Psalms 57:1

KJV

¶ 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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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)}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
Psalm 57:1 is a profound and urgent lament from David, penned during a period of extreme vulnerability while he was fleeing from King Saul and hiding in a cave. Despite the dire circumstances, David expresses an unwavering confidence in God's character, repeatedly appealing for divine mercy. His soul's complete reliance on the Lord is declared as he seeks refuge "in the shadow of thy wings," trusting that God's protection will endure until the overwhelming "calamities" have definitively passed. This verse beautifully encapsulates the dynamic of desperate human need met by steadfast divine faithfulness, illustrating how profound trust can anchor the soul even in the direst circumstances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 57 is situated within Book Two of the Psalter (Psalms 42-72), a collection frequently characterized by themes of lament, unwavering trust, and the declaration of God's kingship. It is one of several "Michtam" psalms (e.g., [Psalm 16](/psalms/16 "Psalm 16 - A Michtam of David"), [Psalm 56](/psalms/56 "Psalm 56 - A Michtam of David")), which often begin with deep distress but pivot powerfully to confident praise and a declaration of God's enduring faithfulness. Psalm 57 itself follows this transformative pattern, moving from an urgent plea in verse 1 to a triumphant declaration of God's exaltation "above the heavens" by [Psalm 57:5](/psalms/57-5 "Psalm 57:5 - Be Exalted, O God"), and culminating in a resolute vow to praise God among the nations in [Psalm 57:7-11](/psalms/57-7-11 "Psalm 57:7-11 - David's Vow of Praise"). This structural movement highlights the profound shift in the psalmist's perspective, from an immediate focus on personal danger to an unwavering gaze upon the immutable character and sovereignty of God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The superscription, "when he fled from Saul in the cave," provides the crucial historical backdrop for Psalm 57. This refers to a specific, harrowing period in David's life when King Saul, consumed by jealousy and paranoia, relentlessly pursued him with the intent to kill him. David was forced to live as a fugitive, often seeking temporary refuge in remote wilderness areas and natural caves, such as the [cave of Adullam](/1_samuel/22-1 "1 Samuel 22:1 - David in the Cave of Adullam") or the caves of [En-gedi](/1_samuel/24-3 "1 Samuel 24:3 - Saul in the Cave of En-gedi"). These caves, while offering concealment, were also places of extreme vulnerability, limited resources, and constant threat. Culturally, the concept of refuge under "wings" was a common ancient Near Eastern motif, frequently associated with powerful deities or benevolent rulers providing protection, or with a mother bird sheltering her vulnerable young. The terms "Altaschith" ("Do not destroy") and "Michtam" ("golden psalm" or "inscription") in the superscription suggest either a musical instruction for preservation or a thematic reminder of the psalm's enduring value and God's protective hand in preserving His anointed.
* **Key Themes:** Psalm 57:1 introduces several profound theological and narrative themes that resonate throughout the Psalter and the broader biblical narrative. The urgent, repeated cry for **mercy** ("Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me") underscores David's profound distress and his absolute dependence on God's compassion, a theme echoed in numerous psalms of lament (e.g., [Psalm 6:2](/psalms/6-2 "Psalm 6:2 - Have Mercy on Me, O Lord")). This fervent plea is immediately grounded in **unwavering trust** ("for my soul trusteth in thee"), revealing that David's request is not born of mere desperation, but of an established, deep relationship of faith in God's character. The powerful imagery of **divine refuge and protection** ("in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge") speaks to God's tender yet mighty care, a metaphor vividly portrayed in passages like [Psalm 91:4](/psalms/91-4 "Psalm 91:4 - Under His Wings"). Finally, David's resolve to remain in this divine haven "until these calamities be overpast" highlights the theme of **endurance through temporary suffering**, recognizing that even the most overwhelming trials have an appointed end under God's sovereign hand, a truth also found in [Psalm 30:5](/psalms/30-5 "Psalm 30:5 - Weeping May Last for a Night")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Merciful (Hebrew, _ḥānan'_):** This verb (H2603), repeated twice as an imperative ("Be merciful unto me"), signifies to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior, to favor, or to bestow. It implies a free, unmerited act of kindness and compassion from a superior to an inferior. David's repetition emphasizes the depth of his distress and the urgency of his plea, appealing directly to God's inherent character as a compassionate and gracious deliverer. It is not a demand, but a humble, fervent entreaty for divine intervention based on God's nature, not David's merit.
* **Trusteth (Hebrew, _ḥāsāh'_):** This verb (H2620) means "to flee for protection" or "to confide in." It describes a complete reliance, a seeking of shelter and security in something or someone. When David declares, "my soul trusteth in thee," he is expressing an absolute commitment of his entire being (his _nephesh_, H5315) to God as his only safe haven. This trust is not a passive hope but an active, deliberate act of seeking shelter under God's protection, even when physical circumstances offer no security.
* **Wings (Hebrew, _kānāp̱'_):** While literally meaning "wings" (H3671) as of a bird, this word also carries the connotation of the "edge" or "skirt" of a garment, or even a "corner." In the context of divine protection, it evokes the powerful imagery of a mother bird sheltering her young under her wings, providing warmth, safety, and concealment from predators. It also suggests the covering or protective embrace of God, a place of intimate security where one can hide from danger. This metaphor beautifully conveys both the tenderness and the strength of God's protective presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave."**: This superscription is integral to understanding the psalm's immediate context and purpose. It identifies the psalm's musical direction ("To the chief Musician," H5329, H8764; "Altaschith," H516, H8686, meaning "Do not destroy," possibly a tune or a thematic instruction for preservation), its genre ("Michtam," H4387, a "golden psalm" or "inscription" of lasting value), its author ("David," H1732), and its precise historical context (David's flight, H1272, H8800, from King "Saul," H7586, while hiding in a "cave," H4631). This context immediately frames the psalm as a desperate prayer born out of extreme personal danger and vulnerability.
* **"Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me:"**: This is David's urgent, repeated plea. The doubling of the imperative "Be merciful" (H2603, _ḥānan_) underscores the intensity of his distress and the depth of his need. It is a fervent cry for divine compassion and intervention, acknowledging God (H430, _ʼĕlôhîym_) as the sole source of deliverance from his perilous situation. This repetition is not redundant but emphasizes the fervent, heartfelt nature of his prayer, a desperate appeal for God's unmerited favor.
* **"for my soul trusteth in thee:"**: This clause provides the foundation and justification for David's plea. His request for mercy is not a shot in the dark but rooted in an established, deep-seated trust (H2620, _ḥâçâh_) in God. His "soul" (H5315, _nephesh_), representing his entire being—his life, mind, and will—is committed to God. This trust is the bedrock of his faith, enabling him to appeal to God even when circumstances seem hopeless and human solutions are exhausted.
* **"yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge,"**: This powerful metaphor vividly describes the nature of David's trust and the protection he seeks. "The shadow" (H6738, _tsêl_) "of thy wings" (H3671, _kânâph_) evokes the image of a mother bird sheltering her young, signifying intimate, tender, and comprehensive protection. David actively chooses to "make his refuge" (H2620, _ḥâçâh_) there, indicating a deliberate act of seeking shelter and security under God's sovereign care, rather than relying on his own strength or cunning. It is an intentional act of faith to abide in God's protective presence.
* **"until [these] calamities be overpast."**: This final clause expresses David's understanding of the temporary nature of his suffering and his confident expectation of God's ultimate deliverance. The "calamities" (H1942, _havvâh_), meaning destructions, ruins, or mischiefs, are overwhelming, but David's faith provides endurance. He knows that God's protection is not merely for the moment but will sustain him until the danger has definitively "overpast" (H5674, _ʻâbar_), implying a confident hope in a future resolution brought about by God's intervention.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 57:1 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message and emotional impact. The most striking is **Repetition**, seen in David's fervent cry, "Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me." This doubling emphasizes the intensity of his distress, the urgency of his plea, and his absolute dependence on divine compassion. It serves as a powerful rhetorical strategy to convey the depth of his need and the earnestness of his prayer. **Metaphor** is powerfully employed in the phrase "in the shadow of thy wings," which vividly portrays God as a protective, nurturing, and all-encompassing refuge, much like a mother bird shielding her young. This imagery conveys both the tender care and the immense power of God's presence. The **Superscription** itself, though a common feature in the Psalms, functions as a crucial literary device, providing immediate historical and contextual grounding that deepens the reader's understanding of David's desperate situation and the authenticity of his faith. Finally, the verse exemplifies the initial movement of a **Lament Psalm**, which typically begins with a cry of distress, moves to an expression of trust, and often concludes with a vow of praise, demonstrating a movement from desperation to confidence in God's ultimate deliverance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 57:1 profoundly illustrates the theological truth that God is both merciful and a steadfast refuge for His people, particularly in times of extreme distress. David's repeated plea for mercy underscores God's character as the compassionate One who hears the cries of the afflicted, while his declaration of trust highlights the essential human response of faith. This trust is not a naive optimism but a deliberate act of anchoring one's soul in the unchangeable nature of God, even when circumstances are chaotic and life-threatening. The imagery of taking refuge "in the shadow of thy wings" speaks to God's intimate, personal, and comprehensive protection, reminding us that true security is found not in the absence of trouble, but in the abiding presence of God within the trouble, until He brings us through.

* [Psalm 91:1-4](/psalms/91-1-4 "Psalm 91:1-4 - Dwelling in the Secret Place of the Most High")
* [Psalm 61:1-4](/psalms/61-1-4 "Psalm 61:1-4 - A Rock That Is Higher Than I")
* [Isaiah 26:3-4](/isaiah/26-3-4 "Isaiah 26:3-4 - Perfect Peace for Those Who Trust in the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 57:1 offers profound encouragement and a practical model for believers navigating their own "calamities." David's immediate and fervent cry for mercy teaches us that prayer should be our first and most persistent resort when facing fear and overwhelming difficulties. His unwavering declaration, "for my soul trusteth in thee," reminds us that our faith is not merely a theological concept but the very anchor of our being, capable of holding us steady even when the world around us is in turmoil. To "make our refuge in the shadow of thy wings" is an active choice to seek God's presence, protection, and comfort above all else, recognizing that He is our ultimate safe haven. This psalm encourages us to endure with hope, knowing that our trials, however severe, are temporary and that God, in His faithfulness, will bring them to an end. It calls us to cultivate a deep, abiding trust in God's character, allowing His mercy and power to overshadow our fears and uncertainties, transforming our lament into a song of confident expectation and steadfast hope.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "calamities" or overwhelming fears are you currently facing, and how might David's desperate plea for mercy inform your own prayers?**
* **In what practical ways can you actively "make your refuge" in God's "shadow of wings" when you feel vulnerable or pursued by life's challenges, rather than relying on your own strength?**
* **How does understanding God's character as both merciful and trustworthy strengthen your ability to endure difficult seasons, knowing that your trials, however intense, will eventually "be overpast" by His sovereign hand?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "Altaschith" and "Michtam" in the superscription?**

Answer: "Altaschith" (אַל־תַּשְׁחֵת, _ʾal-tašḥēṯ_) literally means "Do not destroy." It is most likely a musical instruction, indicating the tune to which the psalm was to be sung, possibly a popular melody from another psalm or song that began with these words. The phrase also carries a profound thematic resonance, reflecting the psalm's content of God's preservation of David from destruction. "Michtam" (מִכְתָּם, _mikhtām_) is a less certain term, but it is often translated as "golden psalm" or "inscription." It suggests a psalm of lasting value, a precious composition, or perhaps a psalm meant to be permanently recorded or inscribed, highlighting its profound spiritual insights and enduring significance for generations.

**Why does David repeat "Be merciful unto me" twice?**

Answer: The repetition of "Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me" is a powerful literary device known as anaphora, used for emphasis and intensity. It underscores the profound distress David is experiencing and the urgency of his plea. This is not a casual request but a fervent, desperate cry from the depths of his soul, indicating the overwhelming nature of his circumstances and his utter dependence on God's compassion and grace. The repetition conveys the heartfelt, sincere nature of his appeal, signifying that divine mercy is his only hope in a life-threatening situation.

**How does the "shadow of thy wings" imagery apply to believers today?**

Answer: The imagery of taking refuge "in the shadow of thy wings" is a powerful and enduring metaphor for God's intimate, comprehensive, and tender protection. For believers today, it signifies finding ultimate security, comfort, and peace under God's sovereign care, even amidst life's storms. Just as a mother bird shelters her young from danger, God provides a spiritual haven from the anxieties, threats, and spiritual attacks of the world. This "shadow" is not merely a passive covering but an active, personal presence that offers safety, rest, and renewal. It reminds us that our true safety is not found in controlling our circumstances but in trusting in God's unwavering faithfulness and seeking His presence as our ultimate refuge, just as Jesus Himself longed to gather His people under His protective wing ([Matthew 23:37](/matthew/23-37 "Matthew 23:37 - Jesus' Lament over Jerusalem")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 57:1, with David's desperate cry for mercy and his unwavering trust in God's protective "shadow of wings," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. David, pursued by Saul and finding refuge in a physical cave, foreshadows Christ, who, though innocent, was relentlessly pursued by the forces of evil and ultimately faced the "calamities" of the cross. In His agony in Gethsemane, Jesus, like David, poured out a fervent prayer to His Father, submitting His will and trusting in divine providence even unto death ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Luke 22:42 - Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane")). Christ is the very embodiment of God's mercy, for it is through His sacrificial death that humanity receives the ultimate act of divine compassion and forgiveness ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Furthermore, Jesus is the ultimate "refuge" and the "shadow of wings" for all who believe. He gathers His people to Himself, offering eternal security and protection from the ultimate calamities of sin and death ([Matthew 23:37](/matthew/23-37 "Matthew 23:37 - Jesus' Lament over Jerusalem")). Through Him, we are not merely preserved *until* calamities pass, but we are given victory *over* them, for Christ has overcome the world, and in Him, we find true and lasting peace that surpasses all understanding ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Overcoming the World")). David's experience points to the greater reality that in Christ, God Himself provides the perfect, eternal shelter for our souls, a dwelling place where we are forever secure.

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.

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.