Psalms 41:2 (KJV)

What does Psalms 41:2 mean?

Psalms 41:2 describes the LORD’s care for a person who considers the poor. It presents that person’s life and well-being as being under God’s protection, even when enemies want to harm him.

After speaking about that person in verse 1, the psalm moves from “the LORD” to addressing God as “thou.” The phrase “the will of his enemies” pictures what the enemies want to do to him.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 41:2

• “preserve” — שָׁמַר (shamar): This word often means to guard or watch over. Here it gives a picture of active care, rather than simply leaving someone unharmed.
• “will” — נֶפֶשׁ (nephesh): This word can refer to a person’s life or self, and also to desire. Here it points to what the enemies want for the person.

Why Psalms 41:2 matters

• The blessing is connected with concern for people in need. Verse 1 calls the person “he that considereth the poor,” and verse 2 continues to speak about him.
• The verse speaks of well-being in the present world. The KJV says the person “shall be blessed upon the earth,” placing the blessing in earthly life.
• The psalm holds danger and confidence together. In verse 3, the person is pictured on a “bed of languishing,” while the LORD sustains him there.