Definition: O LORD, truly I [am] thy servant; I [am] thy servant, [and] the son of thine handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and powerful verse from Psalm 116:16. It’s a really poignant moment in the book of Psalms! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it’s about recognizing God’s favor and being valued by Him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “O LORD, truly I [am] thy servant…” : This is a direct acknowledgment of the speaker’s dependence on God. It's saying "I am your servant" – you know that you are relying on him for help and guidance. “…I [am] thy servant, [and] the son of thine handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.” : This is where it gets really significant. Let’s break this down further: “the son of thine handmaid” : This is a metaphorical way of saying you are chosen or special . “Handmaid” in the ancient world meant a woman who was closely connected to a man, and often entrusted with his care and well-being. So, this phrase suggests that God has chosen you – given you something precious. “Thou hast loosed my bonds” : This is the core of the verse. "Thou" means "you," and “loosed my bonds" means released from a difficult or painful situation. It speaks to being freed from oppression, hardship, or perhaps even despair. So, putting it all together: The speaker is expressing gratitude for God's favor and recognizing that He has released them from any struggle or burden they might be facing. It’s a statement of profound relief and appreciation. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse often appears in the context of David experiencing hardship – perhaps imprisoned, exiled, or facing great challenges. It’s a moment of deep humility and recognition of God's love and protection. It’s a powerful expression of faith and trust. Does that make sense? Would you like me to: Explain its significance in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse might be used today?