Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the LORD hath dealt bountifully with thee.

PSALMS 116:7KJV
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Psalms 116:7 (KJV)

What does Psalms 116:7 mean?

Psalms 116:7 is a call for the speaker’s own soul to return to a state of peace and calm, because the LORD has been generous and kind. The verse expresses a turning point from distress to reassurance, rooted in the experience of God’s goodness.

The psalmist is speaking to himself after a time of trouble, encouraging his own soul to rest because of the LORD’s care. This verse comes after recounting hardship and deliverance, so it marks a moment of relief and gratitude. The focus is on personal restoration and the confidence that comes from seeing God’s help.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 116:7

  • "Return" (שׁוּבָה, shuvah): This word often means to turn back or return to a previous state. Here, it suggests the soul is being called to go back to a place of rest it once knew, highlighting a recovery of peace after turmoil.
  • "Rest" (מְנוּחָה, menuchah): This word means a place or condition of settled rest, quietness, or security. The psalmist is not just asking for a pause, but for a deep, settled peace.
  • "Soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh): This word refers to the inner self or life of a person, not just emotions but the whole being. The psalmist is addressing his entire self, not just his feelings.
  • "Bountifully" (גָּמַל, gamal): This word means to deal fully or generously with someone. The psalmist is recognizing that the LORD has not just helped, but has done so with abundance and kindness.

Why Psalms 116:7 matters

  • Psalms 116:7 shows that it is normal for a person of faith to speak honestly to their own soul, especially after hardship, and to seek rest in God’s goodness.
  • The verse emphasizes that true rest comes not from circumstances, but from recognizing how the LORD has acted generously.
  • This verse connects to the wider psalm, which moves from distress and prayer to thanksgiving, showing a personal journey from trouble to trust.

Where else these words appear

“rest” Hebrew H4494 · used in 7 verses

  • Genesis 8:9 But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark.
  • Ruth 3:1 Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?
  • Isaiah 34:14 The wild beasts of the desert shall also meet with the wild beasts of the island, and the satyr shall cry to his fellow; the screech owl also shall rest there, and find for herself a place of rest.

“bountifully” Hebrew H1580 · used in 32 verses

  • Genesis 21:8 And the child grew, and was weaned: and Abraham made a great feast the same day that Isaac was weaned.
  • 2 Samuel 22:21 The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness: according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.
  • Psalms 142:7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.