Psalms 61:5

KJV

¶ For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given [me] the heritage of those that fear thy name.

KJV (with Strong's)

For thou, O God {H430}, hast heard {H8085}{H8804)} my vows {H5088}: thou hast given {H5414}{H8804)} me the heritage {H3425} of those that fear {H3373} thy name {H8034}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For you, God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.

Berean Standard Bible

For You have heard my vows, O God; You have given me the inheritance reserved for those who fear Your name.

American Standard Version

For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: Thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 61:5 stands as a profound declaration of King David's unwavering confidence and deep gratitude to God, even amidst personal distress. It articulates his firm conviction that the Lord has not only attentively heard his solemn vows but has also graciously bestowed upon him the secure and lasting heritage reserved for those who hold His name in reverent awe. This verse serves as a powerful testament to God's enduring faithfulness, His responsiveness to the earnest prayers of His people, and His commitment to provide a secure portion for those who honor Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 61 is a heartfelt prayer of individual lament and trust, likely composed by David during a period of intense personal hardship or exile. The preceding verses ([Psalms 61:1-4](/psalms/61-1-4 "Psalm 61:1-4 - David's Cry for Refuge")) vividly portray David's desperate cry for help from "the end of the earth," his plea to be led to "the rock that is higher than I," and his longing for refuge under God's protective wings. Verse 5 marks a significant turning point within the psalm; it shifts from an urgent petition to a confident affirmation of God's past and present goodness. This declaration of God's responsiveness to his vows and the granting of a heritage serves as a foundational assurance for David's subsequent requests for continued divine protection and a renewed commitment to perpetual praise in [Psalms 61:6-8](/psalms/61-6-8 "Psalm 61:6-8 - David's Vow of Praise"). This pivot highlights David's deep-seated trust that God, who has acted faithfully in the past, will continue to do so, anchoring his future hope in God's proven character.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the exact historical setting for Psalm 61 is not explicitly stated, many scholars suggest it was written during David's flight from his rebellious son Absalom, a period characterized by immense personal danger, displacement, and a profound sense of isolation, aligning with the psalmist's cry from "the end of the earth" (as depicted in [2 Samuel 15:14](/2_samuel/15-14 "2 Samuel 15:14 - David Flees Absalom")). In ancient Israelite culture, "vows" (Hebrew: _neder_) were solemn, binding promises made to God, often in times of distress or as expressions of deep devotion and commitment (see [Numbers 30](/numbers/30 "Numbers 30 - Laws Concerning Vows") and [Deuteronomy 23:21-23](/deuteronomy/23-21-23 "Deuteronomy 23:21-23 - Fulfilling Vows")). The concept of "heritage" (Hebrew: _nachalah_) was profoundly significant, primarily referring to the tribal land inheritance granted by God, which symbolized security, identity, and divine blessing. Here, David extends this concept beyond mere physical land to encompass a spiritual and enduring portion from God, reflecting a deeper understanding of God's covenantal provision.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 61:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Psalter and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **God's responsiveness to prayer**, asserting that the Lord is attentive and faithful to the sincere cries and solemn commitments of His people, even in their deepest distress. Secondly, the verse highlights the **significance of vows** as expressions of human devotion and trust, and God's faithfulness in acknowledging and responding to such pledges. Thirdly, it introduces the profound concept of the **heritage of the righteous**, emphasizing that God bestows a secure and lasting portion—a divinely appointed blessing and protection—upon those who live in reverent obedience to Him. This "heritage" signifies not just material provision but also spiritual security and an assured place in God's favor, echoing the promises found in [Psalm 37:29](/psalms/37-29 "Psalm 37:29 - The Righteous Inherit the Land"). Finally, the phrase "those that fear thy name" encapsulates the theme of **reverence and obedience to God**, a foundational principle of wisdom and true faith throughout Scripture, as seen in [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Vows (Hebrew, _neder'_):** This term (H5088) refers to a solemn promise, pledge, or commitment made to God, often involving a specific action, offering, or abstinence. In David's context, it signifies his earnest petitions and perhaps promises of praise or obedience made during his time of trouble. God's act of "hearing" these vows implies not just passive listening but active acknowledgment and a commitment to respond, reinforcing the covenantal relationship between God and His people.
* **Heritage (Hebrew, _yᵉrushshâh'_):** While often used to denote the tribal land inheritance in Israel (H3425), here it takes on a broader, more spiritual meaning. It signifies a lasting possession, a secure portion, or an enduring blessing divinely appointed to God's faithful. It speaks of security, belonging, and the sustained favor that God grants to those who live in reverence for Him, extending beyond material wealth to encompass spiritual well-being and divine protection.
* **Fear (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** This word (H3373), when used in the context of "fearing God's name," does not imply cowering terror but rather a profound reverence, awe, and respectful obedience towards God's character, authority, and revealed presence (represented by His "name," H8034, _shêm'_). To "fear God's name" is to acknowledge His sovereignty, holiness, and power, leading to a life of humble submission and devotion. It is the antithesis of casual disregard and is consistently presented in Scripture as the beginning of wisdom and the path to true blessedness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For thou, O God, hast heard my vows":** This opening clause is a confident declaration rooted in past experience and deep faith. David asserts with certainty that God (H430, _ʼĕlôhîym'_), the sovereign Lord, has not only listened (H8085, _shâmaʻ'_) to his solemn prayers and commitments but has also responded to them. This statement underscores God's attentiveness, faithfulness, and active involvement in the lives of His people, providing a powerful basis for David's subsequent affirmation.
* **"thou hast given [me] the heritage of those that fear thy name":** This second clause reveals the tangible outcome of God's hearing and David's reverence. God has bestowed (H5414, _nâthan'_) upon David a secure and lasting portion, identifying him with the community of the faithful who hold God in reverent awe. This "heritage" is a divine gift, ensuring David's security, favor, and a lasting place within God's protective care, a blessing specifically reserved for those who honor Him.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful literary devices. **Parallelism** is evident in the complementary relationship between the two clauses: God's act of "hearing my vows" is directly linked to His act of "giving me the heritage," establishing a clear cause-and-effect or responsive dynamic. The term "heritage" functions as a powerful **metaphor**, drawing on the familiar concept of land inheritance in ancient Israel to convey a broader, enduring spiritual blessing and security that God bestows. This extends the idea of a physical possession to a divinely appointed, lasting portion that encompasses favor, protection, and an assured place in God's kingdom. Furthermore, the phrase "fear thy name" utilizes **metonymy**, where "name" stands for God's entire being, character, and authority. The "fear" is not merely of the word but of the divine Person it represents, emphasizing a profound and holistic reverence for God Himself.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 61:5 powerfully articulates foundational theological truths about God's character and His relationship with humanity. It underscores God's unwavering faithfulness as a covenant-keeping God who actively listens and responds to the earnest cries and commitments of His people. David's declaration affirms that God is not distant or indifferent but intimately involved, extending His divine favor and provision to those who approach Him with sincere devotion. The "heritage" promised to those who "fear His name" highlights the blessings of living in reverent obedience, signifying a secure, lasting portion that transcends material possessions, encompassing spiritual peace, divine protection, and an assured place in God's eternal kingdom. This verse serves as a timeless reminder that a life marked by genuine reverence for God is met with His abundant and enduring blessings.

* [1 John 5:14](/1_john/5-14 "1 John 5:14 - Confidence in Prayer")
* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")
* [Psalm 37:29](/psalms/37-29 "Psalm 37:29 - The Righteous Inherit the Land")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 61:5 offers profound encouragement and practical guidance for believers navigating the complexities of life. David's confident declaration, even from a place of distress, reminds us that our prayers and heartfelt commitments are genuinely heard by a compassionate and attentive God. This should embolden us to bring our petitions, laments, and vows before Him with unwavering confidence, knowing that He is responsive and deeply cares for our concerns. Furthermore, the promise of a "heritage" for those who "fear His name" calls us to cultivate a life of profound reverence and respectful obedience towards God. This "fear" is not a cowering dread but a deep awe that shapes our choices, priorities, and responses, aligning our lives with His divine will. Recognizing that God has bestowed a secure and lasting portion upon us—a heritage that encompasses spiritual blessings, peace, and divine protection—allows us to trust in His continued faithfulness, even when circumstances seem bleak. We can look back on His past acts of provision and declare with David that He will indeed uphold and secure those who are devoted to Him, providing an anchor of hope in every season.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's confidence in God's hearing of his vows encourage your own prayer life, especially in times of distress?**
* **What does it mean for you to "fear God's name" in your daily life, and how might this reverence shape your choices and priorities?**
* **In what ways have you experienced God's "heritage" or lasting blessings, even if they were not material?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "vows" in the Old Testament, and are they still relevant for believers today?**

Answer: In the Old Testament, "vows" (Hebrew: _neder_) were solemn, binding promises made to God, often involving specific actions, offerings, or periods of dedication (e.g., the Nazarite vow in [Numbers 6](/numbers/6 "Numbers 6 - The Nazarite Vow")). They were expressions of deep devotion, gratitude, or appeals for divine intervention, and their fulfillment was taken very seriously (see [Ecclesiastes 5:4-5](/ecclesiastes/5-4-5 "Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 - Fulfilling Vows")). While the specific legalistic forms of vows may not be directly applicable to New Testament believers, the underlying principle of making sincere commitments to God and faithfully keeping them remains profoundly relevant. This includes commitments made in prayer, promises of obedience, or dedications of our lives and resources to His service. It speaks to a heart of integrity, devotion, and a recognition of God's sovereignty over our lives.

**What does "the heritage of those that fear thy name" specifically refer to?**

Answer: While "heritage" (Hebrew: _nachalah_) often referred to the literal land inheritance of Israel's tribes, in Psalms 61:5, it extends beyond a physical possession to encompass a secure and lasting spiritual blessing, divine protection, and an assured place in God's favor. For those who "fear His name"—meaning they live in profound reverence and obedient awe of God—this heritage includes spiritual peace, a sense of belonging, God's sustained provision, and the promise of His presence. It signifies an enduring portion that God Himself bestows, ensuring their well-being and security, not just in this life but eternally. This concept is beautifully echoed in passages like [Psalm 37:18-19](/psalms/37-18-19 "Psalm 37:18-19 - The Lord Upholds the Righteous"), which speaks of the Lord knowing the days of the upright and their inheritance enduring forever.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 61:5, with its declaration of God hearing vows and granting heritage to those who fear His name, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. David's experience of God's faithfulness foreshadows the perfect obedience of the Son, who, in His earthly life, perfectly fulfilled the ultimate "vow" to do the Father's will (as prophesied in [Psalm 40:7-8](/psalms/40-7-8 "Psalm 40:7-8 - Christ's Obedience") and quoted in [Hebrews 10:7](/hebrews/10-7 "Hebrews 10:7 - Christ's Obedience")). Through His sacrificial life, death, and resurrection, Jesus secured the true and eternal "heritage" for all who believe. We, who were once alienated, are now, by faith in Christ, adopted as children of God ([John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Children of God")) and become co-heirs with Christ ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")). The "heritage" we receive is not merely land or temporal blessing, but an incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading inheritance kept in heaven for us ([1 Peter 1:3-4](/1_peter/1-3-4 "1 Peter 1:3-4 - A Living Hope and Incorruptible Inheritance")). Our "fear of His name" is now expressed through reverent worship and obedient love for God, made possible by the Holy Spirit, who indwells us and is the "guarantee of our inheritance" ([Ephesians 1:11-14](/ephesians/1-14 "Ephesians 1:11-14 - Our Inheritance in Christ")). Thus, David's ancient cry of confidence becomes a vibrant reality for every believer in the new covenant, whose ultimate security and eternal portion are found securely in Christ.

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 56:12

Thy vows [are] upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.

Psalms 115:13

He will bless them that fear the LORD, [both] small and great.

Malachi 3:16

Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.

Malachi 3:18

Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

Psalms 86:11

Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.

Psalms 65:1

¶ To the chief Musician, A Psalm [and] Song of David. Praise waiteth for thee, O God, in Sion: and unto thee shall the vow be performed.

Psalms 16:5

The LORD [is] the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.