Psalm 3/Context

Context

Figures of Speech

This psalm is loaded with picturesque speech: (enemies) “rising up against me” (2b), “shield” (4a), “my glory” (4b), “lift up my head” (4b), “holy hill” (5b), “lie down—sleep—wake up” (6a), (enemies) “set all around against me” (7b), and the concluding graphically hyperbolic, symbolic language: “strike the jaw—and break the teeth” of the wicked (8b).,

Other

Canonical Context
The pair of psalms that begin the Psalter also serves as its introduction by revealing two of its most prominent themes—namely, that Yahweh watches over the righteous, and that his chosen Messiah rules over all things. These interrelated theological truths form the foundation of all blessings for God’s people. Psalm 3 begins the Psalter proper then with an individual prayer, or “petition” of the type that predominates in Book One (Psalms 1-41).