Psalms 42:6

KJV

¶ O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar.

KJV (with Strong's)

O my God {H430}, my soul {H5315} is cast down {H7817}{H8709)} within me: therefore will I remember {H2142}{H8799)} thee from the land {H776} of Jordan {H3383}, and of the Hermonites {H2769}, from the hill {H2022} Mizar {H4706}.

Complete Jewish Bible

My God, when I feel so downcast, I remind myself of you from the land of Yarden, from the peaks of Hermon, from the hill Mizar.

Berean Standard Bible

O my God, my soul despairs within me. Therefore I remember You from the land of Jordan and the peaks of Hermon— even from Mount Mizar.

American Standard Version

O my God, my soul is cast down within me: Therefore do I remember thee from the land of the Jordan, And the Hermons, from the hill Mizar.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 42:6 powerfully articulates the profound human experience of spiritual and emotional despondency, where the psalmist's soul feels utterly "cast down." Despite this deep inner turmoil and geographical separation from the spiritual center of Israel, the psalmist makes a deliberate and courageous choice to actively remember God. This verse encapsulates a journey from despair to a conscious act of faith, affirming God's omnipresence and the enduring power of recalling His character and faithfulness even in the most challenging and remote circumstances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 42 is the opening psalm of Book Two of the Psalter (Psalms 42-72), often attributed to the Sons of Korah, a guild of temple musicians and gatekeepers. It is a lament psalm, characterized by deep personal anguish and an intense longing for God's presence, particularly in the sanctuary in Jerusalem. The recurring refrain, "Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God," found in [Psalms 42:5](/psalms/42-5 "Psalms 42:5 - Hope in God") and [Psalms 42:11](/psalms/42-11 "Psalms 42:11 - Hope in God"), and echoed in [Psalms 43:5](/psalms/43-5 "Psalms 43:5 - Hope in God"), strongly links Psalms 42 and 43, suggesting they may have originally been a single composition. The psalmist's lament begins with a thirst for God like a deer for water ([Psalms 42:1-2](/psalms/42-1 "Psalms 42:1-2 - Thirsting for God")), setting the stage for the deep emotional and spiritual distress expressed in verse 6.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The specific mention of "the land of Jordan," "the Hermonites," and "the hill Mizar" strongly suggests the psalmist is located in the northern regions of Israel, far from Jerusalem and the temple. This geographical distance is significant, as the temple was considered the primary dwelling place of God's manifest presence and the center of Israelite worship and communal life. For a Son of Korah, whose identity was intrinsically tied to temple service, separation from Jerusalem would have been profoundly distressing, amplifying feelings of spiritual exile and abandonment. The "Hermonites" refers to the peaks of Mount Hermon, a majestic and prominent mountain range in the far north, while "Mizar" (meaning "smallness" or "insignificance") is likely a lesser peak in the same vicinity. This geographical contrast might subtly reflect the psalmist's internal state—from the grandeur of God's creation to his own feeling of insignificance in his distress.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalms 42 and the broader Psalter. The most prominent is **Profound Despair and Lament**, as indicated by the soul being "cast down," a raw expression of spiritual and emotional distress. This lament, however, is not without hope, leading to the theme of **Active Remembrance of God**. Despite the overwhelming sorrow, the psalmist makes a conscious, volitional choice to "remember thee," highlighting the power of recalling God's character and past faithfulness as an anchor in the storm. This act of remembrance, performed from a distant land, underscores the theme of **God's Transcendent and Omnipresent Presence**, demonstrating that God is not confined to the temple or specific locations but is accessible to those who seek Him, regardless of their physical circumstances. Ultimately, the verse points towards the theme of **Hope in God**, even amidst the deepest valleys, a hope that anticipates future praise and restoration, as articulated throughout [Psalms 42](/psalms/42 "Psalms 42 - As a Deer Pants for Water").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **cast down (Hebrew, _shachach'_):** This verb, שָׁחַח, means "to sink," "to bow down," "to be humbled," or "to prostrate oneself." In the context of the soul, it vividly portrays a state of profound internal collapse, emotional depression, or spiritual despondency. It's not merely sadness but a feeling of being weighed down, brought low, or utterly overwhelmed, as if the very essence of one's being has slumped into despair.
* **remember (Hebrew, _zakar'_):** The Hebrew verb זָכַר signifies more than a passive recollection. It implies an active, intentional calling to mind, often involving meditation, reflection, and a renewed commitment or trust based on that memory. In a covenantal context, "remembering" God often means recalling His past acts of faithfulness, His promises, and His character, which then prompts a response of faith and trust. It is a deliberate spiritual exercise to combat the internal struggle of being "cast down."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"O my God, my soul is cast down within me:"** The psalmist begins with a direct, intimate address to God ("O my God"), immediately establishing a personal relationship even in distress. The declaration "my soul is cast down within me" is a raw, honest confession of deep internal anguish. It emphasizes that the struggle is not merely external but an internal spiritual and emotional battle, a profound sense of despondency that has settled deep within his being.
* **"therefore will I remember thee"** This phrase marks a pivotal turning point. The "therefore" indicates a volitional response to the preceding despair. Despite the overwhelming feelings, the psalmist makes a conscious, deliberate choice to shift his focus from his circumstances and internal turmoil to God. This act of remembering is an act of faith, a spiritual discipline that anchors the soul in God's unchanging nature and past faithfulness.
* **"from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar."** These geographical markers specify the psalmist's remote location. The "land of Jordan" refers to the region east of the Jordan River, while "the Hermonites" points to the peaks of Mount Hermon in the far north. "Hill Mizar" is a smaller, perhaps insignificant, hill in that vicinity. The mention of these distant places emphasizes the psalmist's physical separation from Jerusalem and the temple, the perceived locus of God's presence. Yet, even from this remote and perhaps desolate location, the psalmist affirms his ability and intention to remember God, highlighting God's omnipresence and accessibility regardless of physical proximity to a sacred site.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 42:6 employs several powerful literary devices to convey the psalmist's emotional and spiritual state. **Personification** is evident in the phrase "my soul is cast down within me," where the soul, an abstract concept, is depicted as an entity capable of being physically lowered or depressed, vividly illustrating the depth of the psalmist's despair. The direct address "O my God" is an example of **apostrophe**, a rhetorical device where the speaker addresses an absent person, an abstract idea, or a thing. This direct address underscores the psalmist's personal relationship with God and his desperate plea. Furthermore, the use of **geographical symbolism** is prominent. The distant locations—"the land of Jordan," "the Hermonites," and "the hill Mizar"—are not merely literal places but symbolize the psalmist's spiritual distance or perceived exile from God's presence in the temple. This physical separation amplifies his spiritual longing. Finally, the verse features a powerful **contrast** between the profound despair ("my soul is cast down") and the active, deliberate choice to "remember thee," showcasing the resilience of faith in the face of overwhelming emotion. The contrast between the towering "Hermonites" and the "hill Mizar" (the little mountain) might also subtly reflect the psalmist's fluctuating emotional landscape, from moments of grandeur to feelings of insignificance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 42:6 offers profound theological insights into the nature of human suffering, divine omnipresence, and the discipline of faith. It affirms that even the most devout individuals can experience deep spiritual and emotional distress, acknowledging the reality of lament within the life of faith. Crucially, it demonstrates that God's presence is not confined to physical structures or geographical locations; He is accessible and responsive to His people wherever they are, even in the most remote or desolate circumstances. The psalmist's deliberate act of remembering God in the midst of his despair underscores the biblical truth that faith is not merely a feeling but a volitional choice to fix one's mind on God's unchanging character, promises, and past faithfulness, thereby finding an anchor of hope in the storm. This active remembrance serves as a counter-strategy to overwhelming sorrow, shifting focus from the self and circumstances to the sovereign and compassionate God.

* [Psalms 43:5](/psalms/43-5 "Psalms 43:5 - Hope in God")
* [Lamentations 3:21-23](/lamentations/3-21 "Lamentations 3:21-23 - Remembering God's Steadfast Love")
* [Isaiah 41:10](/isaiah/41-10 "Isaiah 41:10 - God's Promise to Strengthen")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 42:6 provides a timeless and deeply relatable portrait of the human condition, offering profound encouragement and practical guidance for those navigating seasons of spiritual dryness, emotional despondency, or perceived abandonment. It normalizes the experience of feeling "cast down," assuring us that such feelings are not a sign of a lack of faith but a common part of the human journey. The psalmist's response, however, is key: despite the overwhelming sorrow, he actively chooses to "remember God." This teaches us the vital spiritual discipline of intentional remembrance. When our feelings betray us, and circumstances threaten to overwhelm, we are called to deliberately recall God's unchanging character, His faithfulness throughout history, His specific promises in His Word, and His past acts of deliverance in our own lives. This act of remembering serves as a powerful anchor, shifting our focus from our internal turmoil to the steadfast reality of God's presence and power. Furthermore, the geographical context reminds us that God's presence is not limited by location or circumstance; He is with us wherever we are, even in our most isolated or desperate moments. This verse invites us to engage in active faith, to speak truth to our souls, and to find our hope not in fleeting feelings but in the enduring nature of our God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for your soul to be "cast down," and how have you experienced this feeling in your own life?**
* **What specific truths about God's character, promises, or past actions can you actively "remember" when you feel overwhelmed or despairing?**
* **How does the psalmist's ability to remember God from a distant land challenge or affirm your understanding of God's omnipresence?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a habit of intentional remembrance of God in times of distress?**

### FAQ
**What does "cast down within me" mean in the context of this psalm?**

Answer: "Cast down within me" (Hebrew: _shachach_) refers to a deep internal state of despondency, spiritual depression, or profound emotional distress. It signifies a soul that feels weighed down, brought low, or utterly overwhelmed by sorrow and despair. It's an inner turmoil, a feeling of being dejected or disheartened from the core of one's being, rather than merely an external struggle. The psalmist is expressing a profound sense of inner collapse.

**Why are specific geographical locations like "the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar" mentioned?**

Answer: These geographical markers serve several purposes. Firstly, they pinpoint the psalmist's remote location, likely in the northern regions of Israel, far from Jerusalem and the temple. This physical distance amplifies his spiritual anguish and longing for God's presence, as the temple was considered the primary dwelling place of God's manifest presence. Secondly, by stating that he will remember God even from these distant places, the psalmist underscores God's omnipresence and accessibility. It highlights that God is not confined to a specific sacred space but can be sought and found anywhere, even in the most isolated or desolate circumstances. This universal access to God is a source of comfort and hope for the psalmist.

**How can actively "remembering God" help when one is feeling despair or their soul is "cast down"?**

Answer: The act of "remembering" (Hebrew: _zakar_) in this context is not passive recollection but an active, intentional calling to mind. When one's soul is cast down, the focus tends to be inward, on one's pain, circumstances, or perceived abandonment. By deliberately choosing to remember God, the psalmist shifts his focus outward and upward to God's unchanging character, His past acts of faithfulness, His covenant promises, and His sovereign power. This intentional act of faith provides an anchor in the storm, reminding the soul of a reality greater than its current distress. It reorients the heart towards hope, providing a foundation for trust even when feelings betray, as seen in the psalmist's recurring resolve to "Hope in God" found in [Psalms 42:5](/psalms/42-5 "Psalms 42:5 - Hope in God") and [Psalms 42:11](/psalms/42-11 "Psalms 42:11 - Hope in God").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 42:6, with its raw expression of a "cast down" soul and the deliberate choice to remember God from a place of perceived distance, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. The psalmist's longing for God's presence, particularly from a place of separation, foreshadows humanity's profound spiritual alienation from God due to sin. Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), perfectly embodies the human experience of suffering and abandonment, most profoundly on the cross when He cried out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" ([Matthew 27:46](/matthew/27-46 "Matthew 27:46 - Jesus' Cry of Dereliction")). Yet, unlike the psalmist, Jesus' "cast down" experience was for our sake, bearing the full weight of humanity's sin and separation. Through His atoning sacrifice, He bridged the chasm between God and humanity, becoming the ultimate means by which we can "remember" God not just as a distant deity, but as our reconciled Father.

Furthermore, the psalmist's ability to remember God from any location, even "the land of Jordan," points to the New Covenant reality that God's presence is no longer confined to a temple in Jerusalem. Jesus declared, "where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" ([Matthew 18:20](/matthew/18-20 "Matthew 18:20 - Jesus' Presence Among Believers")), and promised His disciples, "I am with you always, to the end of the age" ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Promise of Presence")). The Holy Spirit, sent by Christ, indwells every believer ([John 14:16-18](/john/14-16 "John 14:16-18 - The Spirit's Indwelling")), making every place a potential sanctuary and every moment an opportunity to draw near to God. Thus, the Christian, though they may feel "cast down" by life's trials, can actively remember and experience God's intimate presence through Christ, having constant access to the throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Access to God's Throne of Grace")) and resting in the assurance that nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus ([Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38 "Romans 8:38-39 - God's Unfailing Love")).

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 61:2

From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock [that] is higher than I.

Jonah 2:7

When my soul fainted within me I remembered the LORD: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.

Deuteronomy 3:8

And we took at that time out of the hand of the two kings of the Amorites the land that [was] on this side Jordan, from the river of Arnon unto mount Hermon;

Deuteronomy 3:9

([Which] Hermon the Sidonians call Sirion; and the Amorites call it Shenir;)

Psalms 22:1

¶ To the chief Musician upon Aijeleth Shahar, A Psalm of David. My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? [why art thou so] far from helping me, [and from] the words of my roaring?

Psalms 43:4

Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.

2 Samuel 17:22

¶ Then David arose, and all the people that [were] with him, and they passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan.