4
For the Chief Musician; on stringed instruments. A Psalm by David [Beloved].
Context: David [Beloved] and the people with him cross the river Jordan [Descender] to Mahanaim [Two camps]. Absalom [Father peace] is actively trying to usurp his father, David [Beloved], as king. (2 Sam 15:1-30)
1 Answer me when I call, God of my righteousness.
Give me relief from my distress.
Have mercy on me, and sh'ma ·hear obey· my prayer.
2 You sons of men, how long shall my kavod ·weighty glory· be turned into dishonor?
Will you 'ahav ·affectionately love· vanity, and seek after falsehood?
Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·
3 But know that Adonai has set apart for himself him who is godly:
Adonai will sh'ma ·hear obey· when I call to him.
4 You can be angry, but don’t sin ·err (from the standard goal)·. *
Search your own heart on your bed, and be still.
Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness.
Put your trust in Adonai.
6 Many say, “Who will show us any good?”
Adonai, let the light of your face shine on us.
7 You have put gladness in my heart,
more than when their grain and their new wine are increased.
8 In peace I will both lay myself down and sleep,
for you, Adonai alone, make me live in safety.
* 4:4 . Quoted in Eph 4:26