King James Version
Psalm 6
Recognized historically as the first of the seven Penitential Psalms, Psalm 6 is an earnest individual lament expressing deep physical agony, grief, and exhaustion. The speaker describes nights spent weeping on a tear soaked bed while suffering under distress, pleading for healing and relief before death takes away the chance to offer praise. The mood shifts remarkably near the end as sorrow yields to confidence that supplications have been heard and answered. Placed among the opening laments of the Psalter, it validates human vulnerability and honest sorrow. The turning point is captured in the statement, "The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer."
1 O LORD, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.
2 Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.
3 My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O LORD, how long?
4 Return, O LORD, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies’ sake.
5 For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?
6 I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears.
7 Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies.
8 Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping.
9 The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.
10 Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly.
GO DEEPER
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