Psalms 31:2

KJV

Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me.

KJV (with Strong's)

Bow down {H5186} thine ear {H241} to me; deliver {H5337} me speedily {H4120}: be thou my strong {H4581} rock {H6697}, for an house {H1004} of defence {H4686} to save {H3467} me.

Complete Jewish Bible

Turn your ear toward me, come quickly to my rescue, be for me a rock of strength, a fortress to keep me safe.

Berean Standard Bible

Incline Your ear to me; come quickly to my rescue. Be my rock of refuge, the stronghold of my deliverance.

American Standard Version

Bow down thine ear unto me; deliver me speedily: Be thou to me a strong rock, A house of defence to save me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 31:2 presents a fervent and urgent prayer from David, encapsulating a profound reliance on God amidst intense distress. It serves as a timeless expression of humanity's cry for divine intervention, portraying God as the ultimate, unshakeable refuge and an impenetrable fortress. The verse powerfully articulates David's deep trust in God's attentive ear, His swift power to deliver, and His unwavering capacity to provide complete safety and salvation in the face of overwhelming circumstances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 31 is a deeply personal lament of David, yet it masterfully navigates between expressions of profound distress and unwavering trust in God. Verse 2, "Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me," immediately establishes the urgent and intimate tone for the psalm's opening section. It follows directly from David's declaration of refuge in God in [Psalm 31:1](/psalms/31-1 "Psalm 31:1 - In You, O Lord, I Take Refuge"), where he seeks deliverance from shame. The subsequent pleas for swift intervention and the robust imagery of God as a rock and fortress are foundational to the psalm's emotional and theological trajectory, moving from desperation (vividly depicted in [Psalm 31:9-13](/psalms/31-9 "Psalm 31:9-13 - David's Distress and Enemies")) to a triumphant resurgence of confidence and praise (culminating in [Psalm 31:19-24](/psalms/31-19 "Psalm 31:19-24 - God's Goodness and Deliverance")). Thus, this verse is a pivotal invocation, setting the stage for David's earnest appeal for immediate and powerful divine assistance.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's life was frequently characterized by periods of intense persecution, betrayal, and personal affliction. While the specific historical backdrop for Psalm 31 remains unstated, its themes resonate deeply with known episodes such as his flight from Saul (e.g., [1 Samuel 23:25](/1_samuel/23-25 "1 Samuel 23:25 - Saul Pursues David in the Wilderness")), the painful rebellion of his son Absalom (e.g., [2 Samuel 15:13-14](/2_samuel/15-13 "2 Samuel 15:13-14 - Absalom's Conspiracy")), or even severe personal illness. In ancient Israel, the concepts of "rock" (צוּר, _tsur_) and "fortress" (מְצוּדָה, _metsudah_) were not abstract theological metaphors but tangible realities. Natural rock formations provided literal, unassailable refuge from enemies, and fortified cities or strongholds were indispensable for defense against invaders. This imagery, therefore, evokes a profound understanding of physical vulnerability and the desperate human need for a secure, unassailable sanctuary. Culturally, the idea of God "bowing down His ear" reflects the posture of a compassionate king, judge, or parent leaning in to hear the desperate plea of a subject or child, signifying personal, attentive, and immediate engagement, underscoring God's relational nature.

* **Key Themes:** Psalms 31:2 powerfully articulates several core themes prevalent throughout the Psalter and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **urgency of prayer** in times of acute crisis, demonstrating that believers are encouraged to approach God with immediate and specific needs, holding nothing back. Secondly, it profoundly underscores God's **attentiveness and compassion**, portraying Him as one who actively "bows down His ear" to the cries of His people, rather than remaining distant or indifferent. This emphasizes His personal engagement and care. Thirdly, the verse vividly emphasizes God's **character as a deliverer and protector**, employing the robust imagery of a "strong rock" and a "house of defence." This theme of God as an unshakeable refuge is central to the Psalter, providing unwavering assurance that He is an ever-present help in trouble, as declared in [Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength"). Finally, it speaks to the **absolute trust** that the righteous place in God alone for their salvation and security, recognizing His unparalleled power to save, a trust far superior to reliance on human strength or military might, as contrasted in [Psalm 20:7](/psalms/20-7 "Psalm 20:7 - Some Trust in Chariots").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bow down (Hebrew, _nâṭâh_):** From H5186, this primitive root means "to stretch or spread out" or "to bend away." When applied to God's ear, as in "bow down thine ear," it is a powerful **anthropomorphism**. It conveys far more than simply hearing; it implies a deliberate, compassionate act of inclining, leaning in, and giving focused, personal attention to the petitioner's plea. It suggests an intimate engagement, a willingness to listen intently and respond with care, rather than a passive or distant acknowledgment. This word highlights God's active and empathetic posture towards His suffering children.
* **Rock (Hebrew, _tsûwr_):** From H6697, this term properly refers to a "cliff" or "sharp rock," and generally to a "rock or boulder." Figuratively, it denotes a "refuge." In biblical imagery, _tsûwr_ is a profound metaphor for God's unchangeable nature, His absolute reliability, and His impregnable strength. When combined with "strong" (H4581, _mâʻôwz_, meaning "a fortified place" or "defence"), "strong rock" signifies a foundation that cannot be shaken, a place of ultimate stability and security that offers unwavering protection against all threats. It speaks to God's steadfastness and His enduring power to uphold His people.
* **Defence (Hebrew, _mâtsûwd_):** From H4686, this word refers to "a net" or "capture," but also "a fastness," "castle," "defense," or "fortress." In the phrase "house of defence" (בֵּית מְצוּדָה, _bayith mâtsûwd_), the term _mâtsûwd_ denotes a fortified place, an inaccessible refuge, or a citadel. Combined with "house" (H1004, _bayith_, meaning "a house" or "palace"), it emphasizes not just a temporary shelter but a permanent, secure dwelling place. It portrays God as a comprehensive, enduring sanctuary where one can find complete and lasting safety, a place of impregnable protection from all adversaries and dangers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Bow down thine ear to me":** This is a deeply personal and urgent plea that goes beyond a simple request for God to hear. David is asking God to incline His ear, to lean in, and to listen attentively and with focused compassion, much as one would lean in to hear a whispered, desperate request. It highlights the intimate nature of David's relationship with God and his expectation of a personal, empathetic, and engaged divine response.
* **"deliver me speedily":** This clause underscores the immediate and critical nature of David's distress. He is in a situation where any delay could be disastrous, and he requires swift, decisive divine intervention. It reflects a crisis of such magnitude that only God's rapid action can bring relief and salvation, demonstrating a desperate reliance on God's timing and His omnipotent power to act decisively.
* **"be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me":** This is the core declaration of David's trust and the foundation of his hope. The dual metaphors of "strong rock" and "house of defence" are complementary and amplify God's comprehensive protective nature. "Strong rock" emphasizes God's unshakeable character, His steadfastness, and His power to provide a firm, unyielding foundation. "House of defence" expands on this, portraying God as an impenetrable, permanent sanctuary—a place of absolute security and refuge. The ultimate purpose of these divine attributes is "to save me," encompassing physical deliverance, spiritual preservation, and ultimate salvation from all harm, enemies, and despair.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 31:2 is profoundly enriched by its use of **Imagery** and **Metaphor**, painting vivid pictures of God's character and His intimate relationship with His struggling servant. The opening phrase, "Bow down thine ear to me," employs **Anthropomorphism**, attributing a human physical action (leaning in to listen) to God. This device makes God's attentiveness relatable and emphasizes His personal, compassionate engagement with the petitioner, fostering a sense of divine intimacy. The most prominent devices are the **Metaphors** of God as "my strong rock" and "an house of defence." These are not merely comparisons but profound declarations of God's very nature as an unyielding, stable foundation and an impenetrable, secure dwelling place. The combination of these powerful images creates a comprehensive sense of unwavering protection and absolute security, transforming abstract theological concepts into tangible, comforting realities for the distressed soul.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates God's immanence—His active presence and engagement in the lives of His people—even as it affirms His transcendence as the all-powerful "strong rock." It underscores the biblical truth that God is not a distant, indifferent deity but one who listens, cares, and intervenes personally and powerfully in human affairs. David's urgent plea for "speedy" deliverance highlights the universal human experience of distress and the legitimate desire for quick relief, yet it is rooted in a deep theological understanding of God's character as a faithful covenant keeper who is both able and willing to save. The imagery of God as a "strong rock" and "house of defence" connects to the broader biblical theme of God as the ultimate refuge, fortress, and deliverer for His people, a source of unwavering strength and security in a chaotic and dangerous world.

* [Psalm 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is My Rock and My Fortress")
* [Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")
* [Psalm 70:5](/psalms/70-5 "Psalm 70:5 - Hasten to Me, O God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 31:2 offers profound encouragement and a timeless model for prayer in moments of personal crisis and overwhelming challenge. It reminds us that when we face distress, danger, or despair, we are not left to our own devices but are invited to approach God with the same heartfelt urgency and absolute trust that David displayed. This verse assures us that God is not only capable of delivering us from our troubles but is also intimately attentive to our cries, ready to "bow down His ear" and respond with compassion and power. It challenges us to shift our focus from the magnitude of our problems to the immensity of God's power and His unwavering character as our "strong rock" and "house of defence." In Him, we find an unshakeable foundation and an impenetrable sanctuary, regardless of the storms raging around us. Placing our complete reliance on His strength and protective presence allows us to experience true security and salvation, knowing that our ultimate refuge is found in Him alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life are you currently experiencing distress or vulnerability, and how does the imagery of God as your "strong rock" and "house of defence" speak directly to those needs?**
* **How does the understanding that God "bows down His ear" to you personally impact your willingness to bring your most urgent, intimate, and even unarticulated prayers before Him?**
* **What does it truly mean to "lean on" God as your refuge in practical terms, and what tangible steps can you take this week to deepen your trust in His speedy and comprehensive deliverance?**

### FAQ
**Why does David ask God to "bow down His ear" rather than just "hear me"?**

Answer: The phrase "bow down thine ear" (נָטָה אָזְנְךָ, _natah ozn'kha_) is a powerful anthropomorphism that conveys a deeper, more intimate level of divine attention than a simple request to "hear." It pictures God leaning in, inclining His ear, as a compassionate parent or a caring friend would do to hear a desperate, whispered plea. This imagery emphasizes God's personal engagement, His empathetic concern, and His readiness to give focused, undivided attention to the petitioner's specific need. It's a plea for God to draw near and respond with active care, not just passive awareness, highlighting the deeply personal nature of David's relationship with the Almighty.

**What is the significance of the request for "speedy" deliverance?**

Answer: The request for "speedy" deliverance underscores the urgency and severity of David's situation. It implies that he is in immediate danger or facing overwhelming distress where a delay in divine intervention could lead to disastrous consequences. This is not an impatient demand but a desperate cry from a heart besieged by trouble, recognizing that only God's swift and timely action can bring relief and salvation. It reflects a profound reliance on God's sovereign timing and His power to act decisively in moments of crisis, as seen in other urgent prayers like [Psalm 70:5](/psalms/70-5 "Psalm 70:5 - Make Haste to Help Me, O Lord").

**How can God be both a "strong rock" and a "house of defence"? Are these not redundant images?**

Answer: Far from being redundant, the metaphors of "strong rock" and "house of defence" are complementary and amplify the comprehensive nature of God's protection. The "strong rock" (צוּר, _tsur_) emphasizes God's unchangeable character, His absolute stability, and His unyielding power as an immovable foundation. It speaks to His inherent strength and steadfastness. The "house of defence" (בֵּית מְצוּדָה, _beit metsudah_), or "house of fortress," adds the dimension of a secure, permanent dwelling place. It implies not just a temporary shelter but an enduring sanctuary, an impenetrable stronghold where one can reside in complete safety. Together, they paint a comprehensive picture of God as both the unshakeable foundation upon which one stands and the secure, protective environment in which one lives, providing both stability and comprehensive refuge from all threats, as also seen in [Psalm 91:2](/psalms/91-2 "Psalm 91:2 - My Refuge and My Fortress").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 31:2 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the divine attributes longed for by the psalmist. He is the very "strong rock" upon whom believers can build their lives, a foundation that will never fail, just as He Himself taught in the parable of the wise and foolish builders, where those who hear and obey His words build on an unshakeable rock ([Matthew 7:24-25](/matthew/7-24 "Matthew 7:24-25 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")). Jesus is also our ultimate "house of defence," the secure dwelling place where we find eternal salvation and refuge from sin, death, and the power of the enemy. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus consistently demonstrated His willingness to "bow down His ear" to the cries of the afflicted, responding with compassion and "speedy" deliverance, whether healing the sick ([Mark 1:40-42](/mark/1-40 "Mark 1:40-42 - Jesus Heals a Leper")), casting out demons, or raising the dead. His own cry of lament on the cross, echoing psalms of profound distress ([Psalm 22:1](/psalms/22-1 "Psalm 22:1 - My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?")), shows His perfect solidarity with human suffering, yet His resurrection is the ultimate "speedy deliverance" from death itself. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus became the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), providing the ultimate salvation David longed for. In Christ, we have not only a listening ear and swift help but also an eternal, unshakeable sanctuary, allowing us to approach [the throne of grace with confidence](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace") for mercy and help in time of need.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 71:2

Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.

Psalms 71:3

Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou [art] my rock and my fortress.

Psalms 86:1

¶ A Prayer of David. Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I [am] poor and needy.

Psalms 102:2

Hide not thy face from me in the day [when] I am in trouble; incline thine ear unto me: in the day [when] I call answer me speedily.

Deuteronomy 32:31

For their rock [is] not as our Rock, even our enemies themselves [being] judges.

Psalms 130:2

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

1 John 4:15

Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.