Psalms 38:17 (KJV)

What does Psalms 38:17 mean?

Psalms 38:17 expresses the psalmist’s deep sense of weakness and ongoing grief, saying he is “ready to halt” and that his sorrow is always with him. The verse shows someone feeling overwhelmed by trouble and unable to move forward, with sadness that does not go away.

King David is speaking in this psalm, crying out to God during a time of suffering—possibly from illness, guilt, or enemies. The phrase “ready to halt” suggests David feels close to collapsing or giving up, while his “sorrow” is a constant burden he cannot escape. This verse gives a glimpse into David’s emotional and physical pain, setting the tone for his honest prayers throughout the psalm.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 38:17

• “Ready” (כּוּן, kun): This word often means “prepared” or “set,” but here it points to being on the verge of something—David is at the point of stumbling or failing.
• “Halt” (לָצֵלַע, latsela): This word is used for limping or being crippled. David is not just tired; he feels spiritually or emotionally lame, unable to walk steadily.
• “Sorrow” (מַכְאוֹב, makh’ov): This word means pain, suffering, or grief. It is not just sadness but a deep, ongoing hurt.
• “Continually” (תָּמִיד, tamid): This word means always or constantly. David’s sorrow is not a passing feeling—it is ever-present.

Why Psalms 38:17 matters

• This verse helps readers understand the depth of David’s struggle, showing that even faithful people can feel overwhelmed and broken.
• The language of limping and constant pain connects to the wider psalm, where David describes both physical and emotional suffering, making his prayer more relatable.
• By using strong words for weakness and ongoing sorrow, the verse highlights the honesty and vulnerability in David’s relationship with God, encouraging readers to bring their real struggles to prayer.