O LORD
The term "LORD" in this context is translated from the Hebrew "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often vocalized as "Yahweh." This name signifies God's eternal existence and His covenantal relationship with His people. In the context of Psalm 3, David is invoking the personal and covenant-keeping God, emphasizing a deep, personal relationship and trust in the midst of adversity. This invocation sets the tone for the entire psalm, highlighting the psalmist's reliance on God as his ultimate protector and deliverer.

how my foes have increased
The Hebrew word for "foes" is "tsarar," which can mean adversaries or enemies. The phrase reflects a situation of escalating conflict and danger. Historically, this psalm is attributed to David during the time of Absalom's rebellion, a period when David faced not only external enemies but also betrayal from within his own family. The increase in foes signifies a growing threat, both numerically and in intensity, underscoring the gravity of David's predicament. This serves as a reminder of the trials believers may face, yet also points to the faithfulness of God amidst overwhelming odds.

How many rise up against me
The repetition of "how" emphasizes the magnitude of the opposition. The Hebrew verb "qum," translated as "rise up," conveys the idea of enemies actively positioning themselves against David. This is not a passive threat but an active rebellion. In the historical context of David's life, this rising up was not just a personal attack but a challenge to his God-given authority as king. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for the various challenges and spiritual battles believers encounter. It serves as a call to recognize the reality of opposition in the Christian life, while also trusting in God's sovereignty and deliverance.

Many say of me
This phrase highlights the multitude of voices and opinions that surround the psalmist, King David. In the Hebrew text, the word "many" is "רַבִּים" (rabbim), indicating not just a few, but a significant number of people. This reflects the widespread nature of the doubt and opposition David faced. Historically, this psalm is attributed to the time when David fled from his son Absalom, a period of great personal and political turmoil. The phrase underscores the isolation and pressure David felt, as even those who once supported him now questioned his standing with God.

'God will not deliver him.'
This statement is a direct challenge to David's faith and trust in God. The Hebrew word for "deliver" is "יְשׁוּעָה" (yeshuah), which means salvation or deliverance. The doubters are essentially saying that David's situation is beyond God's help, a sentiment that can be deeply discouraging. This reflects a common human experience where external circumstances seem to overshadow divine promises. In the broader scriptural context, this phrase echoes the taunts faced by many of God's servants throughout the Bible, reminding believers that faith often requires standing firm against skepticism and disbelief.

Selah
This term appears frequently in the Psalms and is thought to be a musical or liturgical marker, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or a musical interlude. The exact meaning of "Selah" is uncertain, but it invites the reader or listener to pause and consider the weight of what has just been said. In this context, "Selah" encourages a moment of contemplation on the reality of doubt and the challenge of maintaining faith in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder to pause and reflect on God's faithfulness, even when others question it.

But You, O LORD
The phrase "But You, O LORD," marks a pivotal contrast in the psalm. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His personal relationship with His people. This invocation of God's name signifies a shift from the psalmist's distress to a focus on divine intervention. Historically, this reflects the deep trust and reliance on God that characterized the faith of Israel, acknowledging Him as the ultimate authority and protector.

are a shield around me
The imagery of a "shield" in ancient times was a powerful symbol of protection and defense. In Hebrew, the word "magen" is used, which refers to a small, portable shield used in battle. This metaphor indicates God's encompassing protection, suggesting that He surrounds the believer on all sides, safeguarding them from harm. The historical context of warfare in the ancient Near East, where shields were essential for survival, underscores the psalmist's confidence in God's ability to protect him from his enemies.

my glory
The term "glory" in Hebrew is "kabod," which often denotes weightiness or significance. In this context, it signifies the honor and dignity that God bestows upon the psalmist. Rather than seeking glory from human achievements or status, the psalmist finds his true worth and honor in his relationship with God. This reflects a theological understanding that true glory comes from God alone, who elevates and dignifies His people.

and the One who lifts my head
The phrase "the One who lifts my head" is a vivid expression of restoration and encouragement. In ancient cultures, a bowed head was a sign of defeat or shame, while a lifted head symbolized victory, confidence, and renewed hope. The Hebrew verb "rum" conveys the action of raising or exalting. This imagery suggests that God not only protects but also restores the psalmist's dignity and hope, transforming his situation from despair to triumph. It highlights the personal and redemptive nature of God's intervention in the lives of His people.

I cried aloud
The phrase "I cried aloud" in Psalm 3:4 reflects a deep, earnest plea from the psalmist, King David, to God. The Hebrew root for "cried" is "קָרָא" (qara), which conveys a sense of calling out or proclaiming. This is not a silent prayer but a vocal expression of distress and dependence on God. Historically, this psalm is set during the time when David fled from his son Absalom, a period of intense personal turmoil and danger. The act of crying aloud signifies David's acknowledgment of his inability to handle the situation alone and his reliance on divine intervention. It is a reminder to believers that God hears our cries, no matter how desperate or loud they may be.

to the LORD
The use of "to the LORD" emphasizes the direct and personal relationship David has with God. The Hebrew term for "LORD" here is "יהוה" (Yahweh), the covenant name of God, which signifies His eternal presence and faithfulness. This is not a generic call for help but a specific appeal to the God who has revealed Himself to Israel and to David personally. In the conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the importance of a personal relationship with God, where believers can approach Him with confidence, knowing He is both sovereign and intimately involved in their lives.

and He answered me
The phrase "and He answered me" reflects the assurance and faith David has in God's responsiveness. The Hebrew root "עָנָה" (anah) means to respond or reply, indicating that God is not distant or indifferent but actively engaged with those who seek Him. This assurance of being heard is a recurring theme in the Psalms and serves as a source of comfort and strength for believers. It underscores the belief that God is attentive to the prayers of His people and responds according to His will and purpose.

from His holy mountain
"From His holy mountain" refers to Mount Zion, the location of the Ark of the Covenant during David's reign, symbolizing God's presence and rule. The Hebrew word for "holy" is "קֹדֶשׁ" (qodesh), denoting something set apart and sacred. This imagery conveys the idea that God's response comes from a place of authority and sanctity. For David, this was a reminder of God's sovereign power and His commitment to His covenant people. In a broader theological context, it points to the belief that God, though transcendent, is also immanent, actively involved in the world and in the lives of His followers. This provides believers with the assurance that God's help is both powerful and personal.

I lie down and sleep
This phrase reflects a profound trust in God. The Hebrew word for "lie down" is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which implies a sense of rest and security. In the ancient Near Eastern context, lying down to sleep was an act of vulnerability, as it meant relinquishing control and trusting in divine protection. The psalmist, traditionally understood to be David, expresses a deep confidence in God's safeguarding power, even amidst adversities. This trust is a recurring theme in the Psalms, where the faithful are encouraged to find peace in God's presence.

I wake again
The continuation of life upon waking is seen as a gift from God. The Hebrew root "עוּר" (ur) for "wake" suggests being roused or stirred. In the biblical worldview, waking up is not merely a natural process but a divine act of grace. Each new day is an opportunity granted by God, emphasizing His sovereignty over life and death. This perspective encourages believers to start each day with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose, acknowledging God's hand in their daily existence.

for the LORD sustains me
The word "sustains" comes from the Hebrew "סָמַךְ" (samakh), meaning to uphold or support. This conveys the idea of God as the ultimate source of strength and stability. In the historical context of David's life, this assurance of divine support was crucial, especially during times of personal and national crisis. Theologically, this phrase underscores the belief in God's providence and His active role in the lives of His people. It inspires believers to rely on God's sustaining power, trusting that He will provide for their needs and uphold them through life's challenges.

I will not fear
This phrase is a powerful declaration of trust and confidence in God. The Hebrew root for "fear" is "yare," which often denotes a sense of terror or dread. In the context of Psalm 3, David is expressing a profound trust in God that dispels fear, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Historically, David wrote this psalm during a time of great personal crisis, as he fled from his son Absalom. Despite the chaos surrounding him, David's faith in God's protection allows him to reject fear. This phrase serves as an encouragement for believers to place their trust in God, knowing that His presence and power are greater than any earthly threat.

the tens of thousands
This phrase emphasizes the magnitude of the opposition David faced. The Hebrew word "rebabah" is used here, which can mean "myriads" or "tens of thousands," indicating a vast number. In the historical context, David was not just facing a small group of adversaries but a large, organized force. This hyperbolic expression underscores the severity of the situation and highlights the miraculous nature of God's deliverance. For modern readers, it serves as a reminder that no matter how insurmountable our challenges may seem, God's power is sufficient to overcome them.

drawn up against me on every side
This phrase paints a vivid picture of being surrounded by enemies. The Hebrew word "sabab" means to encircle or encompass, suggesting a strategic military positioning. David's enemies were not only numerous but also strategically placed to ensure his defeat. This imagery reflects the intense pressure and danger David was under. In a broader scriptural context, this phrase can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual battles believers face. It reassures Christians that even when they feel surrounded by trials and adversities, God is their shield and protector, capable of delivering them from any peril.

Arise, O LORD!
The Hebrew word for "Arise" is "קוּם" (qum), which conveys a sense of action and intervention. In the context of ancient Israel, this plea is a call for God to stand up and take action on behalf of His people. It reflects a deep trust in God's power to intervene in human affairs. The phrase "O LORD" uses the sacred name of God, Yahweh, emphasizing a personal relationship and covenantal faithfulness. This invocation is a cry for divine presence and deliverance, echoing the Israelites' historical experiences of God rising to defend them against their foes.

Save me, O my God!
The Hebrew root for "Save" is "יָשַׁע" (yasha), which means to deliver or rescue. This plea is not just for physical salvation but encompasses spiritual and eternal deliverance. The personal pronoun "my" signifies an intimate relationship with God, highlighting the psalmist's reliance on God's personal intervention. The phrase "O my God" underscores a personal claim to God, reflecting the covenant relationship between God and His people. It is a declaration of faith, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of salvation.

Strike all my enemies on the jaw
The imagery of striking on the jaw is vivid and forceful, symbolizing a decisive defeat and humiliation of the enemies. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a blow to the jaw was a metaphor for breaking the power and arrogance of one's adversaries. This phrase reflects the psalmist's confidence in God's ability to subdue those who oppose His righteous cause. It is a call for divine justice, where the enemies of God's people are rendered powerless.

break the teeth of the wicked
The metaphor of breaking teeth signifies the removal of the wicked's ability to harm or devour. In biblical symbolism, teeth represent power and aggression. By asking God to "break the teeth," the psalmist is seeking the dismantling of the wicked's strength and influence. This request is rooted in the belief that God is a righteous judge who will ultimately triumph over evil. The term "wicked" refers to those who oppose God's will and oppress His people, and the psalmist's prayer is for their defeat and the establishment of divine justice.

Salvation belongs to the LORD
The word "Salvation" in Hebrew is "יְשׁוּעָה" (yeshu'ah), which signifies deliverance, rescue, or safety. In the context of the Old Testament, salvation often refers to God's deliverance of His people from physical danger or oppression. Here, it underscores the belief that ultimate deliverance, whether physical or spiritual, is solely the work of the LORD, "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God. This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and His exclusive power to save, reminding believers that no human effort or other deity can provide true salvation. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' reliance on God during times of distress, such as when David fled from Absalom, which is the context of this Psalm.

may Your blessing be on Your people
The term "blessing" in Hebrew is "בְּרָכָה" (berakah), which conveys a sense of divine favor and prosperity. In the biblical narrative, God's blessing is often associated with His covenant promises, providing not only material prosperity but also spiritual well-being and protection. The phrase "Your people" refers to the covenant community of Israel, God's chosen people, who are recipients of His promises and care. This part of the verse is a prayerful wish or declaration that God's favor and protection would rest upon His people, ensuring their well-being and success. It reflects a communal aspect of faith, where the well-being of the community is intertwined with God's favor.

Selah
The term "Selah" is a Hebrew word found frequently in the Psalms, though its exact meaning is uncertain. It is often thought to be a musical or liturgical marker, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or a musical interlude. In the context of this verse, "Selah" invites the reader or listener to pause and reflect on the profound truths just expressed: the sovereignty of God in salvation and His blessing upon His people. It serves as a moment to meditate on the assurance and peace that come from trusting in God's power and provision. Historically, this pause would have allowed the worshippers to internalize the message, reinforcing their faith and reliance on God.