Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Psalms

Psalms 
Day 
Day 49

"A Meditation ("shiggaion") of David"

Day 49 – Psalm 7

“A Meditation (“shiggaion”) of David” Psalm 7

AN ENIGMATIC SUPERSCRIPTION

Sometimes superscriptions are helpful. Sometimes they are enigmatic. The superscription attached to this psalm is certainly enigmatic for the following reasons. Let us first consider the full superscription.

“A Meditation (“shiggaion”) of David, which he sang
to the LORD concerning the words of Cush, a Benjamite.”

1. The translation of the word “shiggaion” to “meditation”

a) The original Hebrew word suggests lots more emotion than the quiet word “meditation”.
b) David was in an emotional turmoil as he reacted to the words of Cush, a Benjamite.
c) The elements behind the word “shiggaion” includes the thought of being deeply affected, of reeling under the blow of the attack of Cush.

2. Who is Cush the Benjamite?

a) The Biblical-historical records offer no word on the identity of this man.
b) From the phrase “Cush the Benjamite” we may surmise the following:-
i) He was from the house of Saul (or at least from his tribe).
ii) He was loyal to Saul to the very end.
iii) He attacked David as if he was a usurper of the throne. (Shimei who was of the household of Saul was an example of one who attacked David when he fled from Absalom… Cf. 2 Samuel 16:5-14)

3. He sang to the LORD

a) Psalm 7 was probably sung as a solo by David himself.
b) The word “shiggaion” is probably better transliterated than translated as “meditation”.
c) The word would suggest how this song ought to be sung:-
i) It is to be sung with deep emotion.
ii) It is to be sung to the Lord with expression of deep struggles of faith.
iii) It is best sung as a solo piece.
iv) The psalm must end on a triumphant note of praise to the Lord (Psalm 7:17).