Psalms 5 is one of the early morning prayers found in the Book of Psalms, attributed traditionally to King David. It reflects a deep longing for divine guidance and protection against enemies. The psalm begins with a plea for God to listen to the speaker's words and meditation, emphasizing the importance of communication with God during times of distress.

The structure of Psalm 5 can be broken down into several key themes:
1. **Invocation and Petition:** The psalmist opens by asking God to consider his lament and hear his cries for help, setting a tone of earnest supplication.
2. **Contrast between the Righteous and the Wicked:** There is a clear distinction made between the righteous, who are under God's protection, and the wicked, who are not. The psalmist expresses confidence that God dislikes wrongdoing and will not allow the deceitful to stand in His presence.
3. **God as Protector:** The psalm highlights God's role as a protector of the righteous. The speaker asks God to lead him in the right path, away from the snares and falsehoods spread by enemies.
4. **Blessings for the Righteous:** The psalm ends on a note of praise and trust, stating that those who take refuge in God will rejoice and be blessed.

The tone of Psalm 5 is both meditative and pleading, reflecting the psalmist's reliance on God's moral judgment and his faith that God will uphold those who are loyal and just. It is a powerful example of the personal and communal prayers found throughout the Psalms, expressing a range of human emotions from despair to profound peace and security under divine care.