You showed favor to Your land, O LORD
The opening phrase of Psalm 85:1, "You showed favor to Your land, O LORD," sets the tone for a psalm of gratitude and hope. The Hebrew word for "showed favor" is "ratsah," which conveys a sense of acceptance, delight, and goodwill. This word suggests a divine approval and blessing that God has bestowed upon His people. Historically, this favor can be seen in the context of Israel's return from exile, a time when God's mercy and grace were palpably experienced by the nation. The "land" here refers to the Promised Land, a central theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing God's covenant and faithfulness. The invocation of "O LORD" uses the sacred name Yahweh, emphasizing the personal and covenantal relationship between God and His people. This phrase reminds believers of God's sovereignty and His active role in the restoration and blessing of His chosen people.

You restored Jacob from captivity
The phrase "You restored Jacob from captivity" speaks to a historical reality and a spiritual truth. The Hebrew word for "restored" is "shuv," which means to return or bring back. This word is often used in the context of repentance and restoration, indicating a turning back to God and His ways. "Jacob" is a metonym for the nation of Israel, reflecting the patriarchal heritage and the collective identity of God's people. The "captivity" mentioned here likely refers to the Babylonian exile, a period of profound loss and longing for the Israelites. However, it also symbolizes any form of spiritual bondage or separation from God. The restoration from captivity is a powerful testament to God's redemptive power and His unwavering commitment to His promises. It serves as an encouragement to believers that no matter the depth of their trials, God's grace is sufficient to bring about renewal and freedom.

You forgave
The Hebrew root for "forgave" is "נָשָׂא" (nasa), which means to lift, carry, or take away. This word conveys the idea of God lifting the burden of sin from His people, an act of divine grace and mercy. In the historical context of Israel, forgiveness was not merely a legal pardon but a restoration of relationship with God. This forgiveness is a precursor to the ultimate forgiveness offered through Christ, who bore our sins on the cross, lifting them from us and reconciling us to God.

the iniquity
The term "iniquity" comes from the Hebrew word "עָוֹן" (avon), which refers to guilt or the consequences of sin. It implies a moral distortion or perversion. In the scriptural context, iniquity is not just the act of sinning but the inherent sinful nature and its effects on the individual and community. The forgiveness of iniquity signifies a profound cleansing and renewal, pointing to the transformative power of God's grace.

of Your people
"Your people" refers to the covenant community of Israel, chosen by God to be His special possession. This phrase underscores the relational aspect of God's dealings with humanity. In the broader biblical narrative, it foreshadows the inclusion of all believers as God's people through faith in Jesus Christ. The historical context reminds us of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, despite the people's repeated failures.

and covered
The Hebrew word for "covered" is "כָּסָה" (kasah), which means to conceal or hide. This term is often used in the context of atonement, where sins are covered by a sacrificial offering. The covering of sin signifies God's willingness to overlook transgressions and restore fellowship. It points to the ultimate covering provided by the blood of Christ, which fully atones for sin and grants believers righteousness before God.

all their sin
The word "sin" here is "חַטָּאָה" (chatta'ah), which denotes an offense or missing the mark. The phrase "all their sin" emphasizes the completeness of God's forgiveness. It is not partial or selective but encompasses every transgression. This comprehensive forgiveness is a testament to God's boundless mercy and love, offering hope and assurance to believers that no sin is beyond the reach of His grace. In the New Testament, this is fulfilled in the promise that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

You withheld all Your fury
This phrase reflects a profound moment of divine restraint and mercy. The Hebrew word for "fury" here is "chemah," which denotes a burning anger or wrath. In the context of the Old Testament, God's fury is often associated with His righteous judgment against sin. However, the withholding of this fury signifies a moment of grace and forgiveness. Historically, Israel experienced periods of divine wrath due to their disobedience, yet God’s covenantal love often led Him to withhold His full judgment, offering His people a chance for repentance and restoration.

You turned from Your burning anger
The phrase "turned from" is derived from the Hebrew word "shuv," which means to return or turn back. This indicates a change in direction, emphasizing God's willingness to relent from His anger. The "burning anger" is a translation of "charon aph," literally meaning "the burning of the nose," a vivid metaphor for intense anger. In the scriptural context, this turning away from anger is a testament to God's patience and long-suffering nature. It highlights the transformative power of repentance and intercession, as seen in the history of Israel, where leaders like Moses and prophets like Jeremiah interceded for the people, prompting God to turn from His anger and extend mercy.

Restore us
The Hebrew word used here is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which means to return or turn back. This plea for restoration is not just a physical return but a spiritual renewal. The Israelites often found themselves in cycles of disobedience and repentance, and this cry reflects their desire to return to a state of favor with God. Historically, this reflects the periods of exile and return, where the people of Israel longed for a restoration of their land and relationship with God.

O God of our salvation
This phrase emphasizes the recognition of God as the ultimate source of deliverance and salvation. The Hebrew word for salvation, "יְשׁוּעָה" (yeshuah), is closely related to the name Yeshua, or Jesus, in the New Testament, highlighting the continuity of God's saving work throughout the Bible. The Israelites understood that their salvation was not just from physical enemies but from spiritual bondage, a theme that resonates with the Christian understanding of salvation through Christ.

and put away Your indignation
The word "indignation" in Hebrew is "כַּעַס" (ka'as), which refers to anger or wrath. This plea is for God to turn away His righteous anger, which was often a response to the people's sin and rebellion. In the historical context, God's indignation was experienced through various judgments, such as invasions or exiles. Theologically, this reflects the need for repentance and the hope that God, in His mercy, will forgive and restore His people.

against us
This phrase personalizes the plea, acknowledging that the people themselves are the recipients of God's indignation due to their actions. It is a collective confession of guilt and a recognition of the need for divine intervention. In the broader scriptural context, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where disobedience led to consequences, but repentance could restore favor.

Will You be angry with us forever?
This phrase begins with a direct question to God, reflecting a deep yearning for reconciliation and restoration. The Hebrew word for "angry" here is "אָנַף" (anaph), which conveys a sense of intense displeasure or wrath. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' understanding of God's righteous anger in response to their disobedience and sin. The use of "forever" (עוֹלָם, olam) suggests a fear of perpetual separation from God's favor, highlighting the urgency and desperation in the plea. This question is not just about divine anger but also about the hope for God's enduring mercy and forgiveness, a theme that resonates throughout the Psalms and the broader biblical narrative.

Will You draw out Your anger to all generations?
The phrase "draw out" translates from the Hebrew "מָשַׁךְ" (mashak), meaning to prolong or extend. This suggests a concern that God's anger might not only affect the current generation but also future ones. The Israelites were acutely aware of the covenantal relationship with God, where the actions of one generation could impact the next. The mention of "all generations" (דּוֹר וָדוֹר, dor va-dor) underscores the communal and enduring nature of their relationship with God. It reflects a plea for divine intervention to break the cycle of sin and punishment, emphasizing the hope for a renewed relationship with God that transcends time and impacts future generations. This plea is rooted in the understanding of God's character as both just and merciful, a balance that is central to the biblical portrayal of God's dealings with humanity.

Will You not revive us again
The phrase "Will You not revive us again" is a heartfelt plea for spiritual renewal and restoration. The Hebrew root for "revive" is "חָיָה" (chayah), which means to live, to have life, or to restore to life. This word is often used in the context of bringing something back to its original vitality and strength. Historically, this plea reflects the Israelites' desire for God to restore them to a state of spiritual fervor and national prosperity after periods of decline or judgment. The use of "again" suggests a cyclical pattern of falling away and returning to God, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament. This phrase encourages believers to seek God's intervention for personal and communal revival, trusting in His power to renew and restore.

that Your people may rejoice in You?
The phrase "that Your people may rejoice in You" emphasizes the ultimate purpose of revival: the joy and satisfaction found in a restored relationship with God. The Hebrew word for "rejoice" is "שָׂמַח" (samach), which conveys a sense of gladness and delight. This joy is not merely an emotional response but a deep-seated contentment and fulfillment that comes from being in right standing with God. Historically, the Israelites experienced joy when they were aligned with God's will and experienced His blessings. This phrase underscores the idea that true joy is found not in external circumstances but in the presence and favor of God. It serves as a reminder for believers to seek joy in their relationship with God, knowing that He is the source of true and lasting happiness.

Show us Your loving devotion
The phrase "Show us Your loving devotion" calls upon God to reveal His steadfast love and mercy. The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" is "chesed," which encompasses kindness, loyalty, and covenantal love. This term is deeply rooted in the character of God as depicted throughout the Old Testament. It reflects a love that is not merely emotional but is committed and faithful, often associated with God's promises to His people. Historically, this plea for God's loving devotion would resonate with the Israelites, who experienced God's faithfulness through their deliverance from Egypt and His ongoing guidance and protection. In a broader scriptural context, this request is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where His loving devotion is both a promise and a source of hope.

O LORD
The use of "O LORD" in this verse is significant, as it translates to "Yahweh," the personal name of God revealed to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14). This name signifies God's eternal existence and His unchanging nature. It is a name that conveys authority, sovereignty, and a personal relationship with His people. In the historical context of the Psalms, invoking the name of Yahweh is an appeal to the God who has consistently acted in history to save and sustain His people. It is a call to the God who is both transcendent and immanent, who is above all yet intimately involved in the lives of His followers.

and grant us Your salvation
The phrase "and grant us Your salvation" is a petition for deliverance and restoration. The Hebrew word for "salvation" is "yeshuah," which means deliverance, rescue, or safety. This term is often used in the Old Testament to describe God's intervention in times of trouble, whether from physical enemies or spiritual distress. In the context of Psalm 85, this request for salvation is not just about physical deliverance but also spiritual renewal and peace. Historically, the Israelites would have understood this as a plea for God to restore them to a place of favor and blessing, especially after periods of exile or judgment. In a broader theological sense, this anticipates the ultimate salvation brought through Jesus Christ, who embodies God's saving grace and offers eternal life to all who believe. This phrase encapsulates the hope and assurance that God is both willing and able to save His people, providing a foundation for faith and trust in His redemptive power.

I will listen
The phrase "I will listen" indicates a posture of attentiveness and readiness to receive divine communication. In the Hebrew text, the word used here is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which means to hear intelligently, often with the implication of obedience. This suggests that the psalmist is not merely hearing but is prepared to act upon what is heard. In a historical context, listening to God was a central aspect of the Israelite faith, as seen in the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4), which calls for Israel to hear and obey the Lord. This phrase encourages believers to cultivate a heart that is open and responsive to God's voice, emphasizing the importance of active listening in one's spiritual life.

to what God the LORD will say
This phrase underscores the source of the message: "God the LORD." The Hebrew uses "אֱלֹהִים יְהוָה" (Elohim Yahweh), combining the general term for God with His covenant name, Yahweh. This dual reference highlights both God's universal sovereignty and His personal relationship with His people. Historically, the Israelites understood Yahweh as the God who delivered them from Egypt and established a covenant with them. The phrase invites believers to recognize the authority and intimacy of God's communication, reminding them that the Creator of the universe is also their personal Redeemer who speaks into their lives.

He will surely speak peace
The assurance "He will surely speak peace" reflects God's intention to bring shalom, a Hebrew word encompassing peace, completeness, and well-being. The certainty of this promise is emphasized by the Hebrew construction, which conveys an unwavering commitment from God. In the biblical narrative, peace is often associated with God's presence and blessing, as seen in the Aaronic blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). This phrase reassures believers that God's ultimate desire is to bring peace into their lives, encouraging them to trust in His promises and seek His peace amidst life's challenges.

to His people and His saints
The recipients of this peace are "His people and His saints." "His people" refers to the collective community of Israel, God's chosen nation. "His saints" (Hebrew: "חֲסִידָיו," chasidav) refers to those who are faithful and devoted to God. This distinction highlights both the corporate and individual aspects of God's relationship with His followers. Historically, the term "saints" has been used to describe those who live in covenant faithfulness, embodying God's values and commands. This phrase encourages believers to see themselves as part of a larger community of faith, called to live in holiness and devotion to God.

Let them not return to folly
The exhortation "Let them not return to folly" serves as a warning against reverting to foolishness or sin. The Hebrew word for folly, "כֶּסֶל" (kesel), often denotes a lack of wisdom or moral insight. In the biblical context, folly is contrasted with the wisdom that comes from fearing the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). This phrase calls believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to God, avoiding the pitfalls of sin and disobedience that lead away from His peace. It serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance in the faith, urging believers to continually seek God's wisdom and guidance in their lives.

Surely His salvation
The Hebrew word for "salvation" here is "יְשׁוּעָה" (yeshu'ah), which signifies deliverance, rescue, or safety. In the context of Psalm 85, this salvation is not merely physical but spiritual, pointing to God's ultimate plan of redemption for His people. Historically, the Israelites often experienced God's salvation through deliverance from their enemies, but this verse foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who provides eternal salvation. The assurance in the word "surely" emphasizes the certainty and faithfulness of God's promise to save His people.

is near
The phrase "is near" suggests immediacy and accessibility. In Hebrew, "קָרוֹב" (qarov) conveys proximity, both in time and space. This reflects the intimate relationship God desires with His people, where His presence and help are always close at hand. In the broader biblical narrative, this nearness is fulfilled in the incarnation of Christ, God coming near to humanity in the person of Jesus. It also encourages believers to live with an awareness of God's constant presence and readiness to act on their behalf.

to those who fear Him
The "fear" of the Lord, "יִרְאָה" (yirah) in Hebrew, is a profound reverence and awe for God, recognizing His holiness, power, and authority. It is not a fear that repels but one that draws believers into a deeper relationship with God, marked by obedience and worship. Throughout Scripture, fearing God is associated with wisdom and blessing. This phrase underscores that God's salvation is intimately connected with a heart posture that honors and respects Him, aligning with the biblical principle that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10).

that His glory may dwell in our land
The word "glory," "כָּבוֹד" (kavod) in Hebrew, refers to the weightiness and splendor of God's presence. In the Old Testament, God's glory was often manifested in the tabernacle and temple, signifying His dwelling among His people. The desire for His glory to "dwell" in the land reflects a longing for God's presence to be evident and transformative in the community and nation. This phrase anticipates the New Testament revelation of God's glory in Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers, making them temples of God's presence. It inspires a vision of a society where God's character and kingdom values are manifest.

Loving devotion
The Hebrew word here is "chesed," which is often translated as "lovingkindness" or "steadfast love." It signifies a deep, covenantal love that is loyal and enduring. In the context of the Old Testament, "chesed" is a defining characteristic of God's relationship with Israel, reflecting His unwavering commitment and mercy. This term invites believers to reflect on the depth of God's love, which is not based on human merit but on His divine promise and faithfulness.

Faithfulness
The Hebrew term "emet" conveys truth, reliability, and stability. It is often associated with God's nature, emphasizing His trustworthiness and the certainty of His promises. In a world where human faithfulness can falter, God's "emet" stands as a pillar of hope and assurance. This word encourages believers to trust in God's unchanging nature and His commitment to fulfill His word.

Have joined together
The imagery here suggests a harmonious union, as if two separate entities have come together in agreement or partnership. This phrase evokes the idea of reconciliation and unity, not only between divine attributes but also in the relationship between God and humanity. It is a powerful reminder of the peace and harmony that can be achieved when divine love and truth are embraced.

Righteousness
The Hebrew word "tsedeq" refers to justice, rightness, and moral integrity. It is a key attribute of God's character and His expectations for His people. In the biblical context, righteousness is not merely about legalistic adherence to laws but encompasses a holistic way of living that reflects God's nature. This term challenges believers to pursue a life that aligns with God's standards and to seek justice in their interactions with others.

Peace
The Hebrew word "shalom" is rich with meaning, encompassing not just the absence of conflict but a state of wholeness, completeness, and well-being. "Shalom" is a gift from God, often associated with His presence and blessing. It is a vision of the world as it should be, where relationships are restored, and creation is in harmony. This word inspires believers to be peacemakers, working towards reconciliation and the flourishing of all creation.

Have kissed
This phrase paints a vivid picture of intimacy and affection, suggesting a close and loving relationship. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a kiss was a sign of respect, allegiance, and reconciliation. Here, it symbolizes the perfect harmony between divine attributes and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. It is a beautiful depiction of the ultimate reconciliation between God and humanity through Christ, where justice and mercy meet in perfect unity.

Truth sprouts from the earth
The Hebrew word for "truth" here is "emet," which conveys a sense of firmness, stability, and faithfulness. In the biblical context, truth is not merely factual accuracy but a reflection of God's character and His covenantal faithfulness. The imagery of truth "sprouting" suggests a natural, organic emergence, akin to plants growing from the soil. This can be seen as a metaphor for the manifestation of God's truth in the world, emerging from the ground up, symbolizing the renewal and restoration of God's people. Historically, this reflects the post-exilic hope of Israel, as they anticipated a renewal of their land and society in alignment with God's truth.

and righteousness looks down from heaven
The word "righteousness" in Hebrew is "tsedeq," which encompasses justice, rightness, and ethical conduct. It is often associated with God's character and His divine order. The phrase "looks down from heaven" suggests a divine oversight and blessing. Righteousness is portrayed as a heavenly attribute that oversees and governs earthly affairs. This dual imagery of truth emerging from the earth and righteousness descending from heaven illustrates a harmonious interaction between divine and human realms. It reflects the biblical theme of God's kingdom being established on earth as it is in heaven, where divine justice and truth meet and transform the world. This verse, therefore, inspires believers to live in a way that aligns with God's truth and righteousness, fostering a world that reflects His divine order and peace.

The LORD will indeed provide what is good
This phrase begins with the assurance of divine provision. The Hebrew word for "provide" is "natan," which means to give or bestow. This reflects God's generous nature and His willingness to supply the needs of His people. Historically, this assurance would resonate deeply with the Israelites, who often faced periods of scarcity and relied on God's provision, as seen in the manna provided during their wilderness journey (Exodus 16). The phrase "what is good" underscores the quality of God's gifts, aligning with James 1:17, which states that every good and perfect gift is from above. This reflects a theological understanding that God’s provisions are not only sufficient but also beneficial and perfect for His people.

and our land will yield its harvest
The phrase "our land" refers to the Promised Land, a central theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing God's covenant and blessings to Israel. The Hebrew word for "land" is "erets," which can mean earth or territory, emphasizing the physical and spiritual inheritance given to the Israelites. The "harvest" signifies abundance and prosperity, a direct result of God's blessing. In an agrarian society, a bountiful harvest was a sign of divine favor and faithfulness. This promise of productivity and fruitfulness is a recurring theme in the Bible, often linked to obedience and faithfulness to God's commandments (Deuteronomy 28:1-14). Theologically, this can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual fruitfulness in the lives of believers, as they remain connected to God, the source of all blessings.

Righteousness
The Hebrew word for "righteousness" is "צֶדֶק" (tzedek), which conveys a sense of justice, rightness, and moral integrity. In the biblical context, righteousness is not merely about legalistic adherence to laws but embodies a relational fidelity to God's covenant. It is a divine attribute that reflects God's character and His expectations for His people. In this verse, righteousness is personified, suggesting that it actively participates in God's redemptive work. This righteousness is not just a passive quality but a dynamic force that leads and guides, emphasizing the transformative power of living in alignment with God's will.

will go before Him
The phrase "will go before Him" indicates a preparatory action, akin to a herald announcing the arrival of a king. In ancient times, a king's path was prepared by clearing obstacles and ensuring a smooth journey. Here, righteousness is depicted as paving the way for God's presence and action. This imagery resonates with the prophetic tradition, where the coming of the Lord is often preceded by a call to repentance and moral renewal. It underscores the idea that God's presence is accompanied by a call to holiness and justice, setting the stage for His divine intervention.

to prepare the way
The concept of preparing the way is deeply rooted in the prophetic literature, notably in Isaiah 40:3, which speaks of making straight paths for the Lord. This preparation involves both spiritual and ethical dimensions, calling for a transformation of heart and society. It suggests that the manifestation of God's kingdom requires active participation in aligning one's life with His purposes. The preparation is not merely external but involves an inner readiness to receive and respond to God's leading. It is a call to anticipate God's movement with expectation and obedience.

for His steps
The term "steps" refers to the actions and movements of God as He engages with His creation. In the Hebrew context, God's steps are often associated with His intervention in history, bringing about salvation and justice. This phrase implies that God's actions are deliberate and purposeful, guided by His righteousness. It invites believers to trust in the divine plan, recognizing that God's ways are higher than human ways. The imagery of steps also suggests a journey, indicating that God's work is ongoing and progressive, leading His people toward the fulfillment of His promises.