Psalms 141:1 (KJV)

What does Psalms 141:1 mean?

Psalms 141:1 shows David urgently calling out to the LORD, asking God to listen and respond quickly as he prays. The verse highlights David’s sense of need and his trust that God hears him when he cries out.

David is the speaker, addressing the LORD directly in a moment of trouble or distress. The verse sets the tone for the rest of the psalm, showing a personal and immediate plea for God’s attention. David’s words reveal both his dependence on God and his belief that God is attentive to his voice.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 141:1

• LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name for God used in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a close, covenant relationship rather than a distant deity.
• cry (קָרָא, qara): This word means to call out loudly, often in desperation or earnestness. David is not making a casual request but is urgently seeking God’s help.
• haste (חָשַׁה, chush): This word means to hurry or come quickly. David is asking God not just to listen, but to act without delay.
• ear (אֹזֶן, ozen): This refers to listening attentively, suggesting David wants God’s full attention to his prayer.
• voice (קוֹל, qol): This word can mean both the literal sound and the message or plea itself, highlighting that David wants God to pay attention to both his words and his distress.

Why Psalms 141:1 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that prayer in the Psalms is often deeply personal and urgent, not just formal or ritualistic.
• The emphasis on God’s name (Yahweh) and David’s direct address shows the close relationship between the psalmist and God.
• The verse introduces the theme of the entire psalm: seeking God’s immediate help and attentive care in times of trouble.