Psalm 56 Study Notes

56:8-9 Tears probably refers to prayers or, more specifically, laments that involve crying. The bottle refers to God’s storing of these prayers so he can act on them later. This is similar to the image of incense in Revelation to represent the prayers of the saints (Rv 5:8; 8:3-4). The records are similar to the “books of remembrance” referred to in Dn 7:10 and Mal 3:16. The knowledge that God is for me should bring remarkable peace (see Rm 8:31).

Batach denotes trust (Jdg 9:26). People are confident (Jdg 20:36) or bold (Pr 28:1). They are (Is 47:10) or feel (Am 6:1) secure. They rely (Ps 21:7), depend (Jb 39:11), and trust (Ps 40:3). Participles imply unsuspecting (Jdg 18:7), overconfident (Is 32:9), or protected (Pr 11:15). Betach (42x) means security (Jr 49:31), confidence (Is 32:17), and safety (Ps 78:53). It appears as securely (Lv 25:18) and unsuspecting (Gn 34:25). Mibtach (15x) means trust (Ps 40:4) or object of trust (Ezk 29:16). It denotes hope (Ps 65:5), security (Jb 18:14), and confidence (Jr 17:7). It appears as safe (Is 32:18). Bitchah is confidence (Is 30:15); battuchot, security (Jb 12:6); and bittachon, hope (Ec 9:4). The latter with batach means what you are relying on or basing confidence on (2Kg 18:19; Is 36:4). Verses say people should trust in God rather than idols, men, or self.

56:10-11 What can mere humans do to me? again reminds us of Rm 8:31.

56:12 Vows were commonly made during petitions and fulfilled through thank offerings (see note at 22:25-26).

56:13 Light is used as a synonym for life (Jb 3:20) but also may represent joy (Is 9:2) and salvation (Is 58:8). See notes at Ps 27:1; 36:9.