Psalms 34:18 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

The LORD is close to those who have broken hearts, and he saves those who are humble and sorry for their sins.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

God is especially near to people when they're hurting deeply or feeling genuinely sorry for the wrong they've done.

📚 Historical Context

This psalm was written by David, likely during one of his times of distress when he was being pursued by enemies. The Hebrew concept of a 'broken heart' refers to deep emotional pain and humility before God. In ancient Israel, being 'contrite' meant having a crushed spirit that recognized one's need for God's mercy and forgiveness.

Explore Similar Verses

Psalms 51:17

The sacrifice God wants is a broken spirit—a heart that is crushed and truly sorry. O God, you will never reject a heart like that.

Isaiah 57:15

This is what the high and mighty One says—the One who lives forever and whose name is Holy: 'I live in the high and holy place, but I also live with those who have broken and humble hearts, to give new life to the spirit of the humble and to refresh the hearts of those who are truly sorry for their sins.'

Isaiah 61:1

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has chosen me to bring good news to the humble and poor. He has sent me to heal those whose hearts are broken, to announce freedom to those who are prisoners, and to open the prison doors for those who are trapped.

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