Psalms 17:1

“Hear the right, O LORD, attend unto my cry, give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of feigned lips.”

This verse is the opening verse of Psalm 17, which is a prayer of David.

Let’s break down this verse and explore its meaning:

“Hear the right, O LORD”: The psalm begins with a plea to God, asking Him to listen to the petitioner’s cry. The phrase “Hear the right” can be understood as a request for God to hear the just cause or the righteous plea of the psalmist. It expresses a desire for God to consider the sincerity and integrity of the prayer.

“Attend unto my cry”: The psalmist is urgently calling upon God to pay attention to their cry. It suggests a deep sense of need and a heartfelt plea for God’s intervention in their situation. This cry may be a cry for help, deliverance, or justice.

“Give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of feigned lips”: Here, the psalmist emphasizes the authenticity and sincerity of their prayer. They are requesting that God would not only listen but also recognize that the prayer is not coming from lips that speak deceitfully or insincerely. The psalmist desires a genuine and honest connection with God, expressing their desire to approach Him with a sincere heart.

Overall, Psalm 17:1 sets the tone for the entire psalm, which consists of a heartfelt plea for God’s protection and vindication in the midst of adversity. The psalmist desires God to acknowledge their just cause, listen attentively to their cry, and recognize the sincerity of their prayers.

Remember, studying the entire psalm in its context can provide deeper insights and a more comprehensive understanding of the passage.