What does Psalms 102:17 mean?

He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer. Psalms 102:17

Explanation

Psalm 102:17 speaks powerfully to the heart of God’s compassion and responsiveness to human suffering. The verse, “[He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer,]” asserts that God listens attentively to those who are impoverished, desperate, or in a state of destitution. The verse conveys a sense of assurance that God does not ignore or trivialize the prayers of those in dire need. The literal meaning is straightforward: God pays attention to and values the prayers of the destitute. On a deeper level, this verse affirms the biblical theme that God has a special concern for the marginalized and acts as a guardian of the vulnerable.

Historical Context

Psalms is a book of the Old Testament comprising a collection of religious verses, mostly attributed to King David. Psalm 102, categorized as a “Psalm of Lament,” reflects a time of great distress and sorrow. The exact historical context is not concretely known but is often interpreted as the period of the Babylonian exile when the Jewish people were taken captive and Jerusalem was destroyed. The Psalmist may be expressing the collective despair and longing of the people for deliverance and restoration.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse is seen as a testament to God’s grace and unconditional love. It also resonates with the New Testament message that Jesus Christ identifies with the poor and downtrodden. Furthermore, different theological viewpoints might emphasize God’s omniscience and omnipresence—suggesting that God’s awareness encompasses all human suffering, and no prayer is unheard or insignificant.

Practical Applications

Practically, Psalm 102:17 encourages individuals to approach God in prayer, regardless of their situation. It serves as a reminder to the faithful to never deem themselves unworthy of God’s attention. Moreover, it challenges believers to emulate God’s compassion, urging them to regard and respond to the plight of those who are less fortunate in society.

Cross-References

• Psalm 34:17: “[The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.]”
• Psalm 145:18: “[The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.]”
• James 5:4: “[Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.]”

Language Study

The key words to analyze in the original Hebrew text of Psalm 102:17 are:

• “regard” (תפלּה/tefillah) generally pertains to prayer but can also mean an intercession or supplication.
• “destitute” (ערער/’evyon) denotes poverty, need, or someone who is poor and weak.
• “despise” (בזה/bazah) implies a strong sense of contempt or disdain.

These words help convey the depth of the message that God’s care and attention toward the prayer of the needy is profound and unwavering.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient cultures, many Near Eastern religions also included gods who were believed to be protectors of the poor and the oppressed. For instance, in Sumerian tradition, the goddess Inanna was seen as a defender of those in need. However, the monotheistic framework of Judaism and later Christianity positions God as the sole and ultimate source of comfort and justice for the destitute.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives may not directly apply to this spiritually focused verse. However, studies in psychology have highlighted the benefits of prayer and meditation in coping with stress and adversity, which intersects with the idea that prayer can be a source of comfort for the destitute or troubled.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various insights into this verse. Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes that God’s willingness to hear prayer is a comfort to those under afflictions. John Calvin speaks to the foundations of hope being in God’s providence and mercy. Contemporary commentaries may discuss the relevance of prayer in today’s society and reaffirm the role of faith in providing solace for those in hardship.