King James Version

What Does Psalms 107:20 Mean?

Psalms 107:20 in the King James Version says “He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 107 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

Psalms 107:20 · KJV


Context

18

Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death.

19

Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses.

20

He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

21

Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

22

And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing. rejoicing: Heb. singing


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse describes God's healing method. 'He sent his word, and healed them' emphasizes the power of God's word. 'Sent' (shalach, שָׁלַח) means to dispatch or send forth. God's word goes forth with power to accomplish His purposes (Isaiah 55:10-11). 'And delivered them from their destructions' uses malat (מָלַט), meaning to escape or slip away from—they're rescued from destruction. Jesus healed with His word ('Be clean,' 'Rise and walk'), demonstrating divine authority. The Word (Logos) made flesh (John 1:14) brings ultimate healing from sin's destruction. God's word creates, judges, saves, and heals.

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Historical & Cultural Context

God's word healed throughout Scripture: speaking created the cosmos (Genesis 1); God's word through prophets brought healing (2 Kings 5:10-14 - Elisha's word to Naaman). Jesus' healings by word demonstrated His deity—only God's word has inherent creative power. The centurion recognized this: 'Speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed' (Matthew 8:8). In the new covenant, the gospel word brings spiritual healing (1 Peter 2:24).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's word possess power to heal and deliver?
  2. In what ways does Jesus as the Word incarnate fulfill this verse?
  3. How does the gospel 'word' bring healing from sin's destruction?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
יִשְׁלַ֣ח1 of 5

He sent

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

דְּ֭בָרוֹ2 of 5

his word

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

וְיִרְפָּאֵ֑ם3 of 5

and healed

H7495

properly, to mend (by stitching), i.e., (figuratively) to cure

וִֽ֝ימַלֵּ֗ט4 of 5

them and delivered

H4422

properly, to be smooth, i.e., (by implication) to escape (as if by slipperiness); causatively, to release or rescue; specifically, to bring forth youn

מִשְּׁחִיתוֹתָֽם׃5 of 5

them from their destructions

H7825

a pit-fall (literally or figuratively)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 107:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 107:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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