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Psalms 59:1

To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David; when Saul sent, and they watched the house to kill him. Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me.

Psalms 59:1 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse "To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David; when Saul sent, and they watched the house to kill him. Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me." can be found in the Book of Psalms, specifically in Psalm 59. In this particular verse, David is expressing his plea to God for deliverance and protection from his enemies, particularly King Saul who sought to kill him. David, feeling vulnerable and threatened, turns to God for help and seeks His intervention in the face of danger. This verse serves as a reminder of the trust and faith David had in God's ability to safeguard him in times of trouble. Through his desperation and fear, David exemplifies the importance of turning to God in times of need and placing his trust in Him for protection and deliverance. This verse is a powerful depiction of David's faith and reliance on God in the midst of adversity.

Theological Overview

The verse begins with a call to the chief Musician, indicating that this Psalm is meant for public worship or performance. The term "Altaschith" is believed to mean "Do not destroy" in Hebrew, suggesting a plea for deliverance from destruction or calamity. The word "Michtam" is a term that scholars debate its exact meaning, but it is generally understood to refer to a poem of special significance or inscription. This particular Psalm is attributed to David and recounts a time when King Saul attempted to kill him. The psalmist earnestly implores God to deliver him from his enemies and to defend him against those who seek to harm him. This verse highlights the trust and reliance the psalmist has in God's protection amidst adversity and danger. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the believer's dependence on God for deliverance and protection in times of trial and opposition.

Psalms 59:1 in other translations

American Standard Version

[For the Chief Musician; [set to] Al-tashheth. [A Psalm] of David. Michtam; when Saul sent, and they watched the house to kill him]. Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: Set me on high from them that rise up against me.

World English Bible

Deliver me from my enemies, my God. Set me on high from those who rise up against me.

Douay-Rheims

Unto the end, for them that shall be changed, for the inscription of a title, to David himself, for doctrine,

Geneva Bible (1599)

To him that excelleth. Destroy not. A Psalme of David on Michtam. When Saul sent and they did watch the house to kill him. O my God, deliuer mee from mine enemies: defend me from them that rise vp against me.