Bible Study on Tehilliym (Psalms) 42- Kernodle Senior Center Burlington NC

Tuesday March 25th, 2025

Tehilliym (Psalms) 42

A psalm of rare beauty and passion exhibiting the writer’s intense longing for Elohiym.

Introduction:

Tehilliym 42 is attributed to the sons of Qorach (Korah), descendants of the Leviyiym (Levite) Qorach, who rebelled against Mosheh (Numbers 16). However, some of his descendants were spared and later became faithful servants in Yahuah’s house, composing and singing psalms. This psalm is a “Maschil,” indicating it is a psalm of instruction.

This psalm is on of 5 psalms attributed to the sons of Qorach and part of a larger group of 57 psalms that do not have a clear author given in the psalm or in the subtitles. This group of psalms was likely either written or re-discovered during the great revival of Yechizqiyahu (Hezekiah).

Tehilliym 42 (KJV-YS):
Verses 1-2: Longing for Yahuah’s Presence

“1. As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O Elohiym. 2. My soul thirsteth for Elohiym, for the living Elohiym: when shall I come and appear before Elohiym?”

Insights:The psalmist expresses an intense spiritual thirst for Yahuah, comparing it to a deer longing for water. The Hebrew word for “panteth” is עָרַג (arag), meaning to long for deeply or cry out. This is not a casual desire but a desperate need. Just as water is essential for survival, Yahuah is the source of life for the soul. The phrase “the living Elohiym” emphasizes that He is active and present, unlike the lifeless idols of the nations. The question “when shall I come and appear before Elohiym?” reflects the psalmist’s yearning to be in the presence of Yahuah, possibly indicating exile from the Temple or separation from communal worship.

Cross References Verses 1-2:
Tanakh (Old Testament):
Tehilliym (Psalms) 63:1 – “O Elohiym, Thou art my Elohiym; early will I seek Thee: my soul thirsteth for Thee, my flesh longeth for Thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is.”
Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 55:1&3 – “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price…. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.”
Amos 8:11-12 – “Behold, the days come, saith Master Yahuah, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the Words of Yahuah: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of Yahuah, and shall not find it. ”

Brit Ha’Dasha (New Testament):
Mattithyahu (Matthew) 5:6 – “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”
Yochanan (John) 7:37-38 – “If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”
Chazon (Revelation) 21:6 – “And He said unto me, It is done. I am Aleph and Tav (את), the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.”

Summary: The psalmist expresses an intense spiritual thirst for Yahuah, likening it to a deer panting for water. The Hebrew verb עָרַג (arag) conveys a deep yearning, a desperate need for communion with Elohiym. This passage highlights that just as water is essential for life, Yahuah is the sustainer of the soul. The phrase “the living Elohiym” reinforces that He is the true source of life, unlike the lifeless idols in the world. Seeking Yahuah’s presence should be the foremost desire of every believer, every day.

Verses 3-4: The Sorrow of Separation

“3. My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy Elohiym? 4. When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the assembly, I went with them to the house of Elohiym, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept a feast.”

Insights:The psalmist is overwhelmed by sorrow, describing tears as his constant food. The phrase “Where is thy Elohiym?” reveals that his enemies mock his faith, questioning why Yahuah has not delivered him. This reflects a common biblical theme where the righteous suffer, yet the wicked appear to prosper. In verse 4, he recalls the joy of worshiping Yahuah in the assembly, particularly during the Appointed Feasts of Yahuah (Leviticus 23). The contrast between past joy and present suffering deepens his sorrow, but also reveals his desire to return to Yahuah’s presence.

Cross References:
Tanakh (Old Testament):
Iyov (Job) 30:16 – “And now my soul is poured out upon me; the days of affliction have taken hold upon me.”
Yoel (Joel) 1:14 – “Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of Yahuah your Elohiym, and cry unto Yahuah.”

Brit Ha’Dasha (New Testament):
Luqas (Luke) 22:44 – “And being in an agony He prayed more earnestly: and His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”
Ivrim (Hebrews) 10:25 – “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Summary: The psalmist is overwhelmed with sorrow, weeping day and night while enemies mock his faith. The question “Where is thy Elohiym?” reflects the ridicule faced by those who trust in Yahuah during trials. The Hebrew phrase “pour out my soul” (שָׁפַךְ נַפְשִׁי, shafakh nafshi) implies deep anguish, an outpouring of one’s whole being in prayer. The contrast between joyful past worship and present suffering highlights the psalmist’s longing for restoration. This passage teaches that despite sorrow and separation, remembrance of Yahuah’s past goodness can strengthen faith.

Verses 5: Hope and Trust in Yahuah Despite Distress

“5. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted in me? Hope thou in Elohiym: for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance”

Insights: The psalmist speaks to his own soul, urging himself to have hope. The Hebrew word for “cast down” is שָׁחַח (shachach), meaning bowed down, depressed, or overwhelmed. The word “disquieted” comes from הָמָה (hamah), meaning to be restless or in turmoil. He reminds himself that despite his distress, Yahuah is still worthy of praise and will bring deliverance. The phrase “help of His countenance” implies that Yahuah’s presence brings restoration.

Cross References:
Tanakh (Old Testament):
Tehilliym (Psalms) 56:4 – “In Elohiym I will praise His Word, in Elohiym I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.”
Eykah (Lamentations) 3:24-26 – “Yahuah is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in Him. Yahuah is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of Yahuah.”

Brit Ha’Dasha (New Testament):
Romiyim (Romans) 5:3-5 – “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed.”
2 Qorintiym (Corinthians) 4:8-9 – “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”

Summary: The psalmist turns inward, addressing his own soul in a moment of despair. Though he feels overwhelmed and disturbed, he challenges himself to place his hope in Elohiym. This verse reflects the inner conflict between sorrow and faith, and models how to respond to emotional turmoil—by recalling Yahuah’s faithfulness and choosing to hope. The phrase “I shall yet praise Him” is a declaration of future worship, anchored in confidence that Yahuah’s presence—“the help of His countenance”—will bring restoration. This verse teaches that even in seasons of spiritual drought or distress, we must speak truth to ourselves and cling to the assurance of Elohiym’s deliverance.

Verses 6-7: Remembering Yahuah in the Midst of Trials

“6. O my Elohiym, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember Thee from the land of Yardan, and of the Hermoniym, from the hill Mitzar. 7. Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of Thy waterspouts: all Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over me.”

Insights:The psalmist acknowledges his distress but chooses to remember Yahuah from distant lands, possibly indicating exile or separation from the Temple. The Yardan, the Hermoniym, and Mitzar refer to northern regions, far from Yerushalayim, showing that the psalmist feels distant from the center of worship. In verse 7, the phrase “deep calleth unto deep” suggests overwhelming trials, likened to mighty waters consuming him. The waves and billows symbolize intense suffering, similar to Yonah’s prayer from the belly of the fish (Yonah 2:3).

Cross References:
Tanakh (Old Testament):
Yonah (Jonah) 2:3 – “For Thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all Thy billows and Thy waves passed over me.”
Tehilliym (Psalms) 77:11 – “I will remember the works of Yahuah: surely I will remember Thy wonders of old.”

Brit Ha’Dasha (New Testament):
Mattithyahu (Matthew) 14:30 – “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Master, save me.”
2 Timotheos (Timothy) 2:11-13 – “It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us: If we believe not, yet He abideth faithful: He cannot deny Himself.”

Summary: Feeling distant from Yahuah, the psalmist recalls Him from the land of Yardan, Hermoniym, and Mitzar, signifying separation from the Temple. The imagery “deep calleth unto deep” describes overwhelming trials, with cascading waves representing relentless suffering. The Hebrew word for “waterspouts” (צִנּוֹר, tzinor) refers to torrents or downpours, reinforcing the idea of being engulfed by hardship. This passage emphasizes that even in the depths of affliction, remembrance of Yahuah can provide strength and perseverance.

Verse 8: Yahuah’s Lovingkindness and Nighttime Songs

“8. Yet Yahuah will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the El of my life.”

Insights: Despite suffering, the psalmist recognizes Yahuah’s steadfast love. The word for “lovingkindness” is חֶסֶד (chesed), which refers to Yahuah’s covenant faithfulness and mercy. Even when circumstances seem dark, Yahuah’s “song” remains with him, signifying that worship and prayer are his refuge. The phrase “El of my life” shows that Yahuah is the sustainer of his existence.

Cross References:
Tanakh (Old Testament):
Tehilliym (Psalms) 77:6 – “I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.”
Devariym (Deuteronomy) 31:8 – “And Yahuah, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”

Brit Ha’Dasha (New Testament):
Ma’asiym (Acts) 16:25 – “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto Elohiym: and the prisoners heard them.“
Ephesiym (Ephesians) 5:19-20 – “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to Yahuah; giving thanks always for all things unto Elohiym and the Father in the Name of our Master Yahusha Ha’Mashiach.”

Summary: Despite ongoing suffering, the psalmist acknowledges Yahuah’s חֶסֶד (chesed), meaning steadfast love and covenant faithfulness. The phrase “His song shall be with me” suggests that even in trials, worship remains a source of strength. The Hebrew word for “command” (צָוָה, tsavah) signifies an authoritative decree, showing that Yahuah’s lovingkindness is not random but intentionally directed toward His people. This passage teaches that Yahuah’s presence remains constant, offering comfort through prayer and praise.

Verses 9-10: Questioning and Reproach from Enemies

“9. I will say unto Elohiym my rock, Why hast Thou forgotten me? Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? 10. As with a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach me; while they say daily unto me, Where is thy Elohiym?”

Insights: The psalmist wrestles with the feeling of abandonment, even as he calls Yahuah “my rock”—his foundation. His suffering is intensified by the oppression of enemies, who mock him and question Yahuah’s presence. The phrase “as with a sword in my bones” expresses deep emotional and spiritual pain. This mirrors Yahusha’s suffering when He was mocked on the stake, being asked why Elohiym did not save Him (Mattithyahu 27:43).

Cross References:
Tanakh (Old Testament):
Tehilliym (Psalms) 22:1 – “My El, My El, why hast Thou forsaken Me? Why art Thou so far from helping Me, and from the words of My roaring?”
Mishlei (Proverbs) 18:10 – “The Name of Yahuah is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”

Brit Ha’Dasha (New Testament):
Mattithyahu (Matthew) 27:43&46 – “He trusted in Elohiym; let Him deliver Him now, if He will have Him: for He said, I am the Son of Elohiym…And about the ninth hour Yahusha cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My El, My El, why hast Thou forsaken Me?”
Ivrim (Hebrews) 13:5-6 – “For He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, Yahuah is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.”

Summary: The psalmist questions why Yahuah seems absent, even as he acknowledges Him as “my rock”—a firm foundation. His suffering is intensified by mockery from enemies who repeatedly ask, “Where is thy Elohiym?” The phrase “as with a sword in my bones” conveys deep internal anguish, showing that verbal attacks can wound as deeply as physical pain. This passage reveals the struggle between faith and doubt, emphasizing that external opposition can challenge one’s trust in Yahuah, yet He remains a sure foundation.

Verse 11: Final Encouragement to Hope in Yahuah

“11. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in Elohiym: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my Elohiym.”

Insights: The psalmist repeats his earlier encouragement, showing that faith is a continuous battle. He reminds himself to place hope in Elohiym, knowing that praise will come again. The phrase “health of my countenance” (translated from יֵשׁוּעָה (yeshuah) meaning salvation) points to Yahuah as the ultimate deliverer. This closing verse leaves the reader with a call to trust in Yahuah, even when facing trials.

Cross References:
Tanakh (Old Testament):
Tehilliym (Psalms) 130:5 – “I wait for Yahuah, my soul doth wait, and in His word do I hope.”
Yesha’yahu (Isaiah) 40:31 – “But they that wait upon Yahuah shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

Brit Ha’Dasha (New Testament):
Romiyim (Romans) 8:24-25 – “For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?”
1 Kefa (Peter) 1:13 – “Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Yahusha Ha’Mashiach.”

Summary: The psalmist repeats his earlier self-exhortation, emphasizing that hope in Yahuah is the antidote to despair. The phrase “health of my countenance” (יֵשׁוּעָה, yeshuah) directly links to salvation, indicating that Yahuah alone brings restoration and joy. The Hebrew root קָוָה (qavah) for “hope” means to wait with expectation, reinforcing that deliverance is certain even if it is delayed. This passage teaches that faith is not the absence of struggle but the choice to trust in Yahuah despite it.

Conclusion: Tehilliym 42 is a beautiful expression of spiritual longing, despair, and unwavering hope. It reminds us that even in the darkest moments, Yahuah’s presence is near. The psalmist encourages us to speak to our own souls, reminding ourselves to trust in Elohiym. This message of perseverance and faith in suffering is timeless, pointing us to Yahusha Ha’Mashiach, who endured great distress yet placed His hope in the Father.

Tehilliym (Psalms) 43

A prayer for deliverance from the deceitful and for guidance by the light and truth of Elohiym.

Introduction:

Tehilliym 43 serves as a continuation of the themes expressed in Tehilliym 42. The psalmist pleads for Yahuah’s justice against his oppressors, expresses his longing to return to Yahuah’s dwelling place, and ultimately encourages himself to hope in Elohiym despite his distress.

Tehilliym 43 (KJV-YS):
Verses 1-2: A Plea for Justice and Deliverance

“1. Judge me, O Elohiym, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man. 2. For Thou art the Elohiym of my strength: why dost Thou cast me off? Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?”

Insights:The psalmist appeals to Yahuah for justice, asking Him to judge his case against an unrighteous nation and deliver him from deceitful men. The phrase “Judge me” implies a request for divine vindication. Though the psalmist acknowledges Elohiym as his strength, he struggles with the feeling of abandonment, asking why Yahuah seems to have cast him off. The tension between faith and despair is evident here, as he mourns under the oppression of his enemies.

Cross References Verses 1-2:
Tehilliym (Psalms) 35:1 – “Plead my cause, O Yahuah, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me.”
Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 33:22 – “For Yahuah is our judge, Yahuah is our lawgiver, Yahuah is our king; He will save us.”

Luqas (Luke) 18:7-8 – “And shall not Elohiym avenge His own elect, which cry day and night unto Him, though He bear long with them? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily.”

Romiyim (Romans) 8:33-34 – “Who shall lay anything to the charge of Elohiym’s elect? It is Elohiym that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Mashiach that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of Elohiym, who also maketh intercession for us.”

Summary: The psalmist appeals to Yahuah for justice and deliverance, expressing both confidence in Elohiym’s power and the sorrow of feeling forsaken. This passage teaches that Yahuah is the ultimate judge and deliverer, even when His justice seems delayed.

Verse 3: Seeking Yahuah’s Guidance

“3. O send out Thy light and Thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto Thy set-apart hill, and to Thy tabernacles.”

Insights:The psalmist desires Yahuah’s light and truth to guide him. The phrase “set-apart hill” refers to Mount Tsiyon, where Yahuah’s dwelling place was established. The tabernacles symbolize communion with Yahuah, showing that the psalmist’s ultimate desire is not just deliverance from his enemies, but restoration of worship and intimacy with Elohiym. Yahusha is the light of the world and everyone that follows after Him shall not walk in darkness.

Cross References Verse 3:
Tehilliym (Psalms) 119:105 – “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Mishlei (Proverbs) 4:18 – “But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.”

Yochanan (John) 8:12 – “Then spake Yahusha again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
Eph’siym (Ephesians) 5:8-9 – “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in Yahuah: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;).”

Summary: The psalmist prays for Yahuah’s light and truth to lead him back to His presence. This passage teaches that divine guidance leads to true worship and fellowship with Elohiym.

Verse 4: Restoring Joy in Worship

“4. Then will I go unto the altar of Elohiym, unto Elohiym my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise Thee, O Elohiym my Elohiym.”

Insights:The psalmist anticipates his return to the altar, where he will worship Elohiym with joy. The phrase “Elohiym my exceeding joy” emphasizes that Yahuah Himself is the ultimate source of our joy and gladness. The act of playing the harp signifies celebratory praise and devotion.

Cross References Verse 4:
Tehilliym (Psalms) 100:2 – “Serve Yahuah with gladness: come before His presence with singing.”
Nechemyah (Nehemiah) 8:10 – “For the joy of Yahuah is your strength.”

Ma’asiym (Acts) 16:25 – “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto Elohiym: and the prisoners heard them.”
Philippiym (Philippians) 4:4 – “Rejoice in Yahuah always: and again I say, Rejoice.”

Summary: The psalmist expresses confidence that he will worship Yahuah with joy again. This passage teaches that true joy is found in the presence of Elohiym and that worship renews the soul.

Verse 5: Hope in Elohiym Despite Trials

“5. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in Elohiym: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my Elohiym.”

Insights:The psalmist repeats the refrain from Tehilliym 42:5, 11, encouraging himself to trust in Elohiym despite his sorrow. The phrase “health of my countenance” literally refers to restoration and salvation. Even in distress, he declares that praise will come again.

Cross References Verse 5:
Tehilliym (Psalms) 27:14 – “Wait on Yahuah: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on Yahuah.”
Eykah (Lamentations) 3:21–23 – “This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of Yahuah’s mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness”

Romiyim (Romans) 15:13 – “Now the Elohiym of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Ruach Ha’Qodesh.”
2 Qorintiym (Corinthians) 4:16–18 – “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen…”

Summary: The psalmist reminds himself to trust in Yahuah and to look forward to praising Him again. This passage teaches that faith in Elohiym sustains the soul even in times of distress.

Conclusion: Tehilliym 43 continues the themes of longing for Yahuah, seeking justice, and battling despair with faith. The psalmist expresses his desire to return to worship, trusts in Yahuah’s guidance, and encourages himself to hope.

Self-Reflection Questions:

Tehilliym 42: Longing for Yahuah in Distress

1. Deep Longing for Yahuah’s Presence (Verses 1-2)

“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O Elohiym. My soul thirsteth for Elohiym, for the living Elohiym: when shall I come and appear before Elohiym?”