61:5 For you, O God, hear my vows;
you grant me the reward that belongs to your loyal followers. 1
61:6 Give the king long life!
Make his lifetime span several generations! 2
61:7 May he reign 3 forever before God!
Decree that your loyal love and faithfulness should protect him. 4
1 tn Heb “you grant the inheritance of those who fear your name.” “Inheritance” is normally used of land which is granted as an inheritance; here it refers metaphorically to the blessings granted God’s loyal followers. To “fear” God’s name means to have a healthy respect for his revealed reputation which in turn motivates one to obey God’s commands (see Ps 86:11).
2 tn Heb “days upon days of the king add, his years like generation and generation.”
3 tn Heb “sit [enthroned].” The prefixed verbal form is understood as a jussive here, expressing the psalmist’s prayer.
4 tn Heb “loyal love and faithfulness appoint, let them protect him.”