Psalms 107:5 (KJV)

What does Psalms 107:5 mean?

Psalms 107:5 describes people who are physically hungry and thirsty, to the point that their inner life or spirit feels weak and exhausted. The verse paints a picture of deep need and weariness, showing how desperate their situation has become.

This verse is part of a psalm recounting times when groups of people faced severe hardships, often as a result of wandering or exile. The speaker is describing the experience of those who have lost their way and are struggling to survive, emphasizing just how dire their circumstances are. The focus is on the real, physical suffering and the toll it takes on a person’s whole being.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 107:5

• "Hungry" (רָעֵב, raʿev): This word means lacking food, but it can also suggest a deep, gnawing need. The verse uses it to show a very real, physical emptiness.
• "Thirsty" (צָמֵא, tsame): This word means lacking water, and in the ancient world, thirst was a life-threatening danger. The verse highlights just how desperate the situation is.
• "Soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh): Often translated as "life" or "inner being," this word here points to the whole person, not just emotions or thoughts. Their entire being is affected by hunger and thirst.
• "Fainted" (תַּעֲטֹף, taʿatof): This word carries the idea of being overwhelmed, weak, or fainting away. It shows that the people’s strength and hope are nearly gone.

Why Psalms 107:5 matters

• The verse helps readers see that the psalm is describing real, physical suffering, not just spiritual emptiness. This grounds the story in everyday human experience.
• By using the word "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh), the verse shows that hardship affects a person’s whole self, not just their body.
• This verse sets up the pattern in the psalm: people in desperate need cry out to God, and God responds. Understanding their deep need makes the rest of the psalm’s message about rescue and gratitude more powerful.