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Book of Psalms - Chapter 6 - Verse 1

6:1
To the chief Musician on Neginoth upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David. O LORD, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.

Meaning

Psalm 6:1 carries a message of humility and dependence on God. In this verse, David, the author of the psalm, is pleading with the Lord not to rebuke or chasten him in anger or displeasure. This shows David's recognition of God's sovereignty and his own need for mercy and grace. By addressing the verse to the chief Musician on Neginoth upon Sheminith, David is acknowledging that this psalm is meant for public worship and is to be accompanied by musical instruments. The use of the term "rebuke" emphasizes David's fear of divine punishment, while "chasten" refers to the discipline or correction he may receive from God. Overall, this verse reflects a desire for God's compassion and forgiveness, highlighting the importance of seeking God's guidance and mercy in times of trouble.

Theological Overview

Psalm 6:1 opens with a plea from David to the Lord, asking for mercy and forgiveness. The theological interpretation of this verse sheds light on David's understanding of God's character and his own sinfulness. By referring to the Lord as the chief Musician, David acknowledges God as the ultimate authority and source of comfort in times of distress. The word "Neginoth" is believed to refer to a stringed musical instrument, suggesting that this psalm was meant to be sung with a melody that reflected David's emotional state. The term "Sheminith" likely indicates the musical pitch or tone of the song, further emphasizing the importance of music in worship and expressing one's deepest emotions to God. David's plea to be spared from God's anger and hot displeasure reveals his awareness of the consequences of sin and his reliance on God's grace and compassion for forgiveness. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance and seeking God's mercy when faced with the consequences of our actions.

American Standard Version

[For the Chief Musician; on stringed instruments, set to the Sheminith. A Psalm of David]. O Jehovah, rebuke me not in thine anger, Neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.
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