Psalms 59:5 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou therefore, O LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel, awake to visit all the heathen: be not merciful to any wicked transgressors. Selah.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist invokes God as Lord of hosts and asks Him to awake and hold the wicked accountable.
The Context of Psalms 59:5
A prayer invoking God's authority and calling for justice against the wicked.
What Does Psalms 59:5 Mean?
By calling on 'LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel,' the psalmist appeals to God's identity as the God of armies and of the covenant people. This invocation reminds God of His role as protector and judge.
The request to 'be not merciful to any wicked transgressors' shows that justice—not mercy toward the guilty—is what the psalmist seeks. The 'Selah' marking suggests a pause for reflection on this appeal to divine justice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 59:5
What does Psalms 59:5 mean?
The psalmist invokes God as Lord of hosts and asks Him to awake and hold the wicked accountable.
What is the context of Psalms 59:5?
A prayer invoking God's authority and calling for justice against the wicked.