Psalm 63:2-8

The title of Psalm 63 attributes it to King David while he was in the wilderness of Judah (1 Samuel 22-24). Separated from God, he longed for the divine life in the Temple while extolling his intimate relationship with God.

O God, you are my God whom I seek; for you my flesh pines and my soul thirsts

Flesh (bāsār) and soul (nephesh) are the two dimensions that form a complete person (Genesis 2:2).

like the earth, parched, lifeless land without water.

The psalmist describes his intense longing for God using the image of arid land. A person needs God, the source of life, just as parched land thirsts for water as the source of life.

Thus have I gazed toward you in the sanctuary to see your power and your glory,

The psalmist recalls past experiences of being in God’s presence, likely referring to times of worship in the sanctuary of the temple. There he witnessed divine power (‘ōz) and glory (kābôd). 

for your kindness is a greater good than life; my lips shall glorify you.

Nowhere else in the Old Testament is something valued more than life itself, specifically, the covenant bond of God’s lovingkindness (hesed).

Thus will I bless you while I live; lifting up my hands, I will call upon your name.

Uplifted hands is a traditional posture of prayer. The psalmist expresses a lifelong dedication to worshiping and praising God.

As with the riches of a banquet shall my soul be satisfied, and with exultant lips my mouth shall praise you.

The psalmist anticipates a deep, soul-satisfying experience in the worship of God, like that of a sumptuous feast.

I will remember you upon my couch, and through the night-watches I will meditate on you:

There are several interpretations of this verse:

• • David’s reference to his “couch” (mittah, also translated as “bed”) might have been ironic, given that he was wandering in the wilderness at the time. He would have been in continual peril; he likely spent many nights keeping watch for predators and enemies while sleeping on the cold ground. Even with these distractions, his thoughts are with God.
  • Or perhaps in his longing to be worshiping God in the temple instead of wandering in the wilderness, David is referencing the night-watches kept by the Levites in the tabernacle for praising God (Psalm 134:1), and wishing he were there with them.
  • It’s also possible that David is looking to the future, vowing to remain devoted to God even in times of darkness, difficulty, or illness (being bedridden on his couch or bed).

You are my help, and in the shadow of your wings I shout for joy.

The passage ends with proclamations of profound trust in God. First, God is extolled as the king’s help (‘ēzer), to which he responds with shouts of joy.

The image of being under the shadow of God’s wings conveys a sense of protection and intimacy.

My soul clings fast to you; your right hand upholds me.

David professes a deep attachment to God; his very soul clings to the Lord.

Being upheld by God’s right hand holds special significance. The right hand was often used for making covenants, giving blessings, and expressing favor. Therefore, being upheld by the right hand symbolizes a covenantal relationship with God, his blessing, and his favor.

The king has sought refuge in God, and God has responded with love and protection.