Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us.
PSALMS 123:2KJVWhat does Psalms 123:2 mean?
Psalms 123:2 uses the image of servants and a maiden watching their masters’ and mistress’s hands to describe how the people look to the LORD for help and mercy. The verse expresses a posture of dependence and expectation, showing that the people are waiting patiently for God to act kindly toward them.
The speaker is the psalmist, representing a group (likely Israel) who are addressing God in prayer. The setting is one of need or distress, where the people see themselves as completely reliant on God’s favor, just as servants depend on their masters for direction and provision. The verse highlights humility and trust, showing that the people are looking to God alone for relief.
The Hebrew behind Psalms 123:2
- eyes (עַיִן, ‘ayin): This word appears several times, emphasizing the act of watching closely and attentively. The repetition underlines the intensity and focus of the people’s hope in God.
- hand (יָד, yad): In this context, “hand” refers to the source of action, provision, or signal. Servants would watch a master’s hand for a gesture or sign, just as the people wait for God’s action.
- mercy (חָנַן, chanan): This word means to show favor or be gracious. The people are not demanding but are waiting for God to show kindness out of His own will.
Why Psalms 123:2 matters
- The verse clarifies that the people’s hope is not in their own strength or other sources, but in God alone, much like servants have no other provider but their master.
- The imagery of watching the hand highlights a readiness to respond and a deep dependence, not just passive waiting.
- This verse connects to the wider psalm, which is a prayer for mercy in the face of contempt or hardship, showing a humble, trusting approach to God.