Psalms 59:17 (KJV)

What does Psalms 59:17 mean?

Psalms 59:17 ends with the speaker addressing God in song. He calls God his strength and explains why he sings: he sees God as the one who protects him and treats him with mercy.

The words “my defence” picture a safe place above danger. After looking toward a morning song in verse 16, the speaker ends by turning directly to God: “Unto thee.”

The Hebrew behind Psalms 59:17

• “defence” — מִשְׂגָּב (misgav): This word refers to a high place or stronghold. It gives the KJV’s “defence” the picture of a secure refuge.
• “mercy” — חֶסֶד (ḥesed): This word often carries the sense of steadfast kindness or loyal care. The phrase “the God of my mercy” speaks of God as the source of such care toward the speaker.

Why Psalms 59:17 matters

• The speaker’s song has a stated reason. The word “for” connects his singing to what he says about God’s protection and mercy.
• The final words keep the song personal. The repeated “my” in “my strength,” “my defence,” and “my mercy” presents the speaker’s own relationship to God.
• The ending belongs to a plea made amid danger. Earlier, verse 3 describes people lying in wait for the speaker; verse 17 closes the psalm with a song addressed to God.