Psalms 57:1 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Seek God's mercy as a refuge from present troubles.
The Context of Psalms 57:1
A prayer for deliverance from enemies who are actively threatening the psalmist.
What Does Psalms 57:1 Mean?
The psalmist is in immediate danger and appeals twice to God's mercy, emphasizing urgency and desperation. The repetition shows how completely he depends on divine protection in this crisis, not holding back the intensity of his plea.
The image of shelter under God's wings conveys safety and intimate protection. The psalmist's trust rests on the confidence that God will shield him until his current calamities pass, speaking to the temporary nature of his suffering.
Psalms 57:1 in the Original Language
tsalal (צָלַל), 'shadow'—the word can mean both shade and concealment, suggesting both protection and a hidden place of safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 57:1
What does Psalms 57:1 mean?
Seek God's mercy as a refuge from present troubles.
What is the context of Psalms 57:1?
A prayer for deliverance from enemies who are actively threatening the psalmist.