For the music director; to be played on a stringed instrument; written by David.
61:1 O God, hear my cry for help!
Pay attention to my prayer!
61:5 For you, O God, hear my vows;
you grant me the reward that belongs to your loyal followers. 2
1 sn Psalm 61. The psalmist cries out for help and expresses his confidence that God will protect him.
2 tn Heb “you grant the inheritance of those who fear your name.” “Inheritance” is normally used of land which is granted as an inheritance; here it refers metaphorically to the blessings granted God’s loyal followers. To “fear” God’s name means to have a healthy respect for his revealed reputation which in turn motivates one to obey God’s commands (see Ps 86:11).