Psalms 107:9 (KJV)

What does Psalms 107:9 mean?

Psalms 107:9 says that God meets the deep needs of people who are longing and hungry, giving them satisfaction and filling them with good things. The verse highlights God’s care for those who feel empty or in need, showing that He provides what truly satisfies.

In the context of the psalm, the writer is reflecting on how God has rescued and cared for people in distress. The verse is part of a larger section where different groups of people are described as being in trouble, crying out to God, and then experiencing His help. Here, the focus is on God’s ability to meet both physical and spiritual needs, offering real goodness to those who seek Him.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 107:9

• "satisfieth" (שָׂבַע, sāva‘) means to fill or satisfy to the full, often used for being filled with food or abundance. Here, it emphasizes that God doesn’t just give a little, but completely satisfies those who are longing.
• "longing" (שָׁקֵק, shaqeq) refers to someone who is deeply yearning or craving, often with a sense of desperation. This word highlights the intensity of the need being described.
• "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh) is a broad word for life, self, or inner being. In this verse, it points to the whole person, not just physical hunger but also emotional and spiritual longing.
• "goodness" (טוֹב, tov) means good things, well-being, or what is beneficial. It shows that what God provides is not just enough to get by, but is truly good and enriching.

Why Psalms 107:9 matters

• This verse clarifies that God’s care is not only for outward needs like food, but also for the inner needs of the soul—He is attentive to both.
• The language of longing and hunger connects to the broader theme of the psalm, where people in many kinds of trouble find help when they turn to God.
• Understanding the original words shows the depth of need being described and the completeness of God’s response, making the verse more personal and vivid.