1 A Psalm of David. LORD, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto thee.
2 Let my prayer be set forth before thee [as] incense; [and] the lifting up of my hands [as] the evening sacrifice.
3 Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
4 Incline not my heart to [any] evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.
5 Let the righteous smite me; [it shall be] a kindness: and let him reprove me; [it shall be] an excellent oil, [which] shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also [shall be] in their calamities.
6 When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words; for they are sweet.
7 Our bones are scattered at the grave’s mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth [wood] upon the earth.
8 But mine eyes [are] unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute.
9 Keep me from the snares [which] they have laid for me, and the gins of the workers of iniquity.
10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I withal escape.
Overview of Psalm 141
Psalm 141 is a poignant prayer attributed to David, expressing a deep yearning for God’s guidance and protection. The chapter reflects themes of devotion, the struggle against temptation, and the desire for spiritual purity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in one’s spiritual life.
Structure and Literary Features
The chapter consists of 10 verses, structured as a prayer that emphasizes both supplication and confession. The use of parallelism, a common feature in Hebrew poetry, enhances its emotional depth and rhythmic quality.
Thematic Analysis
- Desire for Divine Presence:
The psalmist opens with a plea for God to hear his prayer, indicating a deep reliance on divine communication. This sets the tone for the entire chapter, highlighting the importance of a personal relationship with God.
- Watchfulness Against Sin:
David asks God to set a guard over his mouth and to keep watch over his heart. This reflects an awareness of the dangers of speech and thought, suggesting that both can lead to moral failure.
- Rejection of Evil:
The psalmist expresses a desire to avoid the company of the wicked and to reject their ways. This illustrates a commitment to righteousness and a longing for spiritual integrity.
- Acceptance of Correction:
David acknowledges the role of the righteous in providing correction, viewing it as a blessing rather than a burden. This highlights a humble attitude towards personal growth and accountability.
- Trust in God’s Justice:
The psalm concludes with a firm belief in God’s justice, expressing confidence that the wicked will ultimately be held accountable. This reflects a broader theological theme of divine retribution and hope for the faithful.
Verse-by-Verse Analysis
- Verse 1: “O Lord, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you!”
This verse establishes the urgency of the psalmist’s prayer, indicating a deep need for God’s immediate attention.
- Verse 2: “Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice!”
Here, the psalmist likens his prayer to a sacred offering, emphasizing its significance and the desire for it to be pleasing to God.
- Verse 3: “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!”
This verse highlights the psalmist’s awareness of the power of words and the need for divine protection against speaking ill.
- Verse 4: “Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity.”
David expresses a desire to remain steadfast and not be swayed by the temptations of the wicked.
- Verse 5: “Let a righteous man strike me; it is a kindness; let him rebuke me; it is oil for my head; let my head not refuse it.”
This verse reflects a willingness to accept correction, viewing it as a necessary part of spiritual growth.
- Verse 6: “When their judges are thrown over the cliff, then they shall hear my words, for they are pleasant.”
David expresses confidence that justice will prevail, and the truth of his words will be recognized in due time.
- Verse 7: “As when one plows and breaks up the earth, so shall our bones be scattered at the mouth of Sheol.”
This metaphor emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the consequences that follow, invoking imagery of destruction.
- Verse 8: “But my eyes are toward you, O God, my Lord; in you I seek refuge; leave me not defenseless!”
David reaffirms his trust in God as his protector, illustrating a deep reliance on divine strength.
- Verse 9: “Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me and from the snares of evildoers!”
This plea for protection against the schemes of the wicked underscores the psalmist’s awareness of spiritual warfare.
- Verse 10: “Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.”
The concluding verse encapsulates the theme of divine justice, expressing hope that the wicked will face the consequences of their actions while the righteous will be spared.
Conclusion
Psalm 141 serves as a profound reflection on the human condition, emphasizing the need for divine assistance in the face of temptation and moral challenges. Through its heartfelt prayers and vivid imagery, it encourages readers to seek God’s guidance and maintain a commitment to righteousness.
