King James Version

What Does Psalms 130:2 Mean?

Psalms 130:2 in the King James Version says “Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 130 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.”

Psalms 130:2 · KJV

Context

1

A Song of degrees. Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD.

2

Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.

3

If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?

4

But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The cry continues with plea for divine attention: 'LORD, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.' The double reference to 'voice' emphasizes verbal prayer - words spoken in desperation. The imperative 'hear' (Hebrew 'shama') means to listen with intent to respond, not merely perceive sound. The phrase 'let thine ears be attentive' personalizes God anthropomorphically - giving Him ears suggests He actively listens. 'Attentive' (Hebrew 'qashab') means to prick up ears, pay close attention, be alert. The description 'voice of my supplications' specifies the prayer type - not praise or thanksgiving but petitions for mercy and help. Supplications (Hebrew 'tachanunim') come from root meaning to show favor or be gracious. The verse demonstrates bold prayer - asking God to listen carefully, not casually. Faith enables direct appeal for divine attention.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The plea for God to hear appears throughout psalms (5:1-2; 17:1; 39:12; 55:1-2; 61:1; 64:1; 102:1; 143:1), establishing pattern of bold prayer. Biblical theology affirms God hears His people's cries (Exodus 2:24; 3:7; 1 Kings 9:3), making such appeals appropriate based on covenant relationship.

Reflection Questions

  1. What gives believers confidence to ask God to 'hear' and 'be attentive' as if commanding Him?
  2. How does the double reference to 'voice' emphasize verbal, articulated prayer?
  3. What is the difference between God hearing and God being 'attentive' to prayer?
  4. How do 'supplications' differ from other forms of prayer (praise, thanksgiving, confession)?
  5. Why is it significant that the psalmist prays 'my voice' and 'my supplications' - how does prayer become personal?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
אֲדֹנָי֮1 of 8

“Lord”

H136

the lord (used as a proper name of god only)

שִׁמְעָ֪ה2 of 8

“hear”

H8085

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

לְ֝ק֗וֹל3 of 8

“my voice”

H6963

a voice or sound

תִּהְיֶ֣ינָה4 of 8
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

אָ֭זְנֶיךָ5 of 8

“let thine ears”

H241

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

קַשֻּׁב֑וֹת6 of 8

“be attentive”

H7183

hearkening

לְ֝ק֗וֹל7 of 8

“my voice”

H6963

a voice or sound

תַּחֲנוּנָֽי׃8 of 8

“of my supplications”

H8469

earnest prayer

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 130:2 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 130:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 6:40Psalms 61:1-2Isaiah 37:17Nehemiah 1:11Nehemiah 1:6Daniel 9:17-19

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