Psalms 57:1

¶ To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave. Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until [these] calamities be overpast.

To the chief Musician {H5329}{H8764)}, Altaschith {H516}{H8686)}, Michtam {H4387} of David {H1732}, when he fled {H1272}{H8800)} from {H6440} Saul {H7586} in the cave {H4631}. Be merciful {H2603}{H8798)} unto me, O God {H430}, be merciful {H2603}{H8798)} unto me: for my soul {H5315} trusteth {H2620}{H8804)} in thee: yea, in the shadow {H6738} of thy wings {H3671} will I make my refuge {H2620}{H8799)}, until these calamities {H1942} be overpast {H5674}{H8799)}.

For the leader. Set to "Do Not Destroy." By David, a mikhtam, when he fled from Sha'ul into the cave: Show me favor, God, show me favor; for in you I have taken refuge. Yes, I will find refuge in the shadow of your wings until the storms have passed.

Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy, for in You my soul takes refuge. In the shadow of Your wings I will take shelter until the danger has passed.

Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me; For my soul taketh refuge in thee: Yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I take refuge, Until these calamities be overpast.

Commentary

Psalm 57:1 opens with a desperate yet confident plea from King David, penned during one of the most perilous periods of his life.

Context

The superscription to Psalm 57 provides crucial historical context: "To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave." This indicates David was in a life-threatening situation, likely hiding from King Saul's relentless pursuit, possibly in the cave of Adullam or En-gedi. The term "Altaschith" (meaning "Do not destroy") might be a musical instruction or a thematic reminder of God's preservation despite overwhelming danger. "Michtam" suggests a psalm of lasting value or an enduring inscription, reflecting the profound spiritual insights contained within.

Key Themes

  • Urgent Plea for Mercy: David's repeated cry, "Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me," underscores his profound distress and his absolute reliance on God's compassion during intense persecution. This isn't a casual request but a heartfelt, repeated entreaty for divine intervention.
  • Unwavering Trust: Despite his precarious circumstances, David declares, "for my soul trusteth in thee." This statement reveals the bedrock of his faith – not in his own strength or cunning, but in the unfailing character of God. His plea for mercy is rooted in an established relationship of trust.
  • Divine Refuge and Protection: The powerful imagery, "in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge," speaks to God's tender yet mighty protection. This metaphor, often used in scripture (e.g., Psalm 91:4), conveys security, comfort, and a safe haven from danger, much like a mother bird sheltering her young.
  • Endurance Through Calamity: David's resolve to remain in this divine refuge "until these calamities be overpast" demonstrates his understanding that trials are temporary. His faith provides strength to endure the present suffering, knowing God will ultimately bring him through.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase "shadow of thy wings" (betsel kenapheka) beautifully illustrates the concept of divine protection. The word for "wings" (kanaph) can also refer to the edge or corner of a garment, suggesting a covering or protective embrace. This imagery evokes a sense of intimacy and security, emphasizing God's personal and comprehensive care for those who trust Him.

Practical Application

Psalm 57:1 offers profound encouragement for anyone facing overwhelming difficulties or feeling pursued by life's "calamities." It teaches us that:

  • Prayer is Our First Resort: Like David, our immediate response to fear and trouble should be a fervent cry for God's mercy and intervention.
  • Trust is Essential: Even when circumstances are dire, anchoring our souls in God's faithfulness provides an unshakeable foundation. Our trust is not in the absence of trouble, but in the presence of God within the trouble.
  • God is Our Ultimate Refuge: We can find true safety and peace not in escaping problems, but in taking refuge under God's protective care, knowing that He is greater than any challenge we face.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 91:4

    He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth [shall be thy] shield and buckler.

  • Psalms 36:7

    How excellent [is] thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.

  • Psalms 17:7

    Shew thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust [in thee] from those that rise up [against them].

  • Psalms 17:8

    ¶ Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,

  • Psalms 61:4

    I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.

  • Psalms 63:7

    ¶ Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.

  • Psalms 69:13

    ¶ But as for me, my prayer [is] unto thee, O LORD, [in] an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation.
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