Tehilim Perek 50

Welcome to NachDaily, covering the entire TANACH one perek at a time. I’m Rabbi Shaya Sussman, and today we’ll be discussing Tehilim, Chapter 50.

This perek continues the theme of the ultimate Judgment Day, and begins with

the words, Mizmor L’Asaf. Who was Asaf?

Some Meforshim learn that he was one of Korach’s children who merited singing because he was a Torah scholar.

Other Meforshim, however, claim that he was a prophet who lived in the times of Dovid.

The perek opens by informing us that God will tell the entire world of the beauty of Tzion. He will also show His omnipotence, and all will see that He is the ultimate Judge.

In verse 7, the author relates God’s greatness, telling us that God, who owns the whole world, doesn’t need our superficial sacrifices. He wants a relationship with us, and wants us to be open and honest with Him.

In a similar vein, God harshly criticizes those who learn Torah but don’t actually practice or embody its spirit and message. Our learning needs to come alive! It is not meant to be used to bolster our self-esteem and allow us to look down at others who don’t think the same way as we do.

Our Torah learning should be used to build people up, to create peace and harmony, not to divide our nation or create dissension.

Verse 15 says:

וּ֭קְרָאֵנִי בְּי֣וֹם צָרָ֑ה אֲ֝חַלֶּצְךָ֗ וּֽתְכַבְּדֵֽנִי׃

Call upon Me in time of trouble; I will rescue you, and you shall honor Me.

The Radak explains that “honor Me” means to do My mitzvos. If you do them properly, then call out to Me, and I will save you.

What is the connection between the beginning and end of the passuk? Rashi answers that when Hashem saves the people who trust in Him, it somehow brings out His glory.

By recognizing God’s help, we will have renewed confidence to trust in Him. This is what increases Hashem’s kavod.

Rav Nosson explains that people need to believe with perfect faith that God hears each and every word emanating from the mouth of every Jew.

We all have the power to make an imprint and effect change when God answers our prayers, and must constantly strengthen the belief that they have this ability. As our passuk says, “Call out to Me, and I will answer you!”

Thank you for listening, and have a wonderful day.