King James Version

What Does Psalms 22:24 Mean?

Psalms 22:24 in the King James Version says “For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when h... — study this verse from Psalms chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.

Psalms 22:24 · KJV


Context

22

I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.

23

Ye that fear the LORD, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel.

24

For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.

25

My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear him.

26

The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall live for ever.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God did not 'despise nor abhor the affliction of the afflicted'—a profound statement of divine compassion toward suffering. Though God ordained Christ's suffering, He did not delight in it for its own sake but for redemption's sake (Isa. 53:10). 'Neither hath he hid his face from him' contradicts the earlier cry of forsakenness (v.1), showing that apparent divine absence was temporary and purposeful. Reformed theology sees God's sovereign orchestration: He hid His face momentarily to accomplish salvation, then restored fellowship eternally.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This verse assures suffering saints that God sees, cares, and hears their cries. Throughout Israel's history—exile, oppression, persecution—this promise sustained faith that God had not permanently abandoned His people despite temporary discipline.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does knowing God does not 'despise your affliction' change how you bring suffering to Him?
  2. What does God's response to Christ's cry teach about His response to your prayers?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 14 words
כִּ֤י1 of 14
H3588

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

לֹֽא2 of 14
H3808

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

בָזָ֨ה3 of 14

For he hath not despised

H959

to disesteem

וְלֹ֪א4 of 14
H3808

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

שִׁקַּ֡ץ5 of 14

nor abhorred

H8262

to be filthy, i.e., (intensively) to loathe, pollute

עֱנ֬וּת6 of 14

the affliction

H6039

affliction

עָנִ֗י7 of 14

of the afflicted

H6041

depressed, in mind or circumstances

וְלֹא8 of 14
H3808

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

הִסְתִּ֣יר9 of 14

neither hath he hid

H5641

to hide (by covering), literally or figuratively

פָּנָ֣יו10 of 14

his face

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

מִמֶּ֑נּוּ11 of 14
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

וּֽבְשַׁוְּע֖וֹ12 of 14

from him but when he cried

H7768

properly, to be free; but used only causatively and reflexively, to halloo (for help, i.e., freedom from some trouble)

אֵלָ֣יו13 of 14
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

שָׁמֵֽעַ׃14 of 14

unto him he heard

H8085

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


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 22:24 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 22:24 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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