King James Version

What Does Psalms 107:40 Mean?

Psalms 107:40 in the King James Version says “He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way. wilderness: or, v...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 107 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way. wilderness: or, void place”

Psalms 107:40 · KJV

Context

38

He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly; and suffereth not their cattle to decrease.

39

Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.

40

He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way. wilderness: or, void place

41

Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock. from: or, after

42

The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.

Read Psalms 107 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse presents a powerful reversal of fortunes through divine intervention. The Hebrew verb "poureth" (shophek) suggests an abundant, overflowing action—God lavishly pours out "contempt" (buz) upon the mighty. This word carries connotations of scorn and derision, showing that those who once commanded respect now receive shame.

The targets are "princes" (nedibim), meaning nobles or those of high rank. The verb "causeth them to wander" (yat'em) depicts aimless wandering, stripping these leaders of their power and direction. The location is significant: "the wilderness, where there is no way" (tohu lo-derek)—literally a trackless waste, emphasizing complete disorientation and helplessness.

This verse illustrates the biblical principle that God humbles the proud and exalts the humble. The contrast between princes (symbols of power, direction, and security) and wandering in trackless wilderness demonstrates total reversal. God removes those who abuse their authority, reducing them to powerless wanderers.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Psalm 107 is a post-exilic thanksgiving psalm, likely composed after the Babylonian captivity when Israelites returned to their homeland. The psalm celebrates four types of deliverance, with this verse appearing in a section about God's intervention in human affairs.

The imagery would have resonated deeply with the returned exiles who had witnessed the overthrow of Babylonian princes and the humbling of great empires. They had seen powerful rulers like Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar brought low, wandering in madness or conquered in battle. The 'wilderness with no way' may allude to the actual desert wanderings of defeated armies or the figurative wilderness of mental confusion that struck proud rulers like Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4). This historical context made God's ability to humble the mighty a lived reality for the psalm's original audience.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why does God specifically pour contempt on princes rather than just removing them?
  2. What is the spiritual significance of causing the powerful to wander in wilderness?
  3. How does this verse relate to other biblical teachings about pride and humility?
  4. What comfort does this verse offer to those oppressed by unjust authorities?
  5. In what ways might this principle apply to modern political and social structures?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
שֹׁפֵ֣ךְ1 of 8

“He poureth”

H8210

to spill forth (blood, a libation, liquid metal; or even a solid, i.e., to mound up); also (figuratively) to expend (life, soul, complaint, money, etc

בּ֭וּז2 of 8

“contempt”

H937

disrespect

עַל3 of 8
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

נְדִיבִ֑ים4 of 8

“upon princes”

H5081

properly, voluntary, i.e., generous; hence, magnanimous; as noun, a grandee (sometimes a tyrant)

וַ֝יַּתְעֵ֗ם5 of 8

“and causeth them to wander”

H8582

to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both

בְּתֹ֣הוּ6 of 8

“in the wilderness”

H8414

a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain

לֹא7 of 8
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

דָֽרֶךְ׃8 of 8

“where there is no way”

H1870

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

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 107:40 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 107:40 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Job 12:24Job 12:21Daniel 4:33Isaiah 23:8-91 Samuel 6:4Daniel 5:18-30

Test Your Knowledge

Psalms 107 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Psalms 107 with CommentaryAll Psalms ChaptersComplete Psalms QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes