King James Version

What Does Psalms 130:4 Mean?

Psalms 130:4 in the King James Version says “But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 130 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Psalms 130:4 · KJV


Context

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.

5

I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.

6

My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning. I say: or, which watch unto


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The crucial contrast emerges: 'But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.' The word 'but' introduces reversal - despite human guilt (v. 3), divine forgiveness exists. The phrase 'there is forgiveness with thee' affirms God's character as forgiving. Forgiveness (Hebrew 'selichah') means pardon, the sending away of sin. This isn't earned but is intrinsic to God's nature. The phrase 'with thee' emphasizes that forgiveness is found nowhere else - not in human effort, religious ritual, or self-justification, but with God alone. The purpose clause 'that thou mayest be feared' explains why God forgives - to produce reverent awe, worship, and obedient love. Paradoxically, forgiveness generates fear (reverence), not presumption. Those who experience undeserved mercy love and fear the Forgiver. This verse is the theological center of the psalm - grace produces godliness.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Old Testament sacrificial system pointed to forgiveness through atonement (Leviticus 16; 17:11). However, the psalm emphasizes that forgiveness originates in God's character, not merely ritual. Prophets declared God's willingness to forgive (Isaiah 55:7; Jeremiah 31:34; Micah 7:18-19). For Christians, this forgiveness finds ultimate expression in Christ's atoning work.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does forgiveness being 'with' God mean it's found nowhere else?
  2. Why does forgiveness produce fear (reverence) rather than presumption or casualness?
  3. What is the relationship between experiencing grace and developing godly character?
  4. How does this verse answer the rhetorical question of verse 3?
  5. In what ways does God's forgiveness serve the purpose of producing worshipful reverence?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
כִּֽי1 of 5
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

עִמְּךָ֥2 of 5
H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

הַסְּלִיחָ֑ה3 of 5

But there is forgiveness

H5547

pardon

לְ֝מַ֗עַן4 of 5
H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

תִּוָּרֵֽא׃5 of 5

with thee that thou mayest be feared

H3372

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten


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 130:4 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 130:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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