Psalms 35:17 Commentary and Analysis

Bible Verse: Psalms 35:17 - "Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions."

Overview of Psalms 35:17

This verse is a passionate plea from the psalmist, expressing a sense of urgency in the face of suffering. The imagery of "lions" signifies powerful adversaries and imminent danger, while the reference to "my darling" indicates something precious, possibly the psalmist's soul or life.

Combined Insights from Commentaries

The following insights are drawn from the works of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

• Urgency in Prayer: Henry notes the psalmist's deep desire for God's intervention. The repetition of the cry for help illustrates the intensity of the situation.
• Imagery of Danger: The mention of "lions" signifies fierce opposition. Henry emphasizes the spiritual implications, suggesting that these adversaries symbolize sin and evil forces.
• Divine Rescue: Henry conveys that the psalmist's faith lies in God's ability to rescue and protect those who are in distress, reflecting a belief in divine justice.

Albert Barnes' Notes

• Temporal Distress: Barnes explains that the verse communicates a feeling of abandonment, with the psalmist questioning why God seems to be silent amid suffering.
• Destruction and Life: He interprets the term "darling" as representing the psalmist’s life, stressing the importance of this plea for preservation against imminent death.
• The Role of Faith: Barnes emphasizes the role of faith during periods of distress, reminding readers that God ultimately hears the desperate cries of His people.

Adam Clarke's Exposition

• Questioning God: Clarke points out the rhetorical question posed by the psalmist, highlighting a human tendency to seek understanding during trials.
• Spiritual Warfare: He interprets the lions as metaphors for spiritual enemies, paralleling the struggles of faith with the tangible realities of suffering.
• Intimate Address: Clarke notes the personal address to God, implying a close relationship and deep trust in divine intervention.

Bible Cross-References

This verse can be connected with several other scriptures that illustrate similar themes of distress and divine rescue:

• Psalm 22:1: "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" - Demonstrates the feeling of abandonment.
• Psalm 56:1-2: "Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me." - Highlights human oppression and calls for mercy.
• Psalm 124:7: "Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped." - A declaration of divine rescue from danger.
• 2 Timothy 4:18: "And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom." - Assurance of God's protection.
• 1 Peter 5:8: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." - New Testament parallel on spiritual adversaries.
• Job 10:8-9: "Thine hands have made me and fashioned me together round about; yet thou dost destroy me…" - A reflection on divine creation and concern for life.
• Psalm 91:15: "He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him." - Emphasizing God's promise of deliverance.

Thematic Connections and Reflections

The themes found in Psalms 35:17 resonate throughout scripture. The plea for divine intervention during trials is a common motif. Biblical texts frequently explore the tension between human suffering and the faithfulness of God.

Scriptural Cross-Referencing

Engaging with this verse through a cross-referencing approach reveals a rich dialogue between Old Testament laments and the hopeful assurances found in New Testament teachings. Various methods of biblical analysis, including thematic connections and inter-Biblical dialogue, can deepen understanding.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Utilizing tools for cross-referencing can enhance Bible study:

• Bible Concordance
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide
• Bible Reference Resources

Conclusion

Psalms 35:17 stands as a powerful reminder of the human experience of distress, the quest for divine rescue, and the profound assurance that God hears and responds. By exploring this verse in the context of interconnected scriptures, one can appreciate the depth of biblical faith and the continuous thread of God’s promise of deliverance throughout history.