King James Version

What Does Psalms 40:2 Mean?

“He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. an: Heb. a pit of noise”

Context

To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. I waited: Heb. In waiting I waited

He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. an: Heb. a pit of noise

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **Horrible pit.**—The rendering of the margin, “pit of noise,” takes *shaôn *in its primary sense, as in Isaiah 17:12, Psalm 65:7, and the idea of a noise of rushing water suits this passage. Most commentators, however, take it here in the sense the cognate bears in Psalm 35:8, *“*destruction.” The LXX. and Vulg. have “misery.” **Miry clay.**—The word translated “clay” (comp. Psalm 69:2) is from a root meaning *to boil up, *or *ferment. *(One of its derivatives means “wine.”) Hence “froth,” or “slime.” LXX., *ilus; *Vulg., *fœx. *A verse of R. Browning’s perhaps expresses the poet’s image:— “It frothed by, A black eddy, bespate with flakes and fumes.” **Rock.**—The common image of security (Psalm 18:2; Psalm 27:5), the occurrence of which makes it probable that the “pit” and “clay” are also not realities, but emblems of confusion and danger.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 40:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.