Bible Strands
Habakkuk 3:1
This is a prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, according to Shigionoth:
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Habakkuk, identified as a prophet, introduces a composition directed to God. The text places this declaration at the opening of chapter 3, immediately preceding a petition for God to revive His deeds and remember mercy.
The words — The Hebrew תְּפִלָּה (tefillah) translates literally as "a prayer," while שִׁגְיֹנֹת (shigionoth) functions as a musical or poetic heading. These terms frame the following verses as a structured liturgical response.
The thread — The designation "shigionoth" appears in Psalm 7:1 as "shiggaion," and the phrase "prayer of [figure]" structurally parallels Psalm 86:1 and Psalm 90:1. These references establish a pattern of compositions marked by specific liturgical instructions.
Why it lands — The verse demands recognition that the subsequent revelation is a formal prayer rather than mere prophecy. It requires the reader to approach the chapter as a directed address to God, framed by established worship conventions.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet upon Shigionoth.
Cross-references
- Psalms 7:1 A Shiggaion of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning the words of Cush, a Benjamite. O LORD my God, I take refuge in You; save me and deliver me from all my pursuers,
- Psalms 86:1 A prayer of David. Incline Your ear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.
- Psalms 90:1 A prayer of Moses the man of God. Lord, You have been our dwelling place through all generations.