Psalms 59:15 (KJV)

What does Psalms 59:15 mean?

Psalms 59:15 describes people wandering around in search of food, grumbling or complaining if they do not find enough to satisfy their hunger. The verse paints a picture of restless, unsatisfied people who are left unfulfilled.

In this psalm, David is speaking about his enemies, asking God to let them experience frustration and lack instead of victory. The setting is one of danger, as David is being hunted, and he is describing those who oppose him as desperate and unsatisfied, always searching but never content.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 59:15

• The word for "wander up and down" is נוּעַ (nu'a), which often means to move restlessly or stagger. This emphasizes the sense of aimless searching or instability.
• "Meat" comes from אָכַל (akal), meaning "food" or "something to eat." The focus is on basic needs, not luxury.
• "Grudge" is from לוּן (lun), which can mean to murmur, complain, or be discontented. This shows their attitude is not just hungry, but also resentful.
• "Satisfied" is from שָׂבַע (sava), meaning to be filled or have enough. The verse highlights that these people never reach a place of contentment.

Why Psalms 59:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that David is not just asking for his enemies to be defeated, but for them to experience ongoing frustration and emptiness, reflecting the consequences of their actions.
• The language shows a deeper level of judgment: not just physical hunger, but a restless, unsatisfied spirit.
• Understanding the original words helps us see that the verse is about more than physical needs; it is about a state of continual dissatisfaction and complaint.