Question 1

What does Psalms 20:9 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 20:9 is a prayer asking God to save and to let the king respond to the people's cries for help. The verse expresses a hope that God will deliver and that the king, as God's representative, will listen when the people call out. In this psalm, the people are speaking, likely during a time of trouble or before a battle, asking for God's help and for their king to be attentive to their needs. The verse closes the psalm with a direct appeal for salvation and for the king's involvement, reflecting the close connection between God, the king, and the people in ancient Israel.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 20:9

Accepted Answer

"Save" (יָשַׁע, yashaʿ): This word often means to deliver or rescue, especially in times of danger. Here, it is a plea for God to bring victory or safety. "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing the relationship between the people and their covenant God. "King" (מֶלֶךְ, melekh): This can refer to the earthly king (like David) or, as some understand, to God as King. In context, it likely points to the human king as the people's leader. "Hear" (עָנָה, ʿanah): This word means to answer or respond, not just to listen. The request is for the king to take action in response to the people's call. "Call" (קָרָא, qaraʾ): This word means to cry out or appeal, showing the people's dependence and urgency in seeking help.

Question 3

Why Psalms 20:9 matters

Accepted Answer

Psalms 20:9 highlights the people's trust in both God and their king, showing how leadership and faith were closely linked in Israel's life. The verse clarifies that the king is expected to be responsive to the people's needs, not distant or unapproachable. This closing prayer ties together the whole psalm, which is a communal request for God's help and blessing on the king, especially in times of crisis.

Psalms 20:9 (KJV)