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Dhammapada · narration sample

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The Bible · 539 of 1189

Psalms 61

1.Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.

2.From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

3.For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.

4.I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.

5.For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.

6.Thou wilt prolong the king’s life: and his years as many generations.

7.He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.

8.So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever, that I may daily perform my vows.

Asked of Guide

Why does the psalmist ask God to 'lead me to the rock that is higher than I'?

The psalmist uses the image of a higher rock to ask for a safe, secure refuge when his “heart is overwhelmed.” That rock names God’s protection and stability—God as a shelter and “strong tower” who lifts the speaker above danger and despair.

This plea also sets the tone for the psalm’s vow-making and praise: because God “hast heard my vows” and given a heritage to those who fear his name, the speaker promises to “sing praise unto thy name for ever.” The movement from cry to refuge to perpetual praise echoes themes in the Psalms and in Hebrews, where faith seeks a lasting, heavenly stronghold.

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