Close To Torah

The love that David had for Hashem was unable to be compromised no matter what befell David. David never questioned Hashem all of the time that he was being unjustly chased by Shaul and tormented by other advocacies. David begged Hashem to save him and to bring him to a place of peace and comfort. Sforno and Metzodos maintain that this specific psalm was composed when David was traveling to repel Aram as they attempted to annex the eastern boundaries of Israel.

Deeper Parable

Just as David cried out to Hashem for help, so too, the Jews cry in exile longing for Hashem’s salvation (Radak). This is why the psalm ends with a prayer for the continuation of the house of David. His family will lead the Jews as the leaders with the culmination of the Messiah. Let us explore this and its lessons.

David’s Special Thanks

Many psalms begin with the words, “Lamnatzieach, to the conductor” because this is a signal for the musician to play. However, this psalm is unique in that it opens with the words, “Lamnatzieach al neginas, for the conductor, a reason for song (Verse 1).” Midrash Pesikta Rabbasi (9:2) explains that David recognized that despite all of his challenges, he still had the presence of mind to be able to sing Hashem’s praises; he thought that was something well worth singing about! David celebrated the fact that even though his life was filled with experiences that could potentially distract him from spirituality and Hashem, never-the-less he exerted his efforts to utilize his challenges as opportunities for growth.

Prayer and Praise

David expressed (verse 2) an important point. “Hashem hear my song; heed my prayers.” When we sing the praise of Hashem this is the greatest form of prayer to Him. We are showing that we long for His Embrace and closeness. We are showing that we turn to him for clarity and support and we are showing that our world and perspective revolves around Him. David asks “to take shelter in Your wings (verse 5).” He saw Hashem as his place of refuge and security. When we recite the psalms we tap into this power and perspective and we connect with the deep longing of the Jewish nation to be close with Hashem and to merit national and personal salvation from all of our collective and individual needs. David’s excitement and faith is contagious. His works continue to inspire us thousands of years after they were penned.

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