In my distress
This phrase reflects a common theme in the Psalms, where the psalmist often finds themselves in a state of trouble or affliction. The Hebrew word for "distress" can imply a tight or narrow place, symbolizing the pressure and constraints of difficult circumstances. This mirrors the experiences of many biblical figures, such as David, who faced numerous adversities. The psalmist's distress could be personal, national, or spiritual, reflecting the broader struggles of Israel throughout its history.

I called to the LORD
The act of calling upon the LORD signifies a deep reliance on God as the ultimate source of help and deliverance. This is a recurring motif in the Psalms, emphasizing the importance of prayer and communication with God. The psalmist's call is an act of faith, trusting in God's covenantal promises to His people. This reflects the broader biblical narrative where God responds to the cries of His people, as seen in the Exodus story when the Israelites cried out under Egyptian bondage.

and He answered
God's response to the psalmist's call highlights His faithfulness and readiness to intervene in the lives of His people. This assurance of divine response is a central tenet of the biblical understanding of God's character. The idea that God answers prayer is echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Jeremiah 33:3, where God invites His people to call upon Him with the promise of revelation and deliverance.

and set me free
The imagery of being set free suggests liberation from bondage or oppression. This can be understood both literally and metaphorically, as God delivers from physical enemies or spiritual burdens. The Hebrew term used here can also mean being brought into a broad or spacious place, contrasting with the earlier "distress." This deliverance is a type of the ultimate freedom found in Christ, who liberates believers from the bondage of sin and death, as seen in the New Testament teachings of salvation and redemption.

1. The Psalmist
Traditionally attributed to King David, the psalmist is expressing personal experience and testimony of God's deliverance.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and relationship with His people.

3. Distress
A state of extreme anxiety or suffering, often due to external pressures or adversaries.

4. Freedom
The deliverance or liberation that God provides, both physically and spiritually.

5. The Temple
While not directly mentioned in this verse, Psalm 118 is often associated with temple worship and communal celebration.The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a direct line to God, especially in times of distress. The psalmist's example encourages believers to turn to God first when facing challenges.

God's Faithfulness
The Lord's response to the psalmist's cry demonstrates His faithfulness. Believers can trust that God hears and answers prayers according to His will.

Spiritual Freedom
Beyond physical deliverance, God offers spiritual freedom from sin and bondage. This verse can remind believers of the ultimate freedom found in Christ.

Personal Testimony
Sharing personal experiences of God's deliverance can strengthen the faith of others and glorify God. Believers are encouraged to testify about God's work in their lives.

Community Worship
Psalm 118 is often used in communal settings, reminding believers of the importance of corporate worship and thanksgiving for God's deliverance.(5) I called.--Better, out of the straitness I cried to Jah; answered me, with freedom, Jah. The meaning of the last clause (literally, with room. Comp.: "Ay, marry, now my soul has elbow-room"--King John) is determined by the parallelism of Psalm 18:19. The versions read "freedom of Jah," i.e., boundless freedom,"

Verse 5. - I called upon the Lord in distress; literally, from the strait place; i.e. from the straits in which I was. It is generally agreed that the Babylonian captivity is intended. The nation had called to God in its distress by the mouth of Daniel (Daniel 9:4-19) and of other holy men. The Lord answered me, and set me in a large place; literally, the Lord answered me on the open plain. The idea is, "The Lord gave me enlargement" - took me out of my straits - "set my feet in a large room" (Psalm 31:8).

Parallel Commentaries ...


In
מִֽן־ (min-)
Preposition
Strong's 4480: A part of, from, out of

[my] distress
הַ֭מֵּצַ֥ר (ham·mê·ṣar)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4712: Something tight, trouble

I called
קָרָ֣אתִי (qā·rā·ṯî)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 7121: To call, proclaim, read

to the LORD,
יָּ֑הּ (yāh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3050: LORD -- the name of the God of Israel

[and He]
יָֽהּ׃ (yāh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3050: LORD -- the name of the God of Israel

answered
עָנָ֖נִי (‘ā·nā·nî)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular | first person common singular
Strong's 6030: To answer, respond

[and set me] free.
בַמֶּרְחָ֣ב (ḇam·mer·ḥāḇ)
Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4800: A broad or roomy place


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OT Poetry: Psalm 118:5 Out of my distress I called (Psalm Ps Psa.)