Psalms 86:6 (KJV)

What does Psalms 86:6 mean?

Psalms 86:6 is a plea from the psalmist, asking the LORD to listen closely and pay attention to his prayers and urgent requests. The verse expresses a deep longing for God to hear and respond to the psalmist’s heartfelt cries for help.

In this verse, David is speaking directly to the LORD, using personal language to express his need and dependence. The situation is one of distress or trouble, where David feels the need to call out repeatedly. The verse highlights not just a single prayer, but multiple “supplications,” showing persistence and earnestness in seeking God’s attention.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 86:6

• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a direct and covenant relationship between David and God.
• prayer (תְּפִלָּה, tefillah): This word refers to a formal or spoken prayer, showing that David is intentionally directing his words to God.
• supplications (תַּחֲנוּן, tachanun): This term often means earnest requests for mercy, highlighting the humble and urgent tone of David’s approach.
• attend (הַקְשִׁיבָה, haqshivah): This word means to pay close attention or listen carefully, suggesting David’s hope that God will not just hear, but truly focus on his needs.

Why Psalms 86:6 matters

• The verse shows that it is appropriate to bring repeated and urgent requests to God, not just single prayers, reflecting a real and ongoing relationship.
• By using both “prayer” and “supplications,” the verse highlights the depth and variety of ways a person can approach God, from formal prayers to desperate pleas for mercy.
• The verse connects to the wider psalm, where David consistently turns to God as his only source of help, emphasizing trust and dependence in times of trouble.