Psalms 38:11 (KJV)

What does Psalms 38:11 mean?

Psalms 38:11 describes how the writer’s closest loved ones and friends keep their distance from him during his suffering, and even his relatives stay far away. The verse shows the deep loneliness and isolation the speaker feels when he is in pain.

King David is speaking in this psalm, describing a time of personal distress, likely due to illness or trouble. He notes that those who would normally be close—his “lovers,” “friends,” and “kinsmen”—are not offering support but instead are avoiding him. This highlights not just physical suffering, but also the emotional pain of abandonment by those he trusted most.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 38:11

• “lovers” (אָהַב, ’ahav): This word often means those who love or are dearly loved, sometimes used for close companions or even romantic partners. Here, it stresses that even those with deep affection for David have withdrawn.
• “friends” (רֵעַ, re‘a): This term refers to companions or associates, suggesting that not just intimate loved ones but also ordinary friends are keeping away.
• “sore” (נֶגַע, nega‘): This word means a physical blow, wound, or plague. It shows that David’s suffering is visible and severe, possibly making others afraid to come near.
• “kinsmen” (קָרוֹב, qarov): This word means those who are near by blood, like family members. Their distance intensifies the sense of abandonment, as even family does not come close.

Why Psalms 38:11 matters

• Psalms 38:11 clarifies that David’s suffering is not just physical but also deeply relational—he feels abandoned by everyone, even those expected to care for him.
• The verse connects to the wider psalm, where David is honest about his pain and sin, showing that feelings of isolation can be part of spiritual struggle.
• This verse helps readers understand that even faithful people can feel deserted in hard times, and that such feelings are honestly expressed in the Bible.