Psalms 34:18

KJV

The LORD [is] nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

KJV (with Strong's)

The LORD {H3068} is nigh {H7138} unto them that are of a broken {H7665} heart {H3820}; and saveth {H3467} such as be of a contrite {H1793} spirit {H7307}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI is near those with broken hearts; he saves those whose spirit is crushed.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.

American Standard Version

Jehovah is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, And saveth such as are of a contrite spirit.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 34:18 profoundly reveals the compassionate nature of God, assuring believers of His intimate presence and saving power for those who are deeply humbled and distressed. This verse highlights that the Lord draws near not to the proud or self-sufficient, but specifically to individuals who acknowledge their profound need for Him, whether due to sorrow, repentance, or overwhelming hardship, promising them deliverance and restoration. It underscores that true spiritual strength often begins with a recognition of one's own weakness and dependence on divine grace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 34 is an acrostic psalm, with each verse (or pair of verses) beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, a literary device often used to aid memorization and convey completeness. It is a psalm of thanksgiving and wisdom, attributed to David after his escape from Abimelech (King Achish of Gath), as recounted in [1 Samuel 21:10-15](/1_samuel/21-10 "1 Samuel 21:10-15 - David feigns madness"). The psalm opens with a call to praise God for His deliverance ([Psalm 34:1-3](/psalms/34-1 "Psalm 34:1-3 - Praise for Deliverance")), recounts David's personal experience of being heard and delivered ([Psalm 34:4-6](/psalms/34-4 "Psalm 34:4-6 - David's Testimony")), and then shifts to general wisdom instruction, inviting others to "taste and see that the LORD is good" ([Psalm 34:8](/psalms/34-8 "Psalm 34:8 - Taste and See")). Verse 18 follows a section emphasizing God's attentiveness to the righteous who cry out ([Psalm 34:17](/psalms/34-17 "Psalm 34:17 - The Righteous Cry Out")), and it precedes a promise that "many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all" ([Psalm 34:19](/psalms/34-19 "Psalm 34:19 - Afflictions of the Righteous")). Thus, verse 18 acts as a specific clarification of *who* among the afflicted receives God's special attention and salvation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's experience in Gath was one of extreme vulnerability and humiliation. Feigning madness was a desperate act, a complete surrender of his dignity and royal aspirations, yet it was through this very act of self-abasement that God intervened and delivered him. This personal history deeply informs the psalm's message about God's responsiveness to the humble. In ancient Near Eastern thought, a "broken heart" or "contrite spirit" was not merely a psychological state but often carried moral and spiritual connotations, signifying a person brought low by suffering, remorse for sin, or a profound recognition of their own inadequacy before a holy God. Unlike the proud or self-sufficient, who might rely on their own strength or societal standing, the "brokenhearted" and "contrite" were those who had reached the end of their own resources, making them uniquely receptive to divine help. This cultural understanding underscores that God's nearness is not arbitrary but is a response to a particular posture of the human heart.
* **Key Themes:** Psalm 34:18 encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent in the Psalter and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully conveys God's **compassionate sovereignty**, demonstrating that His omnipotence is coupled with profound tenderness towards the vulnerable. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **divine proximity to the humble**, emphasizing that God's presence is most keenly felt by those who are not puffed up with pride but are genuinely broken and penitent. This echoes sentiments found in [Isaiah 57:15](/isaiah/57-15 "Isaiah 57:15 - God Dwells with the Contrite") where God declares He dwells "with him who has a contrite and humble spirit." Thirdly, the verse speaks to the theme of **salvation through humility**, asserting that God's deliverance is extended to those who acknowledge their need, rather than those who assert their independence. This concept is beautifully articulated in [Psalm 51:17](/psalms/51-17 "Psalm 51:17 - A Broken and Contrite Heart"), which states, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise." Finally, it reinforces the **contrast between the righteous and the wicked**, a recurring motif in Psalm 34, showing that while the wicked face judgment ([Psalm 34:21](/psalms/34-21 "Psalm 34:21 - Evil Slays the Wicked")), God preserves those who humble themselves before Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **nigh (Hebrew, _qarov'_):** This word signifies not merely spatial proximity but also relational closeness, intimacy, and readiness to act. It implies accessibility and a deep, empathetic presence. For God to be "nigh" to someone means He is actively attentive, available, and prepared to intervene on their behalf, demonstrating His personal involvement in their suffering and circumstances.
* **broken heart (Hebrew, _shabar lev'_):** "Shabar" means to break, shatter, or crush. "Lev" refers to the heart, encompassing the totality of one's inner being—emotions, will, intellect, and conscience. A "broken heart" therefore denotes a state of profound emotional distress, deep sorrow, spiritual remorse, or a sense of utter defeat and helplessness. It describes a spirit that is not proud or resistant but has been humbled and brought low, often by suffering, sin, or the weight of life's burdens.
* **contrite spirit (Hebrew, _dakka ruach'_):** "Dakka" means to be crushed, bruised, or pulverized, suggesting something utterly humbled or abased. "Ruach" refers to the spirit, breath, or inner disposition. A "contrite spirit" thus describes a spirit that is not merely saddened but utterly humbled, repentant, and submissive. It implies a complete surrender of self-will and pride, recognizing one's own weakness and absolute dependence on God. This state of humility is seen as receptive to God's grace and intervention.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The LORD [is] nigh unto them that are of a broken heart;":** This clause establishes God's profound character and preferential attention. The Lord, the sovereign covenant God (Yahweh), is not distant or indifferent to human suffering. Instead, He actively draws near, demonstrating His intimate presence and empathy for those experiencing deep emotional pain, sorrow, or spiritual anguish. This "nighness" is a promise of comfort, understanding, and a readiness to engage with their plight. It signifies that God's compassion is particularly directed towards those who are not self-sufficient but are utterly dependent and vulnerable.
* **"and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.":** This second clause reveals the active outcome of God's nearness. For those whose spirit is "contrite"—crushed, humbled, and penitent—God provides salvation. The Hebrew word for "saveth" (_yoshia'_) encompasses deliverance, rescue, preservation, and bringing to safety or wholeness. This salvation can be spiritual (from sin and its consequences), emotional (healing from grief or trauma), or physical (deliverance from danger). It underscores that God's intervention is not just comforting but transformative, actively working to restore and redeem those who approach Him in humility and repentance.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 34:18 masterfully employs **Parallelism**, specifically **synonymous parallelism**, where the second line reiterates and amplifies the meaning of the first. "Broken heart" in the first clause is paralleled by "contrite spirit" in the second, both describing a state of profound humility and inner brokenness. Similarly, "The LORD is nigh" is paralleled by "and saveth," indicating that God's closeness is directly linked to His active intervention and deliverance. This reinforces the central message: God's compassionate presence is inextricably tied to His saving action for the humble. Furthermore, the phrases "broken heart" and "contrite spirit" are powerful **Metaphors**. They are not literal descriptions of physical organs but vivid images representing deep emotional and spiritual states of humility, sorrow, and penitence. These metaphors effectively convey the profound internal condition that elicits God's special attention and saving grace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 34:18 stands as a cornerstone verse, articulating a fundamental truth about God's character: His profound compassion and active intervention are uniquely directed towards those who are humble and broken in spirit. This principle is not merely a comforting thought but a theological declaration that God's power is perfected in weakness, and His grace flows most freely to those who recognize their utter dependence on Him. It challenges human pride and self-sufficiency, redirecting our gaze to a God who values a repentant and humble heart above all outward displays of piety or strength. This verse assures us that even in our deepest valleys of despair, sorrow, or remorse, God is not distant but intimately present, ready to heal, restore, and deliver.

* [Psalm 51:17](/psalms/51-17 "The Sacrifice of a Broken Spirit")
* [Isaiah 57:15](/isaiah/57-15 "God's Dwelling with the Contrite")
* [Matthew 5:3](/matthew/5-3 "Blessed are the Poor in Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 34:18 offers immense solace and profound spiritual direction for contemporary life. In a world that often values strength, self-reliance, and outward success, this verse reminds us that true spiritual strength often paradoxically begins with acknowledging our weakness and brokenness. If you find yourself in a season of deep grief, overwhelming anxiety, profound regret over sin, or simply feel utterly depleted and without answers, this verse is a direct assurance that God is not far off. He is uniquely close to those who are "brokenhearted" and "contrite in spirit," not because He desires our suffering, but because such a state opens the heart to His healing presence and saving power. It encourages us to abandon pretense and pride, and instead, to approach God with raw honesty about our struggles, knowing that it is precisely in our humility that His grace abounds. This verse invites us to embrace our vulnerability as an invitation for divine intimacy and intervention, fostering a hope that transcends circumstances and points to God as our ultimate deliverer and restorer.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it truly mean for your heart to be "broken" or your spirit "contrite" in a way that draws God near?**
* **How might pride or self-sufficiency prevent you from experiencing God's "nighness" and saving power in your current circumstances?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to surrender your own strength and embrace a posture of humility to receive God's deliverance?**
* **How does the promise of God being "nigh" to the brokenhearted change your perspective on suffering or personal failure?**

### FAQ
**Does "broken heart" imply only emotional pain, or spiritual and moral brokenness as well?**

Answer: While a "broken heart" certainly encompasses deep emotional pain and sorrow, in the biblical context, it extends far beyond mere sentiment. It often refers to a state of spiritual and moral brokenness, signifying profound remorse over sin, a recognition of one's utter inadequacy before God, or a spirit humbled by the weight of personal failure or the consequences of sin. It describes a heart that is no longer proud or resistant but is soft, teachable, and utterly dependent on God's grace. This comprehensive understanding aligns with other passages like [Psalm 51:17](/psalms/51-17 "Psalm 51:17 - A Broken and Contrite Heart"), where a broken and contrite heart is presented as the acceptable sacrifice to God, indicating a spiritual posture of repentance and humility.

**How does God's "nighness" manifest for those of a broken heart and contrite spirit?**

Answer: God's "nighness" is not merely a passive presence but an active, empathetic engagement. It manifests in various ways: through His comforting presence in times of sorrow, His guidance and wisdom when one feels lost, His forgiveness and restoration for the repentant, and His miraculous intervention in desperate situations. It means He is attentive to their cries ([Psalm 34:17](/psalms/34-17 "Psalm 34:17 - The Righteous Cry Out")), provides strength when they are weak ([2 Corinthians 12:9](/2_corinthians/12-9 "2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's Strength in Weakness")), and ultimately delivers them from their troubles ([Psalm 34:19](/psalms/34-19 "Psalm 34:19 - Deliverance from Afflictions")). This divine proximity assures the brokenhearted that they are not alone and that God is actively working for their good and salvation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 34:18 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of God's "nighness" to the brokenhearted, for He "dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), taking on human flesh to intimately experience our sorrows and infirmities ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest")). Jesus Himself perfectly exemplified the "contrite spirit" through His unparalleled humility, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humiliation")). His earthly ministry was consistently directed towards the "poor in spirit," the "mourners," and those who were "weary and heavy-laden" ([Matthew 5:3-4](/matthew/5-3 "Matthew 5:3-4 - The Beatitudes") and [Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")), demonstrating God's preferential care for the broken. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus became the ultimate means by which God "saveth" those of a contrite spirit, offering complete forgiveness for sin and eternal life to all who humble themselves and believe in Him ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "God's Love Demonstrated") and [John 3:16](/john/3-16 "God So Loved the World")). Thus, in Christ, the promise of God's nearness and salvation for the brokenhearted is not just a comforting thought, but a redemptive reality fully accomplished and freely offered.

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 147:3

He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

Psalms 145:18

The LORD [is] nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.

Isaiah 57:15

For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.

Isaiah 61:1

¶ The Spirit of the Lord GOD [is] upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;

Psalms 51:17

The sacrifices of God [are] a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.

Ezekiel 36:26

A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

Isaiah 66:2

For all those [things] hath mine hand made, and all those [things] have been, saith the LORD: but to this [man] will I look, [even] to [him that is] poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.