Psalm 20/Notes/Lexical.v. 10.488761
From Psalms: Layer by Layer
- May he answer us (יַעֲנֵ֥נוּ): Jussive is preferred over the indicative in order to preserve the symmetry between vv. 2 and 10 (see below). The "psalm concludes as it began, with an expression of intense desire"[1]
- v. 2: "May YHWH answer you in the day of trouble."
- v. 10: "May he answer us in the day of our calling."
- In addition to the similarities between the psalm's beginning (v. 2) and its end (v. 10), there are also meaningful differences. The prayer that God would answer you (v. 2) becomes a prayer that God would answer us (v. 10). Moreover, the day of trouble, is now, the day of our calling.[2] The people join together with the anointed king in his need and express a prayer in solidarity. They accept the king’s success as their own success and stand, fully united with their king, in seeking YHWH’s favor.