תהלים, פרק ע״א, פסוק כ״א

A person emerging from a deep crisis often hopes simply to return to normal. Yet, a profound prayer reaches further, seeking a reality where mere survival gives way to divine abundance and comfort. The plea made to God is not just for an escape from hardship or exile, but for a significant elevation of one's previous state. The primary approach among commentators is that this is a request for God to elevate the petitioner's standing to a level even greater than it was before the crisis struck [רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. This desire for personal greatness mirrors the recognition of the great acts God Himself has performed [אבן עזרא]. Taking a unique perspective, one view suggests that the pain and suffering endured are the very catalysts that lead to this newfound greatness [אלשיך].

Alongside the request for growth is a deep need for renewed closeness. During periods of suffering and exile, there is often a painful sense that God has hidden His face and turned away. Therefore, the prayer asks God to turn His face back, seeking His renewed presence and attention toward His people [רד״ק, מאירי, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The plea concludes with a request for true comfort to heal the wounds of past troubles and hardships [אבן עזרא, מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. This highlights God's exceptional love and double kindness. Even if the suffering was the necessary path to achieve growth and greatness, God does not simply leave the person with the positive result. He goes a step further, offering complete comfort for the actual pain and sorrow the sufferer had to endure along the way [אלשיך].