But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer.

PSALMS 66:19KJV
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Psalms 66:19 (KJV)

What does Psalms 66:19 mean?

Psalms 66:19 says that God truly listened and paid attention to the psalmist’s prayer. The verse expresses confidence that God not only hears but also responds to those who reach out to Him in prayer.

The writer of this psalm is speaking directly about his own experience, likely after being delivered from trouble. He is sharing with others that his prayers were not ignored; instead, God was attentive and caring. This verse sits within a larger song of praise, where the psalmist invites others to see how God responds to sincere prayers.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 66:19

  • The word “verily” comes from אָכֵן (’ākhēn, H403), which is often used to stress certainty or truth. Here, it highlights the psalmist’s strong assurance that God really did hear him.
  • “God” is אֱלֹהִים (’elohim, H430), a common Hebrew word for God that often emphasizes His power and authority.
  • “Heard” is שָׁמַע (shāma‘, H8085), which means more than just hearing sounds—it often includes the idea of listening with intent or responding.
  • “Attended” is קָשַׁב (qāshav, H7181), meaning to pay close attention or give careful heed, showing that God was not distracted or indifferent.
  • “Voice” is קוֹל (qōl, H6963), which can mean sound, voice, or cry, emphasizing the personal nature of the prayer.
  • “Prayer” is תְּפִלָּה (tefillah, H8605), the general Hebrew word for prayer, often used for earnest requests or petitions to God.

Why Psalms 66:19 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that God is distant or uninterested; it emphasizes that God listens actively and personally to prayer.
  • Psalms 66:19 highlights the relationship between the psalmist and God, showing that prayer is not just a ritual but a real conversation where God is attentive.
  • In the context of the psalm, this verse reassures readers that God’s care is not just for the psalmist but is available to anyone who seeks Him sincerely.

Where else these words appear

“verily” Hebrew H403 · used in 17 verses

  • Genesis 28:16 And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not.
  • Psalms 31:22 For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee.
  • Isaiah 53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

“attended” Hebrew H7181 · used in 45 verses

  • 1 Samuel 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
  • Proverbs 2:2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;
  • Isaiah 49:1 Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far; The LORD hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name.

“prayer” Hebrew H8605 · used in 70 verses

  • 2 Samuel 7:27 For thou, O LORD of hosts, God of Israel, hast revealed to thy servant, saying, I will build thee an house: therefore hath thy servant found in his heart to pray this prayer unto thee.
  • Nehemiah 11:17 And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, was the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer: and Bakbukiah the second among his brethren, and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.
  • Psalms 102:17 He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer.