God shall hear, and afflict them, even he that abideth of old. Selah. Because they have no changes, therefore they fear not God.

PSALMS 55:19KJV
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Psalms 55:19 (KJV)

What does Psalms 55:19 mean?

Psalms 55:19 says that God will listen and respond to those who oppose the psalmist, because these opponents never change their ways and do not respect God. The verse points out that God, who has always existed, will act against people who stubbornly refuse to fear Him.

In this psalm, David is speaking about his distress over betrayal and enemies. He expresses confidence that God (not just any god, but the eternal one) hears his prayers and will deal with those who remain unchanged in their wrongdoing. The mention of "no changes" highlights the stubbornness of these people, and "Selah" signals a pause to reflect on the seriousness of God's judgment.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 55:19

  • God (אֵל, 'el): This word emphasizes God's power and might, highlighting that it is the strong and eternal God who will act.
  • hear (שָׁמַע, shama'): The sense here is not just listening, but paying attention and responding, showing that God is actively involved.
  • afflict (עָנָה, anah): This word often means to answer or respond, not just to punish. Here, it suggests God will reply to the situation, possibly by humbling or dealing with the enemies.
  • changes (חָלִיף, chalif): This word means change or alteration. The verse points out that the enemies do not change their ways, which is why they do not fear or respect God.

Why Psalms 55:19 matters

  • The verse clarifies that God’s response is not random; it is tied to the persistent refusal of some people to change or show reverence for Him.
  • It connects to the larger theme of the psalm, where David trusts God to handle betrayal and injustice, even when it seems like the wicked prosper.
  • The use of "Selah" invites readers to pause and consider the weight of God’s enduring presence and judgment, emphasizing that God’s justice is rooted in His eternal character.

Where else these words appear

“changes” Hebrew H2487 · used in 11 verses

  • Genesis 45:22 To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment.
  • Judges 14:19 And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, and slew thirty men of them, and took their spoil, and gave change of garments unto them which expounded the riddle. And his anger was kindled, and he went up to his father's house.
  • 2 Kings 5:22 And he said, All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments.

“Selah” Hebrew H5542 · used in 74 verses

  • Psalms 3:2 Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
  • Psalms 49:15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah.
  • Psalms 76:9 When God arose to judgment, to save all the meek of the earth. Selah.

“old” Hebrew H6924 · used in 83 verses

  • Genesis 2:8 And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed.
  • Joshua 18:20 And Jordan was the border of it on the east side. This was the inheritance of the children of Benjamin, by the coasts thereof round about, according to their families.
  • Psalms 143:5 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.