Return, we beseech thee, O God of hosts: look down from heaven, and behold, and visit this vine;

PSALMS 80:14KJV
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Psalms 80:14 (KJV)

What does Psalms 80:14 mean?

Psalms 80:14 is a plea asking God, described as the "God of hosts," to return His attention to His people, look down from heaven, and care for them, pictured here as a vine needing His help. The verse expresses a deep longing for God to intervene and restore His favor after a time of hardship or neglect.

In this psalm, the speaker is likely a leader or representative of Israel, praying on behalf of the nation. The image of the vine refers to Israel itself, a common symbol in the Hebrew Scriptures. The request for God to "visit" the vine suggests a desire for God’s active involvement and protection, especially after a period when the people felt abandoned or under threat.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 80:14

  • "Return" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word often means to turn back or come again. Here, it is a heartfelt request for God to turn His attention back to His people, implying that they feel distant from Him.
  • "God" (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim): This is a general term for God, but paired with "of hosts" it emphasizes God's power over heavenly armies, underlining His ability to help.
  • "Hosts" (צָבָא, tsava): This word refers to armies or multitudes, stressing God's supreme authority and might.
  • "Visit" (פָּקַד, paqad): This verb can mean to attend to, care for, or intervene. In this context, it is a plea for God to personally come and help His people, not just observe from afar.
  • "Vine" (גֶּפֶן, gefen): The vine is a symbol for Israel, highlighting the people’s dependence on God for care and growth.

Why Psalms 80:14 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the people feel God has turned away, and their request is not just for help, but for restored relationship and attention from God Himself.
  • The use of the vine image ties this verse to other passages where Israel is described as a plant tended by God, helping readers connect the psalm to broader biblical themes.
  • The verse sets up the emotional tone for the rest of the psalm, showing the depth of longing and dependence the people have on God’s presence and intervention.

Where else these words appear

“vine” Hebrew H1612 · used in 53 verses

  • Genesis 40:9 And the chief butler told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, In my dream, behold, a vine was before me;
  • Psalms 128:3 Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table.
  • Ezekiel 15:2 Son of man, What is the vine tree more than any tree, or than a branch which is among the trees of the forest?

“down” Hebrew H5027 · used in 67 verses

  • Genesis 15:5 And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.
  • Psalms 13:3 Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;
  • Isaiah 38:11 I said, I shall not see the LORD, even the LORD, in the land of the living: I shall behold man no more with the inhabitants of the world.