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Book of Psalms - Chapter 61 - Verse 1

61:1
To the chief Musician upon Neginah, A Psalm of David. Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.

Meaning

Psalm 61 is attributed to King David and is a cry for help and guidance to God. The verse begins with a plea for God to hear the speaker's cry and to pay attention to their prayer. By addressing the verse to the chief Musician upon Neginah, the Psalm may have been intended to be sung or played as a musical piece, adding a layer of emotional depth to the supplication. This verse serves as a reminder that even mighty kings like David are in need of God's assistance and that turning to God in times of trouble is not a sign of weakness, but rather a display of faith and humility. The use of music in this verse suggests that the act of prayer can be a powerful and emotional experience, tapping into the deeper parts of the soul. Overall, this verse is a powerful expression of human vulnerability and the need for divine intervention in times of distress.

Theological Overview

Psalm 61:1 is a plea from King David to God for help and deliverance. The word "cry" in this verse signifies a heartfelt, urgent plea, indicating the depth of desperation David feels. The word "attend" implies careful, intentional listening and consideration by God. This language conveys the intensity of David's prayer and his belief in God's ability to hear and act on his behalf. The reference to the chief Musician and the word "Neginah" in the heading of the psalm suggest that this prayer was meant to be sung or accompanied by music in a public setting. This highlights the importance of corporate worship in the life of believers and emphasizes the power of music in expressing emotions and connecting with God. Overall, this verse demonstrates the faith of the psalmist in God's ability to hear and respond to his cries for help, inspiring readers to turn to God with their own prayers of petition and trust in His faithfulness.

American Standard Version

[For the Chief Musician; on a stringed instrument. [A Psalm] of David]. Hear my cry, O God; Attend unto my prayer.
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