Biblical Commentary:What does Psalm chapter 86 mean?
Chapter Context
This is the only passage attributed to David in this large segment, often called "Book Three" of the Psalms. It contains multiple quotes and allusions to David's other psalms (Psalms 22:28; 25:4; 31:2; 40:17; 54:3) as well as important Old Testament expressions (Exodus 15:11; 34:6; Deuteronomy 3:24). Most commentators suggest this was not written by David himself; this suggests the text is "of David" since it repeats portions of his words and echoes his views.
What does Psalm chapter 86 mean?
Psalm 86 refers to God using multiple Hebrew words. These include
YHWH (Psalm 86:1, 6, 11, 17),
Elohim (Psalm 86:2, 10, 12, 14), and
Adonai (Psalm 86:3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12, 15). This prayer repeats notable phrases from the Old Testament (Exodus 15:11; 34:6; Deuteronomy 3:24) and several of David's psalms (Psalm 22:28; 25:4; 31:2; 40:17; 54:3). David's "prayers" were recently noted to have finished (Psalm 72:20), and this is the only one assigned to David in "Book Three" of the Psalms (Psalms 73—89). For these reasons, most scholars believe this was not written by King David himself. More likely, this is a "prayer of David" in that it echoes his style and beliefs.
The prayer can be divided into three main sections:
In the first segment, the psalmist prays for rescue from some danger or hardship. He feels helpless against some powerful danger. So, he turns to the Lord seeking salvation and reassurance. The prayer appeals to God's loving and merciful nature. This opening passage refers to God six times using three different terms (Psalm 86:1–7).
Next, the prayer praises God for His incredible nature and prior rescues. This passage emphasizes that the Lord is unique; He will be the ultimate object of worship for all nations, some day. As part of this worship, the psalmist submits to God's will and asks for guidance in obedience (Psalm 86:8–13).
Finally, the prayer returns to appeals for safety. As is common in David's psalms (Psalm 35:4; 70:2), the situation involves evil men who seek murder. The psalmist is confident that the Lord will hear his prayers. Even so, he asks the Lord for some sign of assurance (Psalm 86:14–17).
