Laughing is spoken of as if their mouths were a container and their laughter was in it. It can be made clear that this laughter was a response to their joy. Alternate translation: "we laughed for joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

our tongues with singing

The verbs "were filled" can be stated clearly. Singing is spoken of as if their tongues were containers and singing was in them. Alternate translation: "our tongues were filled with singing" or "we sang songs of joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they said among the nations

"the people of the nations said among themselves." The pronoun is used before introducing what it references. This is very unusual.

Psalms 126:3

Yahweh did great things for us; how glad we were!

"How glad we were, because Yahweh did these great things for us!"

Psalms 126:4

General Information:

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Psalms 126:5

Those who sow in tears

"Those who weep as they sow"

Psalms 126:6

General Information:

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Psalms 127

Psalms 127:intro-0

Psalm 127 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 127 is a wisdom psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Blessings

God wants his people to have rest. It is a blessing to have many children. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/rest.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Psalms 127:1

General Information:

song of ascents

Psalms 127:2

to rise up early, to come home late

A person who works hard often has to wake up earlier in the morning and return home late at night.

eat the bread of hard work

This is an idiom. Bread often represents the food a person needs every day in order to live. Alternate translation: "work hard for your daily needs" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 127:3

heritage

property that a person can inherit from his ancestors. Children normally receive an inheritance from their parents. Inheritance goes from parents to children. This passage uses parents inheriting children from Yahweh as a metaphor for Yahweh being the only one who can give children. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 127:4

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one's youth

Arrows are very important to a warrior because they protect him in battle. Children are spoken of as if they are a warrior's arrow. Alternate translation: "Having many children will help to protect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 127:5

his quiver full of them

A quiver is a container for arrows. Having many children is spoken of as if the children were arrows in a quiver. Alternate translation: "a home full of children" or "many children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 128

Psalms 128:intro-0

Psalm 128 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 128 is a wisdom psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Respect

Those people who respect God will live well and have many children. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/life.md]])

Psalms 128:1

General Information:

Blessed is everyone who honors Yahweh

This phrase occurs in the passive voice to avoid implying that Yahweh is obligated to bless those who honor him. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will bless everyone who honors him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 128:2

What your hands provide

A man can be referred to by his hands because that is the part of the body he works with. Alternate translation: "What you provide" or "What you work for" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you will be blessed and prosper

The words "be blessed" and "prosper" share similar meanings and emphasize God's favor. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will bless you and prosper you" or "Yahweh will make you blessed and prosperous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 128:3

like a fruitful vine in your house

The wife is spoke of as a vine producing a lot of fruit. This implies that children are like fruit and the wife will have many children. Alternate translation: "very productive and give you many children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

your children will be like olive plants

Children are compared to olive plants because of the way they grow to surround something. Children will surround the table and make it full. Alternate translation: "you will have many children who will grow and prosper" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

around your table

This refers to the place where a family gathers to eat. Often, all those who eat a man's table are under his authority or control.

Psalms 128:4

the man will be blessed who honors Yahweh

This can be stated as an active verb. "Yahweh will bless the man who honors him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 128:5

all the days of your life

"throughout your lifetime"

Psalms 128:6

May peace be on Israel

"May Israel have peace"

Psalms 129

Psalms 129:intro-0

Psalm 129 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 129 is a psalm of deliverance from Israel's many enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh saves

Israel's enemies have always persecuted them but God has saved them from their enemies. He prays that this enemy will be destroyed with no one to wish them well. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 129:1

General Information:

Psalms 129:2

General Information:

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Psalms 129:3

The plowers plowed on my back

The cuts from a whipping are spoken of as the plow of a plowman. A farmer plowed deep lines into a field. Alternate translation: "My enemies have cut me deeply on my back" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they made their furrows long

This is a continuation of the plowing metaphor. The "furrow" is the line the farmer plowed. Alternate translation: "they made their cuts long" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 129:4

he has cut the ropes of the wicked

Israel is spoken of as being bound by evil people. Alternate translation: "he has freed us from our enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 129:5

May they all be put to shame and turned back

Yahweh is not explicitly mentioned as the one who does these things. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh shame them and defeat them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 129:6

May they be like the grass on the housetops that withers before it grows up

The psalmist speaks of his enemies dying and being few in number. He compares them to the little bit of grass that grows on the roof of a house and withers and is not enough to cut or bundle. Alternate translation: "May they die and may there be few of them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 129:7

that cannot fill ... together

These words finish the simile that begins in (Psalms 129:6). The psalmist speaks of his enemies dying and being few in number. He compares them to the little bit of grass that grows on the roof of a house and withers and is not enough to cut or bundle. "May they be like the grass, which cannot fill ... together" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 129:8

the blessing of Yahweh be on you

"Yahweh bless you"

Psalms 130

Psalms 130:intro-0

Psalm 130 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 130 is a psalm of praise that God forgives sins. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/forgive.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Forgive

God forgives sin and helps the sinner. So Israel should trust in God for his forgiveness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Psalms 130:1

General Information:

Out of the depths I

The author's sadness is spoken of as if it were a container. His sadness comes from the bottom of the container. Sadness is often spoken of as being a container that fills from the top to the bottom. Alternate translation: "Because I am very sad, I" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 130:2

let your ears be attentive

The ears represent Yahweh, but because the author knows that Yahweh hears everything, he is really asking for Yahweh to respond. Alternate translation: "please listen" or "please respond" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

to my pleas for mercy

The abstract noun "mercy" can be stated as "merciful." Alternate translation: "to my pleas and be merciful to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 130:3

who could stand?

The speaker uses this question to express the futility of thinking that anyone could stand in this situation. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "no one could stand." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

who could stand

"Stand" often represents escaping or surviving when someone attacks. In this case, it would be to escape from being being punished. Alternate translation: "no one could escape from your punishment" or "no one could survive your punishment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 130:4

General Information:

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Psalms 130:5

General Information:

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Psalms 130:6

My soul

"My soul" represents the psalmist. Alternate translation: "I" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

My soul waits

The psalmist is spoken of as if he were waiting on something with expectation. Alternate translation: "I hope" or "I trust" or "I desire for something" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

My soul waits ... more than watchmen wait for the morning

The psalmist speaks of his desire for the Lord to help him as being greater than the desire that those who work all night have for the morning to come. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

watchmen

These are men who guard towns or fields against enemies or robbers. Here it refers to men who have to stay awake at night doing this.

Psalms 130:7

Israel, hope in Yahweh

The people of Israel are spoken of as if they were a man. Alternate translation: "You people of Israel, hope in Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 130:8

who will redeem Israel from all his sins

The people of Israel are spoken of as if they were a man. Alternate translation: "who will redeem the people of Israel from all their sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 131

Psalms 131:intro-0

Psalm 131 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 131 is a wisdom psalm teaching trust in Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

This psalm focuses on the concept of trust. A quiet trust in Yahweh is best.

Psalms 131:1

General Information:

song of ascents

my heart is not proud or my eyes haughty

The heart and the eyes represent the person. Alternate translation: "I am not proud or haughty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I do not have great hopes for myself

Possible meanings are "I do not expect to do great things" or "I do not think I am great."

things that are beyond me

Things that are too hard for a person to understand are spoken of as if they are beyond the person or too far away from the person to be able to reach them. Alternate translation: "things that are too hard to understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 131:2

I have stilled and quieted my soul

The soul represents the person or his emotions. Being calm and peaceful is spoken of has having making one's soul still and quiet. Alternate translation: "I am calm and peaceful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my soul within me

The soul represents the person or his emotions. Alternate translation: "I" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a weaned child with his mother

The psalmist speaks of himself being content and resting as if he were a young child that no longer demands breast milk from his mother. Alternate translation: "content like a young child that no longer cries for breast milk but rests in his mother's arms" or "content and resting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 131:3

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Psalms 132

Psalms 132:intro-0

Psalm 132 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 132 is a royal psalm praising David. It might have been sung when David brought the ark to Jerusalem.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Ark

The Ark had been moved from one place to another several times. David wanted to make a permanent home for it. God had promised David that his son would be king after him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promise.md]])

Psalms 132:1

General Information:

for David's sake

"because of what happened to David"

call to mind

"remember" or "think about"

Psalms 132:2

the Mighty One of Jacob

This refers to God.

Psalms 132:3

He said

"King David said"

Psalms 132:4

I will not give sleep to my eyes or rest to my eyelids

Sleep and rest are spoken of as if they are things that can be given. Here eyes and eyelids represent the whole person. Alternate translation: "I will not allow my eyes to sleep or my eyelids to rest" or "I will not sleep or close my eyes and rest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 132:5

until I find a place for Yahweh

Building a place for Yahweh is spoken of as finding a place for him. Alternate translation: "until I build a place for Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the Mighty One of Jacob

This refers to God.

Psalms 132:6

we heard about it in Ephrathah

The word "it" probably refers to where God's sacred chest was. The phrase "in Ephrathah" probably refers to where they were when they heard about it. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "we who were in Ephrathah heard about where the sacred chest was" or "we in Ephrathah heard that the holy box was in Jaar" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

fields of Jaar

Jaar is probably another name for the city of Kiriath Jearim. This probably refers to the fields surrounding the city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 132:7

we will worship at his footstool

Worshiping God at the covenant box is spoken of as bowing at the feet of the king who is sitting on his throne. This communicates humility and submission to God. Alternate translation: "we will go to God's covenant box and worship him as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 132:8

Arise, Yahweh, to your resting place

The verb "come" can be stated clearly. "Arise, Yahweh, and come to your resting place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

your resting place

The place God chose for people to worship him is spoken of as if it were a place where he rests or lives eternally. Alternate translation: "the place where you stay" or "your tabernacle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you and the ark of your strength!

Possible meanings are 1) "come to the ark of your strength" or 2) "come, and make the ark of your strength come." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the ark of your strength

"the ark that shows your great power"

Psalms 132:9

May your priests be clothed with integrity

Integrity is spoken of as if it were clothing. Alternate translation: "May people recognize that your priests have integrity" or "I want people see how your priests always do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 132:10

For your servant David's sake

"Because of what happened to your servant David." See how you translated a similar phrase in Psalms 132:1.

do not turn away from your anointed king

Here "turning away" means to reject someone. Alternate translation: "do not abandon the king that you anointed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 132:11

I will place one of your descendants on your throne

Making a king's descendant become king in his place is spoken of as placing him on that king's throne. Alternate translation: "I will cause one of your descendants to rule Israel in your place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 132:12

sit on your throne

Ruling as king is spoken of as sitting on the throne. Alternate translation: "rule as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your sons

Here "your sons" represents the descendants of David that would become king. Alternate translation: "your descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 132:13

General Information:

"He", "my" and "I" refer to Yahweh and "her" refers to Zion. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Zion ... her

The author writes as though the city of Zion were a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

he has desired her for his seat

"Yahweh has desired Zion for Yahweh's seat." Here "seat" represents either 1) his throne where he would rule, or 2) the place where he would stay. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 132:14

her

The author writes as though the city of Zion (Psalms 132:13) were a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

my resting place

The place God chose for people to worship him is spoken of as if it were a place where he rests or lives eternally. Alternate translation: "the place where I stay" or "my tabernacle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 132:15

Connecting Statement:

God continues to speak about the city of Zion as if Zion was a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

will abundantly bless her

"will abundantly bless Zion"

will satisfy her poor with bread

Here "poor" refers to the poor people in Zion and "bread" probably represents food in general. Alternate translation: "will satisfy the poor people in Zion with food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 132:16

I will clothe her priests with salvation

Salvation is spoken of as if it is clothing. Possible meanings are 1) "I will cause the priests to behave in a manner worthy of ones whom I have saved" or 2) "I will save her priests" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 132:17

I will make a horn to sprout for David

God speaks of a powerful descendant of David as if he was the powerful horn of an animal. Alternate translation: "I will make a descendant of David become king after him" or "I will cause David to have a descendant who will be a powerful king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

set up a lamp for my anointed one

God speaks of causing David's descendants to continue to rule as king as if they were a lamp that would continue to shine. Alternate translation: "I will cause my anointed one's descendants to continue to rule as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my anointed one

"my chosen king" or "the king I have chosen"

Psalms 132:18

I will clothe his enemies with shame

Shame is spoken of as if it was clothing. This shame would result from losing in war. Alternate translation: "I will cause his enemies to be ashamed" or "I will cause his enemies to be defeated and ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his crown will shine

The crown represents his rule, and greatness is spoken of as shining. Alternate translation: "he will be a great king" or "his greatness will shine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 133

Psalms 133:intro-0

Psalm 133 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 133 is a wisdom psalm about harmony. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/wise.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Harmony

Harmony between relatives is refreshing and brings a blessings from God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Psalms 133:1

General Information:

song of ascents

Behold

This word is used to stress the importance of the statement that follows.

for brothers to live together

The relationships among fellow God's people is spoken of as if they were brothers. Alternate translation: "for God's people to live together peacefully as brothers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 133:2

It is like fine oil on the head

The goodness of unity among God's people is spoken of as if it were like the fine oil that was poured on Aaron's head. Alternate translation: "This unity is precious like the oil that was poured on Aaron's head" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 133:3

like the dew of Hermon

The goodness of unity among God's people is spoken of as it if it were refreshing like dew. Alternate translation: "refreshing like the dew of Hermon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Hermon

This is a mountain in Israel that has snow on its peak year-round.

Psalms 134

Psalms 134:intro-0

Psalm 134 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 134 is a temple psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Watchmen

The watchmen who work at night should praise God. Then he will bless them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Psalms 134:1

General Information:

all you servants of Yahweh

"all you who serve Yahweh"

Psalms 134:2

Lift up your hands

This is how people prayed or praised God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

to the holy place

Possible meanings are 1) "to the temple" or 2) "to the holy place in the temple."

Psalms 134:3

heaven and earth

The phrase "heaven and earth" here represents all things. Alternate translation: "everything in heaven and earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 135

Psalms 135:intro-0

Psalm 135 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 135 is a worship psalm focusing on worshiping God because his greatness.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

The people, priests and their helpers should praise God because he is so great. He defeated the Egyptians and led his people to the promise land. Idols have no power. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/priest.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Psalms 135:1

General Information:

Praise the name of Yahweh

Yahweh's name represents him. "Praise Yahweh" or "Praise him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 135:2

stand in the house of Yahweh

This represents serving Yahweh in his temple. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

our God

These words refer to Yahweh (Psalms 135:1).

Psalms 135:3

for it is pleasant to do so

"because we get pleasure from praising his name"

Psalms 135:4

Yahweh has chosen Jacob

"Jacob" here refers to his descendants, the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has chosen Jacob's descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Israel as his possession

The beginning of the sentence can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "he has chosen Israel to be his possession" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 135:5

that our Lord is above all gods

"I know that our Lord is above all gods." Being greater than something is spoken of as being above it. Alternate translation: "that our Lord is greater than all gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 135:6

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Psalms 135:7

bringing the wind out of his storehouse

A storehouse is a place where things are kept for future use. This imagery shows God's power to control the wind. Alternate translation: "causing the wind to blow by his power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 135:8

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Psalms 135:9

signs and wonders

These two words mean basically the same thing and refer to the miraculous troubles that God had caused in Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

into your midst, Egypt

The psalmist speaks as if the people of Egypt were listening to him. Alternate translation: "among you people of Egypt" or "among the people of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

against Pharaoh

"to punish Pharaoh"

Psalms 135:10

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Psalms 135:11

Sihon ... Og

These are the names of two men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 135:12

He gave us their land as an inheritance

God's gift of the land to the Israelites is spoken of as if it were inheritance from father to son. Alternate translation: "He gave us their land to have forever" or "He gave us their land to be ours forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 135:13

Your name

His name here represents his fame or reputation. Alternate translation: "Your fame" or "Your reputation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 135:14

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Psalms 135:15

General Information:

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Psalms 135:16

General Information:

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Psalms 135:17

General Information:

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Psalms 135:18

Those who make them are like them

Being ignorant and powerless is spoken of as being like idols, which cannot speak, see, hear, or breathe. Alternate translation: "Those who make them are stupid and powerless like their idols" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

as is everyone who trusts in them

"and so are those who trust in the idols"

Psalms 135:19

General Information:

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Psalms 135:20

General Information:

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Psalms 135:21

he who lives in Jerusalem

God is spoken of as if he lived in Jerusalem because the temple where the Israelites worshiped him was there. Alternate translation: "he whose temple is in Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 136

Psalms 136:intro-0

Psalm 136 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 136 is a worship psalm. It was written to be sung by two parts of the choir. One part would sing the first part of each of the lines and then the other part of the choir would sing the repeated refrain.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Israel blessed

God has blessed Israel throughout its history and taken care of the needy people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Psalms 136:1

General Information:

His covenant faithfulness endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "He remains faithful to his covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 136:2

the God of gods

the God who is greater than the gods that other people worship (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 136:3

General Information:

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Psalms 136:4

General Information:

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Psalms 136:5

by wisdom

That is, because he is wise.

Psalms 136:6

spread out the earth above the waters

The ancient Israelites thought that the earth's dry land was on top of the sea. Alternate translation: "placed the earth over the waters"

Psalms 136:7

great lights

This is a reference to the sources of light for the earth, especially the sun and the moon. Alternate translation: "the sun and the moon and the stars"

Psalms 136:8

to rule by day

The sun is spoken of as if it were a king. Alternate translation: "to mark the time of day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

His covenant faithfulness endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. See how you translated this in Psalms 136:1. Alternate translation: "He remains faithful to his covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 136:9

to rule by night

The moon, and stars are spoken of as if they were kings. Alternate translation: "to mark the time of night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 136:10

General Information:

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Psalms 136:11

from among them

"from among the people of Egypt"

Psalms 136:12

with a strong hand and a raised arm

Here "hand" and "arm" represent power. Alternate translation: "with great power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 136:13

the Sea of Reeds

The soldiers of Pharaoh drowned in the Sea of Reeds.

Psalms 136:14

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Psalms 136:15

overthrew Pharaoh

Here defeat is spoken of as if it were tipping someone over. Alternate translation: "defeated Pharaoh" or "defeated the king of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 136:16

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Psalms 136:17

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Psalms 136:18

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Psalms 136:19

Sihon

a man's name (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 136:20

Og

a man's name (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Psalms 136:21

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Psalms 136:22

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Psalms 136:23

called us to mind

"thought about us"

helped us in our humiliation

The condition of feeling shame is spoken of as if it were a place that the Israelites had been in. This is a reference to the many times when the Israelites' enemies had defeated them in battle and shamed them. Alternate translation: "cared when we were shamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 136:24

has given us victory over our enemies

Causing people to be victorious and defeat their enemies is spoken of as giving them victory, as if victory were an object that can be given. Alternate translation: "has made us victorious over our enemies" or "has made us able to defeat our enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 136:25

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Psalms 136:26

the God of heaven

"the God who lives in heaven" or "the God whom the heavenly beings worship"

Psalms 137

Psalms 137:intro-0

Psalm 137 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 137 is a psalm of mourning and vengeance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/avenge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Songs of Zion

The captives are told to sing songs of Zion there in Babylon but they felt too unhappy to want to sing. The army from Babylon was cruel when it destroyed Jerusalem and the people of Edom encouraged them to destroy Jerusalem. They prayed that God will be cruel to the people of Edom and Babylon.

Psalms 137:1

General Information:

By the rivers of Babylon

"Next to one of the rivers near Babylon"

we sat ... wept ... we thought

The writer does not include the readers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Psalms 137:2

we hung

The writer does not include the readers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

There on the poplars

Poplar trees do not grow in Israel. "Poplars" may here stand for all the trees in Babylon. Alternate translation: "On the trees in Babylon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 137:3

our captors required songs from us

"our captors required us to sing"

required us to be happy

"made us pretend to be happy"

one of the songs of Zion

This probably refers to songs that the Israelites had used in worship at the temple in Jerusalem.

Psalms 137:4

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Psalms 137:5

If I ignore the memory of you, Jerusalem

The writer speaks as if Jerusalem is listening to him. Alternate translation: "If I act as if I did not remember you, Jerusalem" or "If I try to forget you, Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

right hand

the hand most people use most often

Psalms 137:6

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Psalms 137:7

Call to mind

"Remember" or "Think about"

Call to mind, Yahweh, what the Edomites did

Here remembering what the Edomites did represents punishing them for what they did. Alternate translation: "Punish the Edomites, Yahweh, for what they did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the day Jerusalem fell

Jerusalem being captured by an enemy army is spoken of as if it had fallen. Who captured Jerusalem can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "the day Jerusalem was captured" or "the day the Babylonian army entered Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 137:8

General Information:

The psalmist addresses the people of Babylon as if they were there listening to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

Daughter of Babylon

This represents the city of Babylon and its people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

may the person be blessed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "may God bless the person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

pays you back for what you have done to us

The writer speaks of someone doing to others what they have done as if were payment. Alternate translation: "does to you what you did to us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 137:9

dashes your little ones against a rock

"smashes your babies' heads against rocks"

Psalms 138

Psalms 138:intro-0

Psalm 138 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Answered prayers

God answers prayers and he protects the psalmist from his enemies.

Psalms 138:1

General Information:

I will give you thanks with my whole heart

The heart here represents the emotions. Doing something sincerely or completely is spoken of as doing it with all one's heart. Alternate translation: "I will sincerely thank you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

before the gods

Possible meanings are 1) "in spite of the false idols that exist" or 2) "before the heavenly assembly," which means "in the knowledge of the angels in heaven."

Psalms 138:2

I will bow down

Bowing down is a symbolic action that represents worship and giving honor. Alternate translation: "I will worship you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

give thanks to your name

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "give thanks to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for your covenant faithfulness and for your trustworthiness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. The abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "because you are faithful to your covenant and you are worthy of people trusting you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your word

"what you have said" or "your commands and promises"

your name

Possible meanings are 1) "yourself" or 2) "your fame." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 138:3

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Psalms 138:4

your mouth

This expression stands for God himself. Alternate translation: "you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 138:5

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Psalms 138:6

Yahweh is high, yet he cares for the lowly

Yahweh is above all creation in power, position, and authority. Yet his interest is in those who are humble in spirit, servants to all. This is a simple contrast.

the proud he knows from far off

This expression probably means that God is not faithful to those who are proud. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 138:7

walk

live, exist

in the middle of danger

Being in danger is spoken of as being in a physical place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will reach out with your hand against the anger of my enemies

God is spoken of as if he will strike the enemies with his hand. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

anger of my enemies

The abstract noun "anger" can be stated as "angry." Alternate translation: "my enemies, who are angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 138:8

your covenant faithfulness, Yahweh, endures forever

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "you, Yahweh, remain faithful to your covenant forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the ones whom your hands have made

This expression probably refers to the nation of Israel.

your hands have made

God is spoken of as if he had physically used hands to create. Alternate translation: "you have created" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139

Psalms 139:intro-0

Psalm 139 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 139 is a psalm of praise.

Special concepts in this chapter

# God's care

God created the psalmist in his mother's womb and has taken care of him all of his life. No matter where he goes, God is always with him.

Psalms 139:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

"This is for the director of music to use in worship."

have examined

"have tested"

Psalms 139:2

when I sit down and when I get up

The psalmist uses these two actions to represent everything he does. Alternate translation: "everything I do" or "everything about me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 139:3

my path and my lying down

Here "path" stands for one's behavior. "My path and my lying down" together represent everything about the psalmist. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 139:4

before there is a word on my tongue

Here "word on the tongue" represents speech. Alternate translation: "before I say anything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139:5

Behind me and before me you surround me

This expression refers to God's presence everywhere.

place your hand upon me

This expression refers to guidance and help. Alternate translation: "you guide and help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139:6

too much for me

"too much for me to understand"

it is too high, and I cannot reach it

Being high and out of reach is an expression, in this case, about some knowledge that human beings cannot have. Alternate translation: "it is too difficult to understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139:7

Where can I go from your Spirit? ... Where can I flee from your presence?

These two questions are in parallel. The psalmist says that he cannot go away from God's presence. Alternate translation: "I cannot escape from your Spirit." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 139:8

if I make my bed in Sheol

"Making one's bed" refers to staying somewhere. Alternate translation: "even if I stay in Sheol" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139:9

If I fly away on the wings of the morning and go to live in the uttermost parts across the sea

The author uses exaggeration to explain that wherever he is, God is there too. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

If I fly away on the wings of the morning

In the ancient near east, the sun was often imagined as if it had wings which enabled it to fly across the sky. Alternate translation: "If the sun could carry me with itself across the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the uttermost parts across the sea

"very far away to the west"

Psalms 139:10

will hold on to me

"will help me"

Psalms 139:11

If I said, "Surely the darkness will cover me

The psalmist speaks of the night as if it were a blanket that could conceal him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139:12

The night would shine like the day

The night, which is dark, is spoken of as if it were bright with light. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139:13

You formed my inner parts

"Inner parts" refers to the interior organs of a person, but here the expression probably stands for the entire body. Alternate translation: "You made my entire body (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 139:14

My soul knows this very well

Here "soul" probably refers to the psalmist's innermost ability to be certain about God's love and guidance. The translator may, however, treat "soul" here as metonymy for the psalmist's mind and heart. Alternate translation: "I know this with all my heart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 139:15

intricately made

"made with great complexity"

the depths of the earth

This is probably a way of speaking about a mother's womb (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 139:16

all the days assigned to me were recorded in your book even before the first one happened

This expression implies that ancient Israelites imagined that God wrote down his plans in a book.

Psalms 139:17

How precious are your thoughts to me

"I consider your thoughts very important" or "Your thoughts are very valuable to me"

How vast is their sum!

"Your thoughts are so many."

Psalms 139:18

they would be more in number than the sand

This hyperbole means that the writer would be unable to count God's thoughts. Alternate translation: "there would be more than I could count" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Psalms 139:19

get away from me, you violent men

The psalmist is only pretending to speak directly to the violent men whom he has in mind. Translators may decide to express this command as a wish. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

Psalms 139:20

They rebel against you

"They rebel against your authority, God"

your enemies tell lies

"your enemies lie about you"

Psalms 139:21

Do I not hate those, Yahweh, who hate you? Do I not despise those who rise up against you?

These two sentences have similar meanings. The second one strengthens the thought in the first. Both of these questions actually make statements. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, I hate those who hate you! I despise those who rise up against you!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

rise up against

rebel against

Psalms 139:22

General Information:

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Psalms 139:23

Examine me

This is a request for God to tell the psalmist about any sinful thoughts that he may have. Alternate translation: "Please search me" or "I beg you to search me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Examine me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts

These two sentences have similar meanings. The second one strengthens the thought in the first. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 139:24

any wicked way

Here "way" stands for behavior. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the everlasting way

Here "way" refers to trust and obedience in God. Anyone who "walks" this way will have everlasting life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 140

Psalms 140:intro-0

Psalm 140 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 140 is a deliverance psalm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

He prayed that God would save him from his enemies who are lying about him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Psalms 140:1

General Information:

For the chief musician

This is for the director of music to use in worship."

Psalms 140:2

they cause battles

Here "battles" probably refers to conflict of any kind, including quarrels.

Psalms 140:3

Their tongues wound like serpents

People who cause conflict by what they say are spoken of as if they had tongues of serpents. Of course, snakes do not do damage with their tongues, but with their bites and especially with poison. Neither can a person make his tongue sharp. Instead, here the idea of a sharp tongue stands for speaking in a way to cause trouble. And the idea the snakes have sharp tongues stands for the fact that many of them have poison. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 140:4

the hands of the wicked

That is, the power of the wicked (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 140:5

have set a trap ... have spread a net ... have set a snare

The exact kinds of traps are less important than the idea that wicked and proud people are planning to make trouble for the psalmist. If your readers do not know much about different ways of trapping, you may need to reduce this to one line. Alternate translation: "have set a trap to catch me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 140:6

listen to my cries

This is a call for help. Alternate translation: "listen to me as I call to you now for help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 140:7

you shield my head in the day of battle

A person's head is in great danger during battle. Protecting the person's head represents protecting the whole person. Alternate translation: "you protect me when I go to war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

battle

Here "battle" probably stands for any kind of severe trouble (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 140:8

do not grant the desires of the wicked

"please do not allow the wicked to have what they desire"

the wicked

The adjective "wicked" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 140:9

raise their heads

This is a sign of being arrogant. Alternate translation: "are arrogant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

let the mischief of their own lips cover them

This is a prayer that God would make the evildoers suffer from the trouble that they caused by the things they said.

the mischief of their own lips

The trouble that they themselves caused by what they said. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

cover them

That is, stop them from causing any more trouble. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 140:10

Let burning coals fall on them; throw them into the fire

Images of fire stand for severe punishment for the wicked. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

bottomless pits

This is probably a reference to Sheol, the world of the dead.

Psalms 140:11

men of tongues

those who speak evil of others without cause (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

secure on the earth

"safe in this life"

may evil hunt down the violent man

Here evil is spoken of as if it were someone taking revenge on another person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 140:12

he will give justice to the needy

The abstract noun "justice" can be stated as "just." Alternate translation: "He will act in a just manner to help the needy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 140:13

to your name

This represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: "to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 141

Psalms 141:intro-0

Psalm 141 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 141 is a psalm of deliverance from his enemies and from sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's correction

The author prayed that God would keep him from sinning. He is glad to be corrected by good people. He asked God to show that he is right by destroying the evil leaders of the people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Psalms 141:1

General Information:

crying out

"asking you for help"

come quickly to me

The psalmist speaks as if Yahweh were a person who needed to come from another place to help him. What the psalmist wanted Yahweh to do can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "come quickly to help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Listen to me when I call

"Please hear me when I call" or "I beg you to hear me when I call"

Psalms 141:2

May my prayer be like incense

The psalmist asks Yahweh to accept and be pleased with his prayer the way he would accept and be pleased with incense. Alternate translation: "May the my prayer please you the way the sweet smell of incense pleases people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

my prayer

The psalmist wants Yahweh to be pleased with him because he is praying and because of the words of his prayer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my lifted hands

"the hands that I have lifted up." Lifted hands are a metonym for prayer. People lifted their hands when they prayed or praised Yahweh. See how you translated "lift up your hands" in Psalms 134:2.

be like the evening sacrifice

The means to be like the animal that was burned on the altar in the evening. The psalmist speaks as if he wants Yahweh to be as pleased with him as he is with those who bring animals to sacrifice. He wants Yahweh to be pleased because the psalmist is praying or because of the words of his prayer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 141:3

place a guard over my mouth

The psalmist speaks as if evil words were prisoners trying to escape from his mouth. Alternate translation: "please help me not to say things that are evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

place a guard over

"tell someone to guard"

guard the door of my lips

The psalmist speaks as if evil words were prisoners trying to escape from his mouth. Alternate translation: "please help me not to say things when I should not" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 141:4

participate in sinful activities

"do sinful deeds"

their delicacies

"their special foods"

Psalms 141:5

hit me

The psalmist speaks as if giving a rebuke were physically hitting someone. Alternate translation: "rebuke me" or "hit me so I will listen when he corrects me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

it will be a kindness to me

The abstract noun "kindness" can be translated with an adverb. Alternate translation: "he will be acting kindly to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

it will be like oil on my head

Possible meanings are that the psalmist speaks as if a person correcting him were putting oil on his head 1) to honor him. Alternate translation: "when he corrects me, I will know that the one who corrects me is doing a good deed to me" or 2) to make his head feel better. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

may my head not refuse to accept it

The head is a synecdoche for the person. The litotes can be translated as a positive statement. Alternate translation: "may I accept it gladly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

my prayer is always against their wicked deeds

The words "wicked deeds" are a metonym for the people who do the wicked deeds. Alternate translation: "I always pray that Yahweh will stop wicked people from doing evil deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 141:6

Their leaders will be thrown down

Possible meanings are 1) "Someone will throw their leaders down" or 2) "Their leaders will throw them down." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

cliffs

ground that goes straight down a long way

Psalms 141:7

our bones have been scattered

Possible meanings are 1) "people have thrown our bones around in different directions" or 2) as a result of the fall from the cliffs (141:6) "our bodies are broken and our bones lie in disorder."

Psalms 141:8

my eyes are on you

The eyes are a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "I am looking to see what you will do" or "I expect you to help me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

in you I take refuge

"I am asking you to protect me" See how "take refuge" is translated in Psalms 118:9. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my soul

The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 141:9

the snares that they have laid for me

The psalmist speaks of deceiving a good man so the good man will sin or so that the evil people can defeat him as if it were laying a trap for an animal. The word "snares" is a metonym for the people themselves. Alternate translation: "people who are looking for ways to harm me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

snares ... traps

Bible experts disagree on the exact meanings of these words. It would be best either to translate one of them with the word for a net or cage that contains the prey and the other as a rope or vine that catches the prey by the leg or neck or to translate both with the general word for "traps." See how these words are translated in Psalms 140:5.

from the traps of evildoers

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "and protect me from the traps that those who do evil have set" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 141:10

Let the wicked fall into their own nets

The psalmist speaks of evil people deceiving good people as if hunters were trapping animals. Alternate translation: "Let the wicked fall into the net traps they have made to trap other people" or "Let the bad things the wicked planned for the righteous happen to the wicked instead"

Psalms 142

Psalms 142:intro-0

Psalm 142 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 142 is a psalm of deliverance from his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

The psalmist is alone, and has many enemies surrounding him. Despite this, Yahweh will help him. Then, good people will join the author. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/good.md]])

Psalms 142:1

General Information:

A maschil

This may refer to a style of music. See how you translated this in Psalms 32:1.

cave

open place under the earth large enough for people to walk around in

I cry out for help to Yahweh ... I plead for Yahweh's favor

If these two lines are so much the same that the reader will get the wrong meaning, you can translate them as one line. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

with my voice

"using my voice" -

Psalms 142:2

pour out my lament before him ... I tell him my troubles

pour out my lament before him

The psalmist speaks of telling Yahweh why he is sad as if he were pouring all of a liquid out of a container. Alternate translation: "I tell him all about why I am sad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

tell him my troubles

"tell him about everything that makes me worry"

Psalms 142:3

my spirit is weak within me

"I am weak" or "I am extremely discouraged"

you know my path

"you know the path I should take." The psalmist speaks as if what a person does were a path that that person walked along. Alternate translation: "you know the way I should live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

In the way that I walk they have hidden a trap for me

The psalmist speaks of people wanting to harm him as if they were trying to trap an animal. Alternate translation: "They are making plans so that whatever I do they can harm me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 142:4

my life

This is a metonym for "me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 142:5

called out to you

This is a call for help. Alternate translation: "called to you now for help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my portion

Possible meanings are 1) "all I want" or 2) "all I need" or 3) "all I have."

in the land of the living

This idiom refers to a person being alive, as opposed to a person who is dead and in the place of the dead. Alternate translation: "while I am living" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Psalms 142:6

Listen to my call

This is a call for help. See how you translated this in Psalms 5:1. Alternate translation: "Listen to me as I call to you now for help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I have been brought very low

Possible meanings are 1) "I am very needy" and 2) "I am very weak." See how "we are very low" is translated in Psalms 78:8.

Psalms 142:7

Bring my soul out of prison

This is a request. The "soul" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "bring me out of prison" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

give thanks to your name

The word "name" is a metonym for the person. See how you translated this in Psalms 5:11. Alternate translation: "give thanks to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 143

Psalms 143:intro-0

Psalm 143 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 143 is a deliverance psalm. The author prays for deliverance from his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's help

The author prayed for help from Yahweh against his enemies because he is God's servant.

Psalms 143:1

General Information:

Hear my prayer

The words "my prayer" are a metonym for the person who is praying. See how these words are translated in Psalms 39:12. Alternate translation: "Listen to me as I pray to you" or "Be willing to do what I ask you to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 143:2

Do not enter into judgment

To "enter into judgment" is an idiom that means to pronounce judgment. Alternate translation: "Please do not judge" or "I beg you not to judge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your servant

The psalmist speaks of himself as if he were speaking of another person. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

in your sight no one is righteous

Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "in your judgment no one is righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 143:3

pursued my soul

Here the word "soul" represents the person. Alternate translation: "pursued me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

has crushed me to the ground

Defeating an enemy is spoken of as a heavy object crushing a lighter object on the ground. Alternate translation: "has completely defeated me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 143:4

My spirit is overwhelmed within me

"I am weak" or "I am extremely discouraged"

my heart despairs

"I no longer have any hope"

Psalms 143:5

call to mind

"think about"

your accomplishments

"all that you have accomplished" or "all the great things you have done"

Psalms 143:6

spread my hands out to you

What one does with one's body here is a metonym for the purpose of doing so. The Israelites would commonly pray while standing with their hands raised and spread out at their sides. Alternate translation: "pray to you with my hands lifted up at my sides" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my soul thirsts for you in a parched land

The psalmist speaks of wanting to be with God as if he were in a parched land and he also was about to die of thirst. Alternate translation: "I want to be with you the way a person in a parched land who is very thirsty wants water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my soul thirsts for you

The psalmist desires to know Yahweh. The intensity of his desire to know Yahweh is like one who is very thirsty. Alternate translation: "I long for you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my soul

The soul is a metonym for the person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

parched land

A land where everything has died because there is no water.

Psalms 143:7

my spirit faints

Here the "spirit" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "I am weak" or "I am very discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Do not hide your face from me

This is a request. "I beg you not to hide from me" or "Please, do not hide from me"

Do not hide your face from me

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh refusing to do what the psalmist asks as if Yahweh were refusing to even look at the psalmist. This litotes can be stated as a positive. Alternate translation: "Do not refuse to listen to me" or "Please listen to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

I will become like those who go down into the pit

Here the word "pit" refers to the place of the dead. This phrase is a euphemism for death. Alternate translation: "I will become just another dead person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Psalms 143:8

Let me hear your covenant faithfulness

"Cause me to hear of your covenant faithfulness" or "Tell me of your covenant faithfulness." The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "Let me hear of how you are faithful to your covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

in the morning

Possible meanings are 1) "in the morning," at the time many people thought was the best time to pray, or 2) "morning by morning," every day.

Show me

"Tell me"

the way where I should walk

The psalmist speaks of the way people live as if it were a path on which they walk. Alternate translation: "how you want me to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for I lift up my soul to you

Possible meanings are 1) "I pray to you" or 2) "I believe that you will guide and protect me."

Psalms 143:9

I flee to you to hide

Possible meanings are 1) "I flee to you so I can hide" and 2) "I flee to you so you will hide and protect me."

Psalms 143:10

to do your will

"to do what you want me to do"

lead me in the land of uprightness

Possible meanings are 1) "help me to live righteously" or 2) "may my life be free of trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the land of uprightness

Possible meanings are 1) this is a metaphor for righteous living or 2) "a level land," a metaphor for life free of trouble. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 143:11

for your name's sake

Yahweh's name represents his reputation and character. Alternate translation: "because of who you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 143:12

the enemies of my life

"the enemies who want to take my life"

In your covenant faithfulness cut off my enemies

"Show your covenant faithfulness by cutting off my enemies." The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: "Because you are faithful to your covenant, cut off my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the enemies of my life

"the enemies of my soul." My "life" may be understood as representing the speaker. Alternate translation: "my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 144

Psalms 144:intro-0

Psalm 144 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 144 is a worship psalm. It is the first worship psalm in a series consisting of the final seven psalms (Psalms 144-150).

Special concepts in this chapter

# Safety

Psalm 144 is a prayer for safety and prosperity for the nation of Israel.

Psalms 144:1

General Information:

my rock

Possible meanings are 1) "the one who keeps me safe" or 2) "the one who gives me strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle

The words "hands" and "fingers" are synecdoches for "me." If "war" and "battle" are the same word in your language, you can translate this as one line. Alternate translation: "who trains me for war and trains me for battle" or "who trains me for war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 144:2

my covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with anadverb. Possible meanings are 1) "the one who faithfully loves me" or 2) "the one who faithfully protects me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

my fortress ... take refuge

The psalmist uses many metaphors to emphasize that Yahweh will protect him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my high tower

David speaks of Yahweh as if he were a fortress that protects him from attack. Yahweh is the one who protects David from harm. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my shield

David speaks of Yahweh as if he were a shield that protects a soldier. Yahweh is the one who protects David from harm. See how this is translated in Psalms 18:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the one in whom I take refuge

Going to Yahweh for protection is spoken of as taking refuge in him. Alternate translation: "the one to whom I go so he will protect me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the one who subdues nations under me

"the one who enables me to defeat other nations"

Psalms 144:3

Yahweh, what is man that you take notice of him or the son of man that you think about him?

These questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: "Man is so small compared to everything else you have made that I am surprised that you take notice of man and that you think about the son of man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

man ... son of man

two words for human beings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 144:4

like a breath ... like a passing shadow

The writer compares humans to these thing to emphasize how short their lives are. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 144:5

Cause ... come down ... touch ... make

These words should probably be translated as requests, not commands, since the psalmist knows that God is greater than he is.

Cause the sky to sink

Possible meanings are 1) tear the sky open or 2) bend the heavens like a tree branch bends when someone walks on it or as one bends a bow before shooting arrows.

Psalms 144:6

Send ... scatter ... shoot ... drive

These should probably be translated as requests, not commands, since the psalmist knows that God is greater than he is.

in confusion

"so they do not know what to think or what to do"

Psalms 144:7

Reach out your hand from above; rescue me out of many waters

David speaks as if God were on land above a flood and had physical hands with which he could pull David out of a flood. The flood is a metaphor for the troubles caused by the "foreigners." Alternate translation: "You who are able to act, help me overcome my troubles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

from the hand of foreigners

Here "hand" refers to power. Alternate translation: "from the power of foreigners" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 144:8

Their mouths speak lies

Here the word "mouths" represent the people who speak. Alternate translation: "They speak lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

their right hand is falsehood

Possible meanings are 1) David speaks of the custom of raising the right hand to swear that what one is about to say in court is true, "they lie even when they swear to tell the truth," or 2) the "right hand" is a metaphor for power, "everything they have gotten, they have gotten by telling lies." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 144:9

new song

Possible meanings are 1) "a song no one has ever sung before" or 2) "a song I have never sung before."

Psalms 144:10

who give ... kings, who rescued

You may end a sentence at the end of Psalms 144:9 and start a new sentence here. "you. It is you who give ... kings. It is you who rescued"

David your servant

David speaks of himself as if he were someone else. "me, David, your servant"

from an evil sword

David speaks of evil people as if they were the swords they use as weapons. Alternate translation: "from evil people who were trying to kill him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 144:11

Rescue me and free me

"Please rescue me and free me"

from the hand of foreigners

Here "hand" refers to power. See how you translated these words in Psalms 144:7. Alternate translation: "from the power of foreigners" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Their mouths speak lies

The people are represented by their "mouths." See how you translated these words in Psalms 144:8. Alternate translation: "They speak lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

their right hand is falsehood

Possible meanings are 1) David speaks of the custom of raising the right hand to swear that what one is about to say in court is true, "they lie even when they swear to tell the truth," or 2) the "right hand" is a metaphor for power, "everything they have gotten, they have gotten by telling lies."See how you translated these words Psalms 144:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 144:12

like plants who grow to full size

healthy and strong

in their youth

the time when people develop

our daughters like carved corner pillars

"may our daughters be like carved corner pillars"

carved corner pillars

"beautiful posts that hold up the corners of a large house"

pillars, shapely like those of a palace

"pillars that are carved to make a palace beautiful"

Psalms 144:13

thousands and ten thousands in our fields

"thousands—even tens of thousands!—and fill up our fields" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Psalms 144:14

No one will break through our walls

"No one will be able to invade our city"

no outcry

Here the outcry is associated with a severe problem that causes the person to cry out. Alternate translation: "no one crying in pain" or "no one crying for help" or "no one calling out for justice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 144:15

General Information:

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Psalms 145

Psalms 145:intro-0

Psalm 145 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 145 is a worship psalm. This is the second in a series of worship psalms consisting of the final seven psalms (Psalms 144-150).

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

God is worthy of all praise. This is in part because he does such wonderful things for all who worship him.

Psalms 145:1

General Information:

extol you

"tell people how wonderful you are"

bless your name

The word "name" is a metonym for Yahweh himself. See how "may his glorious name be blessed" is translated in Psalms 72:19. Alternate translation: "bless you" or "do what makes you happy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 145:2

praise your name

The word "name" is a metonym for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "praise you" or "tell people how great you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 145:3

General Information:

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Psalms 145:4

your mighty actions

"the things you can do because you are strong"

Psalms 145:5

General Information:

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Psalms 145:6

General Information:

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Psalms 145:7

declare your abounding goodness

"tell others how very good you are"

Psalms 145:8

great in steadfast love

The psalmist speaks of great in steadfast love as if it were a physical object of which one could possess a large amount. The abstract noun "love" can be translated with the verb "love." Alternate translation: "loving your people without ceasing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 145:9

his tender mercies are over all his works

"people can see him showing mercy in everything he does"

Psalms 145:10

All you have made will give thanks

"All the people you have made will give thanks" or "It will be as if everything you have made will give you thanks"

Psalms 145:11

General Information:

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Psalms 145:12

General Information:

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Psalms 145:13

endures throughout all generations

"remains forever"

Psalms 145:14

supports all who are falling ... raises up all those who are bent over

The psalmist speaks of Yahweh encouraging people as if he were helping people who were physically weak. You may need to translate both lines using only one line. Alternate translation: "encourages those who are discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 145:15

The eyes of all wait

Here the word "eyes" represents those who watch and wait for Yahweh to act. Alternate translation: "Everyone watches and waits" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 145:16

You open your hand

"You generously provide"

satisfy the desire of every living thing

"you give everyone more than they need and as much as they want"

Psalms 145:17

Yahweh is righteous in all his ways

"People can see from everything that Yahweh does that he is righteous"

faithful in all he does

"and he is gracious in all he does" or "people can see from everything that Yahweh does that he is gracious"

Psalms 145:18

is near to all those who call to him

Here "is near" means "ready to help." Alternate translation: "is always ready to help all those who call to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to all who call to him in trustworthiness

The abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: "to all who tell only the truth when they pray" or "to all whom he trusts when they pray" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 145:19

General Information:

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Psalms 145:20

General Information:

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Psalms 145:21

My mouth will speak

Here the words "My mouth" represent the one speaking. Alternate translation: "I will speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

will speak out the praise of Yahweh

"tell everyone how good Yahweh is"

let all mankind bless his holy name

The word "name" is a metonym for Yahweh himself. See how "may his glorious name be blessed" is translated in Psalms 72:19. Alternate translation: "let all people bless him" or "let all people do what makes him happy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 146

Psalms 146:intro-0

Psalm 146 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 146 is a worship psalm. It is the third in series of seven worship psalms. (Psalms 144-150)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

Trusting people for protection is useless because they die. But God blesses everyone who trusts in him. He provides everything people need. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Psalms 146:1

General Information:

Praise Yahweh, my soul

Here "soul" represents the writer's inner being. The writer is commanding his inner being to praise Yahweh. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I will praise Yahweh with all my soul" or "I give praise to Yahweh with all my life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 146:2

with all my life

"until I die" or "while I live"

Psalms 146:3

in princes

Here "princes" represents all human leaders. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

in mankind, in whom there is no salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as "save." Alternate translation: "in any person because they cannot save you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

in mankind

"in humankind" or "in people"

Psalms 146:4

When a person's life's breath stops

This is a polite way to refer to someone dying. Alternate translation: "When a person dies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

he returns to the ground

This means that just as God made the first human, Adam, from the soil, so will a person's body decay and become soil again when he dies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 146:5

General Information:

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Psalms 146:6

Yahweh made heaven and earth

The words "heaven" and "earth" represent everything that exists in the physical universe. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

observes trustworthiness

The abstract noun "trustworthiness" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "remains trustworthy" or "remains faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 146:7

He executes justice

"He decides matters fairly"

for the oppressed

This nominal adjective can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "for oppressed people" or "for those whom other people oppress" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

to the hungry

This nominal adjective can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "to hungry people" or "to those who are hungry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 146:8

opens the eyes of the blind

Causing a blind person to see is spoken of as if Yahweh were opening the person's eyes. Alternate translation: "causes the blind to see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the blind

This nominal adjective can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "blind people" or "those who are blind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Yahweh raises up those who are bowed down

Yahweh helping someone is spoken of as if he were physically helping someone to stand up. Alternate translation: "Yahweh helps those who are discouraged" or "Yahweh helps those who are weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who are bowed down

This action is a sign of distress or mourning. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Psalms 146:9

he lifts up

God helping someone is spoken of as if he were physically lifting them up. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 146:10

your God, Zion

Here "Zion" represents all the people of Israel. The writer is speaking to the people of Israel as if they were there listening to him. Alternate translation: "your God, people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

for all generations

The words "will reign" are understood. Alternate translation: "will reign for all generations" or "will reign forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Psalms 147

Psalms 147:intro-0

Psalm 147 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 147 is a worship psalm. It is the fourth in a series of seven worship psalms. (Psalms 144-150)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's control

Yahweh has created everything and controls all of nature. He provides for the animals and people.

Psalms 147:1

General Information:

it is pleasant

The object may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "it is pleasant to sing praises" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

praise is suitable

"praise is fitting" or "praise is appropriate"

Psalms 147:2

General Information:

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Psalms 147:3

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds

The writer speaks of the people's sorrow and discouragement as if they were physical wounds, and of Yahweh encouraging them as if he were healing those wounds. Alternate translation: "He encourages those who are sad and helps them to heal from their emotional wounds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 147:4

General Information:

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Psalms 147:5

his understanding cannot be measured

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one can measure his understanding" or "his understanding has no limit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 147:6

Yahweh lifts up the oppressed

The writer speaks of Yahweh honoring those who are oppressed as if Yahweh were lifting them up from the ground. Alternate translation: "Yahweh honors the oppressed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he brings the wicked down to the ground

The writer speaks of Yahweh humiliating the wicked as if Yahweh were forcing them to lie on the ground. Alternate translation: "he humiliates the wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 147:7

with a harp

"while playing a harp"

Psalms 147:8

General Information:

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Psalms 147:9

animals and to the young ravens when they cry

"animals, and he gives food to the young ravens when they cry"

when they cry

"whey they chirp" or "when they call"

Psalms 147:10

He finds no delight in the strength of a horse

"Strong horses do not delight him"

the strong legs of a man

Possible meanings are 1) "strong legs" is a metonym that represents how swiftly a man can run. Alternate translation: "men who can run swiftly" or 2) "strong legs" represents the strength of the whole man. Alternate translation: "how strong a man is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Psalms 147:11

who hope in his covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be translated with and adjective. Alternate translation: "who trust him because he is faithful to his covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 147:12

Jerusalem ... Zion

The writer speaks to Jerusalem, which he also calls Zion, as if it were a person. The names of the city are metonyms for the people who live in it. Alternate translation: "people of Jerusalem ... people of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 147:13

For he strengthens the bars of your gates

The phrase "the bars of your gates" represent the city as a whole. Yahweh will make Jerusalem secure from enemy invasion. Alternate translation: "For he protects Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

he blesses ... among you

The writer speaks of those who live in Jerusalem as if they were Jerusalem's children. Alternate translation: "he blesses those who live in Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 147:14

He brings prosperity

"He brings peace." Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh causes the people who live in Jerusalem to prosper materially and financially or 2) the word translated as "prosperity" means "peace" and Yahweh keeps Jerusalem safe from enemy attack.

Psalms 147:15

his command runs very swiftly

The writer describes God's command as if it were a messenger that moves quickly to deliver God's message. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 147:16

He makes the snow like wool; he scatters the frost like ashes

These emphasize how easy it is for him to do these things. He covers the ground with snow as easily as a person covers something with a wool blanket. And, he removes the frost as easily as the wind blows ashes. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Psalms 147:17

He dispenses the hail like crumbs

Yahweh scatters hail as easily as a person would scatter bread crumbs. Alternate translation: "He dispenses the hail easily, as if it were crumbs" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

He dispenses

"He sends"

hail

small pieces of ice that fall from the sky like rain

who can withstand the cold he sends?

The writer uses this question to emphasize that it is difficult to endure the cold weather that Yahweh causes. Alternate translation: "no one can live in the cold he sends." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Psalms 147:18

He sends out his command and melts them

The writer speaks of Yahweh's command as if it were his messenger. The word "command" can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: "He commands the ice to melt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 147:19

He proclaimed his word to Jacob, his statutes and his righteous decrees to Israel

These two lines mean the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh gave his law only to Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

his statutes and his righteous decrees to Israel

The verbal phrase can be supplied from the previous line. Alternate translation: "He proclaimed his statutes and his righteous decrees to Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

his statutes and his righteous decrees

The words "statutes" and "righteous decrees," along with "word" in the previous line, all refer to the law of Moses. If your language does not have different words for these terms, you may combine the two lines into one, using either "Jacob" or "Israel" for the people who received them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Psalms 147:20

they do not know them

The other nations do not know Yahweh's decrees.

Psalms 148

Psalms 148:intro-0

Psalm 148 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 148 is a worship psalm. It is the fifth in a series of seven worship psalms. (Psalms 144-150)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

All creation, including humans, should praise God for his greatness.

Psalms 148:1

General Information:

Praise Yahweh, you in the heavens ... you in the heights

"Praise Yahweh, you in the heavens ... you in the sky." These two lines are parallel, with phrase "the heights" meaning the same thing as "the heavens" in the previous line. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Psalms 148:2

all his hosts

Psalms 148:3

Praise him, sun and moon

The writer speaks to the sun and moon as if they were people and commands them to praise Yahweh. Alternate translation: "Praise Yahweh, sun and moon, as people do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

praise him, all you shining stars

The writer speaks to the shining stars as if they were people and commands them to praise Yahweh. Alternate translation: "Praise Yahweh, shining stars, as people do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 148:4

Praise him, highest heaven

The phrase "highest heaven" is an idiom that refers to heaven itself. The writer speaks to heaven as if it were a person and commands it to praise Yahweh. Alternate translation: "Praise Yahweh, highest heaven, as people do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

you waters that are above the sky

The writer speaks to "the waters that are above the sky" as if they are people and commands them to praise Yahweh. The verbal phrase can be supplied from the previous line. Alternate translation: "praise him, you waters that are above the sky, as people do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

waters that are above the sky

The writer speaks of a place above the sky where water is stored and from which the rain comes.

Psalms 148:5

Let them praise the name of Yahweh

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "Let them praise Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they were created

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he created them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Psalms 148:6

he issued a decree that will never change

Possible meanings are 1) "he gave a command that is permanent" or 2) "he gave a command that they will not disobey."

he issued

"he gave"

Psalms 148:7

all ocean depths

This phrase represents every creature that lives in the depths of the oceans. Alternate translation: "all creatures in the ocean depths" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 148:8

fire and hail, snow and clouds, stormy wind

The writer speaks to these natural phenomena as if they are people and commands them to praise Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

stormy wind fulfilling his word

"stormy wind that does what Yahweh commands"

Psalms 148:9

Connecting Statement:

The writer continues to speak to things that are not human as if they were people and commands them to praise Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Psalms 148:10

Wild animals ... all livestock

Together these two phrases encompass all animals. Alternate translation: "all animals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 148:11

Connecting Statement:

The writer commands all people to praise Yahweh.

all nations

The word "nations" represents the people who live in those nations. Alternate translation: "people of every nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 148:12

young men and young women, elderly and children

The writer uses two merisms, one related to gender and one related to age, to represent every person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Psalms 148:13

the name of Yahweh, for his name alone

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, for he alone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his glory extends over the earth and the heavens

The writer speaks of Yahweh's greatness as his glory being high above earth and heaven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 148:14

He has lifted up the horn of his people

The writer speaks of strength as if it were the horn of an animal. Lifting up an animal horn was a symbolic action that represented military victory. Alternate translation: "He has made his people strong" or "He has given his people victory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

for praise from all his faithful ones

"so that all his faithful ones praise him"

the people near to him

The writer speaks of Yahweh loving his people as if his people were physically close to him. Alternate translation: "the people he loves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Psalms 149

Psalms 149:intro-0

Psalm 149 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 149 is a worship psalm. It is the sixth in a series of seven worship psalms. (Psalms 144-150)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Praise

The people of Israel should praise God and conquer the other nations.

Psalms 149:1

General Information:

The psalmist is speaking to all of God's people, so you should use the plural command form if your language has one. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

a new song

Possible meanings are 1) "a song you have never sung before" or 2) a song no one has ever sung before.

sing his praise

"praise him with songs"

Psalms 149:2

rejoice in the one who made them

Possible meanings are 1) "rejoice because he made them" or 2) "rejoice because the one who made them is good."

rejoice in their king

The words "their king" is likely a reference to God. Possible meanings are 1) "rejoice because he is their king" or 2) "rejoice because their king is good."

Psalms 149:3

praise his name

The word "name" is a metonym for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "praise him" or "tell people how great he is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

tambourine

Psalms 149:4

glorifies the humble with salvation

The abstract noun "salvation" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "glorifies the humble by saving them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the humble

This can be restated to remove the nominal adjective. Alternate translation: "those who are humble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Psalms 149:5

on their beds

The translation can make explicit that this refers to when a person lies down at night to sleep in a bed. Alternate translation: "as they lie down to sleep at night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Psalms 149:6

May the praises of God be in their mouths

The mouth represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "May they always be ready to praise God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

a two-edged sword in their hand

If swords are not known, use the name of a local weapon. The word "sword" is a metonym for being ready to fight in war. Alternate translation: "may there be a two-edged sword in their hand" or "may they always be ready to go to war for him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 149:7

the nations

The phrase "the nations" is a metonym for the people who live in the nations. Alternate translation: "the people of the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Psalms 149:8

chains

These are made of heavy metal and restrict the movement of prisoners.

shackles

a pair of chains or bands with a chain between that limits the movement of both a person's hands or feet.

Psalms 149:9

They will execute the judgment that is written

The abstract noun "judgment" can be stated as "judge." Alternate translation: "They will judge and punish the people of those nations as God wrote should be done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Psalms 150

Psalms 150:intro-0

Psalm 150 General Notes

Type of psalm

Psalm 150 is a worship psalm. It is last in a series of worship psalms. (Psalms 144-150)

Special concepts in this chapter

# Instruments

People should praise Yahweh with every type of musical instrument.

Psalms 150:1

General Information:

This focuses on praise or worship that is most commonly held in the temple. Parallelism is common in Hebrew poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Praise God in his holy place

God's temple was often referred to as his holy place. This was the most common place to go to worship God.

Psalms 150:2

his mighty acts

"the great things he has done." God's "mighty acts" can possibly mean 1) natural such as thunderstorms and earthquakes or 2) miraculous such as healings and great victories in battle.

Psalms 150:3

General Information:

This chunk focuses on praising or worshiping God with musical instruments and dance.

Psalms 150:4

tambourines

A tambourine is a musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be hit and with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Psalms 150:5

cymbals

two thin, round metal plates that are hit together to make a loud sound (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Psalms 150:6

General Information:

This verse is more than the end of this psalm. It is the closing statement for all of Book 5 of the Psalms, which starts at Psalm 107 and ends with Psalm 150.

everything that has breath

This is an exaggeration that calls on all people who are alive to praise God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

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Psalms

Psalms front

Psalms front:intro

Introduction to Psalms

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Psalms

What is the Book of Psalms?

How should the title of this book be translated?

When was the Book of Psalms written?

What are the Messianic psalms?

What are superscriptions in the Psalms?

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What are some important ways in which Yahweh is pictured in the Book of Psalms?

What is the importance of honor and shame in the Book of Psalms?

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Why do the ULB and UDB display the Book of Psalms as poetry, but some modern versions do not?

Why do some versions number the Psalms differently than others?

How should the translator view the terms Selah and Higgaion that occur in various psalms?

Psalms 1

Psalms 1:intro-0

Psalm 001 General Notes

Type of psalm

Special concepts in this chapter

# Blessed

# People who opposed Yahweh

Links:

Psalms 1:1

General Information:

who does not walk in the advice of the wicked

stand in the pathway with sinners

or sit in the assembly of mockers

Psalms 1:2

his delight is in the law of Yahweh

Yahweh

Psalms 1:3

General Information:

He will be like a tree ... fruit in its season

planted by the streams of water

that produces its fruit in its season

whose leaves do not wither

whatever he does will prosper

Psalms 1:4

The wicked are not so

but are instead like the chaff

Psalms 1:5

will not stand in the judgment

in the judgment

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous

Psalms 1:6

For Yahweh approves of the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish

the way of the righteous

the way of the wicked will perish

Psalms 2

Psalms 2:intro-0

Psalm 002 General Notes

Type of psalm

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphor

Links:

Psalms 2:1

General Information:

Why are the nations in turmoil, and why do the peoples make plots that will fail?

are the nations in turmoil

the nations

plots that will fail

Psalms 2:2

The kings of the earth take their stand together ... the rulers conspire together

take their stand together ... conspire together

Psalms 2:3

Let us tear off the shackles ... throw off their chains

Psalms 2:4

He ... the Lord

sits in the heavens

the Lord mocks them

Psalms 2:5

terrify them in his rage