King James Version

What Does Psalms 6:2 Mean?

Psalms 6:2 in the King James Version says “Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.”

Psalms 6:2 · KJV

Context

1

To the chief Musician on Neginoth upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David. O LORD, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. Sheminith: or, upon the eight

2

Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.

3

My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O LORD, how long?

4

Return, O LORD, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
David's physical weakness becomes the basis for his plea for mercy. The Hebrew 'amal' (weak) suggests withering or languishing, while 'bahal' (vexed) means terrified or dismayed. The mention of 'bones' represents his entire being - physical and emotional anguish. This teaches that believers can honestly bring their frailty before God as a reason for His compassion, not stoic denial. God's mercy is directed precisely toward the weak (2 Corinthians 12:9). The prayer for healing acknowledges God as the ultimate physician of body and soul.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Israelites understood physical illness as often connected to spiritual condition, though not in simplistic one-to-one correlation. David's illness could have been punishment for sin, enemy attack, or simply the frailty of creation under the curse. His appeal to God for healing shows faith that Yahweh controls both spiritual and physical realms.

Reflection Questions

  1. Do you bring your physical weaknesses to God or only your spiritual struggles?
  2. How does your weakness create opportunity for God's power to be displayed?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
חָנֵּ֥נִי1 of 10

“Have mercy”

H2603

properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)

יְהוָ֑ה2 of 10

“O LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כִּ֤י3 of 10
H3588

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

אֻמְלַ֫ל4 of 10

“for I am weak”

H536

sick

אָ֥נִי5 of 10
H589

i

רְפָאֵ֥נִי6 of 10

“heal”

H7495

properly, to mend (by stitching), i.e., (figuratively) to cure

יְהוָ֑ה7 of 10

“O LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כִּ֖י8 of 10
H3588

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

נִבְהֲל֣וּ9 of 10

“are vexed”

H926

to tremble inwardly (or palpitate), i.e., (figuratively) be (causative, make) (suddenly) alarmed or agitated; by implication to hasten anxiously

עֲצָמָֽי׃10 of 10

“me for my bones”

H6106

a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame

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 6:2 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 6:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hosea 6:1Psalms 30:2Psalms 31:10Jeremiah 17:14Deuteronomy 32:39Psalms 41:3-4

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