Psalms 69:17 (KJV)

What does Psalms 69:17 mean?

Psalms 69:17 is a plea from the psalmist, asking God not to turn away or ignore him, but to respond quickly because he is in deep distress. The verse expresses urgent need and a longing for God’s attention and help during a time of trouble.

King David is speaking to God in this psalm, describing a moment when he feels overwhelmed and desperate. David calls himself God’s servant and asks God not to "hide" His "face," a phrase that means not to withdraw His presence or favor. The request for God to "hear me speedily" shows how immediate and pressing David’s situation feels, highlighting his dependence on God’s response.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 69:17

• "Hide" (סָתַר, satar): This word means to conceal or cover. In this context, David is asking God not to withdraw or make Himself inaccessible, which would leave David feeling abandoned.
• "Face" (פָּנִים, panim): Often used in the Hebrew Bible to refer to God’s presence or favor. David’s request not to hide God’s "face" is a plea for continued relationship and attention.
• "Servant" (עֶבֶד, eved): By calling himself a servant, David emphasizes humility and his position of dependence on God.
• "Trouble" (צָרָה, tsarah): This word means distress or adversity. It highlights the seriousness of David’s situation and why he needs God’s urgent help.
• "Hear" (עָנָה, anah): This verb can mean to answer or respond. David is not just asking God to listen, but to actively respond to his cry.
• "Speedily" (מַהֵר, maher): This word adds urgency, showing that David feels he cannot wait; he needs God’s intervention right away.

Why Psalms 69:17 matters

• The verse clarifies that feeling distant from God or fearing His absence is a real and honest part of faith, not a sign of failure.
• It highlights how biblical prayers often include both respect ("servant") and raw honesty ("I am in trouble"), showing that both belong in a relationship with God.
• This plea fits into the wider psalm, which is full of distress and calls for help, making it a key example of how the Bible gives voice to human suffering and the hope for God’s response.