Psalms 17:5 (KJV)

What does Psalms 17:5 mean?

Psalms 17:5 is a prayer asking God to keep the speaker’s life steady and secure, so that he does not stumble or go astray from God’s ways. The verse uses the image of walking on a path to describe living faithfully and avoiding moral missteps.

In this psalm, David is speaking to God, asking for help as he faces trouble and opposition. David’s request to “hold up my goings in thy paths” shows his desire for God’s guidance and support, so that his “footsteps slip not.” The verse highlights David’s dependence on God to keep him upright and faithful, especially when life is uncertain or difficult.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 17:5

• “Hold up” (תָּמֹךְ, tamokh) means to support or steady. David is not just asking for direction, but for God to actively keep him from falling.
• “Goings” (מַעֲגָל, ma‘agal) refers to the course or track of one’s life, suggesting a journey or pattern of living, not just a single step.
• “Paths” (מַעְגָּל, ma‘gal) often points to a well-worn, reliable way, emphasizing the desire to stay on a trustworthy route.
• “Footsteps” (פְּעָמִים, pe‘amim) highlights each individual step, showing that David is concerned about both his overall direction and his daily choices.
• “Slip” (מוֹט, mot) means to totter or waver, painting a picture of losing balance or stability, not just a minor misstep.

Why Psalms 17:5 matters

• This verse clarifies that David’s concern is not just about avoiding obvious wrongdoing, but about staying steady and faithful in every part of life, even in small steps.
• The imagery of walking a path connects to a common biblical theme: life as a journey where God’s guidance is needed at every turn.
• By asking God to “hold up” his steps, David shows humility and dependence, recognizing that human strength alone is not enough to stay upright in the face of challenges.