Why does the psalmist suddenly shift from intense lament to a declaration of trust in God's care from birth?

The sudden shift in Psalm 22:9 from profound lament to a declaration of God's lifelong care serves a crucial theological and rhetorical purpose. It is a common pattern in biblical laments for the psalmist to recall God's past faithfulness as a basis for present hope and future deliverance. By remembering that God was intimately involved in his birth and instilled hope from infancy, the psalmist grounds his current plea in God's consistent character. This recollection is not a denial of his suffering but a powerful affirmation that the God who has always been faithful will not abandon him now. It provides a theological anchor, demonstrating that God's providence is not new, but has been present since conception and birth, thus providing a solid foundation for renewed trust amidst severe distress, echoing the principle found in Psalm 77:11.

Does "thou didst make me hope" imply that God forces trust upon an individual?

No, "thou didst make me hope" does not imply that God forces trust. Instead, it speaks to God's active and tender cultivation of trust within the psalmist from the earliest, most vulnerable stages of life. The imagery of an infant "upon my mother's breasts" signifies a period of absolute dependence and security. In this context, God's providential care—His provision, protection, and nurturing presence—naturally fosters a sense of security and reliance. It suggests that God provides the environment and the spiritual inclination for trust, gently drawing the individual into a relationship of dependence and confidence. It's a divine nurturing of faith, not a coercive imposition, much like a loving parent instills security in a child through consistent care.

22:8 22:8

Psalms 22:9

22:10 22:10

Bible Versions

But thou [art] he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope [when I was] upon my mother's breasts.

But thou art he that took {H1518} me out of the womb {H990}: thou didst make me hope {H982} when I was upon my mother's {H517} breasts {H7699}.

But you are the one who took me from the womb, you made me trust when I was on my mother's breasts.

Yet You brought me forth from the womb; You made me secure at my mother’s breast.

But thou art he that took me out of the womb; Thou didst make me trust when I was upon my mother’s breasts.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Verse Lookup

Cross-References

Psalms 71:6

By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother's bowels: my praise [shall be] continually of thee.
Isaiah 49:1

¶ Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far; The LORD hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name.
Isaiah 49:2

And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me;
Psalms 71:17

O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.
Matthew 2:13

¶ And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
Matthew 2:15

And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.
Psalms 139:15

My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, [and] curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

Bible Versions

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