Psalms 51:8

KJV

Make me to hear joy and gladness; [that] the bones [which] thou hast broken may rejoice.

KJV (with Strong's)

Make me to hear {H8085}{H8686)} joy {H8342} and gladness {H8057}; that the bones {H6106} which thou hast broken {H1794}{H8765)} may rejoice {H1523}{H8799)}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Let me hear the sound of joy and gladness, so that the bones you crushed can rejoice.

Berean Standard Bible

Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones You have crushed rejoice.

American Standard Version

Make me to hear joy and gladness, That the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 51:8 is a profound and deeply personal petition from King David, expressing his intense longing for spiritual and emotional restoration after the devastating consequences of his sin. Following his heartfelt confession and plea for purification, David now yearns for God to re-establish within him the vibrant experience of joy and gladness, specifically requesting that the deep inner brokenness caused by his transgression might be transformed into rejoicing. This verse encapsulates the powerful hope that even the most profound spiritual wounds can be healed by divine grace, leading to a complete renewal of the soul's vitality and a return to God-given delight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 51:8 is strategically placed within one of the most significant penitential psalms in the biblical Psalter, traditionally attributed to King David following his grievous sins involving Bathsheba and Uriah. The psalm commences with a desperate cry for divine mercy and thorough cleansing (vv. 1-2), immediately followed by David's profound acknowledgment of the depth and personal nature of his sin, primarily against God Himself (vv. 3-6). Verse 7 then articulates a specific request for ritual and spiritual purification, employing the vivid imagery of hyssop. Verse 8 marks a crucial pivot: having confessed his sin and sought cleansing, David now moves to the desired *outcome* of that forgiveness – the restoration of inner joy and spiritual vitality. This verse anticipates and sets the stage for David's subsequent pleas for a renewed spirit and the restoration of the joy of salvation found in [Psalms 51:10-12](/psalms/51-10-12 "Psalms 51:10-12 - A Plea for a Clean Heart and Renewed Spirit"), underscoring that genuine repentance seeks not merely the absence of guilt but the active presence of God-given joy and a vibrant relationship with the Creator.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** This psalm is traditionally and powerfully linked to the deeply troubling narrative found in [2 Samuel 11-12](/2_samuel/11-12 "2 Samuel 11-12 - David's Sin and Nathan's Confrontation"), where the prophet Nathan courageously confronts King David regarding his adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of her husband, Uriah the Hittite. David's profound anguish, expressed through the imagery of "broken bones," vividly reflects the deep spiritual and psychological distress that unconfessed sin, particularly for a king, inflicted upon individuals in ancient Israel. In the ancient Near East, the concept of "bones" frequently symbolized the very core of a person's being, their strength, vitality, and inner essence. To have one's bones "broken" was a potent and common idiom in laments and wisdom literature, conveying a complete internal collapse, existential anguish, and the profound loss of inner peace, akin to a severe physical illness or debilitating injury. This imagery underscores the comprehensive nature of David's suffering and the pervasive impact of his transgression.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 51:8 contributes significantly to several overarching theological and narrative themes within the psalm and the broader biblical narrative of redemption. Foremost, it powerfully highlights the **devastating impact of sin** on the human spirit, demonstrating how transgression can lead to a profound loss of joy, inner brokenness, and spiritual decay, even for someone as favored as a king. Simultaneously, it profoundly underscores **God's sovereign power to heal and restore**, asserting that only divine intervention can transform such deep spiritual anguish into vibrant rejoicing. This verse also speaks directly to the theme of **spiritual restoration**, emphasizing that true repentance is not merely about avoiding punishment or external consequences but about re-establishing a vibrant, joyful, and intimate relationship with God. It anticipates the **fruit of genuine repentance**, showing that divine forgiveness brings not just relief from guilt but a renewed capacity for joy, praise, and faithful service, as further articulated in [Psalms 51:12-13](/psalms/51-12-13 "Psalms 51:12-13 - Restore the Joy of Salvation and Teach Transgressors").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ_):** This word (H8085) carries a much broader and deeper meaning than mere auditory perception. In Hebrew thought, "to hear" often implies to listen attentively, to understand, to obey, and, crucially, to *experience* or *perceive* something profoundly. David is not simply asking to hear sounds of joy; he is pleading for God to actively *cause* him to experience, feel, and internalize joy and gladness within his innermost being. It signifies a profound, internal reception and embrace of these positive spiritual and emotional states.
* **Bones (Hebrew, _ʻetsem_):** Far from referring solely to physical skeletal structures, "bones" (H6106) in Hebrew idiom frequently symbolize the deepest part of a person's being, their core strength, vitality, or inner self. It represents the very essence of one's existence, encompassing physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. When David speaks of his "bones," he refers to his innermost being, his very foundation, which has been shattered by the weight of his sin and divine conviction.
* **Broken (Hebrew, _dâkâh_):** This verb (H1794) means to collapse, to be crushed, or to be contrite. When applied to "bones" in this metaphorical sense, it denotes a profound internal collapse, severe spiritual distress, existential anguish, and the complete shattering of inner peace and spiritual health. It signifies the crushing weight of sin and the resulting sense of divine displeasure and judgment that had permeated David's entire being, leaving him in a state of deep spiritual and emotional devastation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Make me to hear joy and gladness":** This is a direct, earnest, and dependent petition to God. David is not passively waiting for joy to return; he is actively pleading for divine intervention to *cause* him to experience these emotions. The phrase "make me to hear" implies an active impartation from God, a spiritual awakening or restoration that will allow him to perceive and embrace the vibrancy of life and God's favor once more. It is a desperate request for the return of positive spiritual and emotional states that have been profoundly lost due to the impact of sin.
* **"that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice":** This clause reveals the profound purpose and desired outcome of David's plea. The "bones" represent his deepest inner being, his very core, which he humbly acknowledges God has "broken." This brokenness is the spiritual and emotional devastation caused by his sin and the accompanying divine discipline or conviction. The fervent desire is for this profound internal shattering to be miraculously transformed into vibrant rejoicing. It signifies a complete spiritual healing and a renewal of vitality from the very core of his being, demonstrating that only God can mend the deepest wounds of the soul and turn despair into delight.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 51:8 is rich with powerful **imagery** and profound **figurative language**. The central device is the vivid **metaphor** of "broken bones," which powerfully conveys the deep inner anguish, spiritual devastation, and profound loss of vitality experienced by David as a direct consequence of his sin. This is not a literal physical injury, but rather a potent idiom for a shattered spirit and a soul crushed under the immense weight of guilt and divine displeasure. The "bones" are also subtly **personified** as being able to "rejoice," emphasizing that the desired restoration is not superficial but penetrates to the very core of David's being, transforming his deepest pain and brokenness into profound gladness and spiritual vibrancy. Furthermore, the phrase "thou hast broken" employs **anthropomorphism**, attributing a human-like action (breaking) to God, signifying that the internal pain David feels is a direct and righteous consequence of God's conviction and judgment, designed not for destruction but to lead to genuine repentance and ultimate healing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates the theological truth that sin has devastating consequences, extending beyond mere guilt to actively robbing the believer of joy and inflicting deep spiritual brokenness. It underscores the biblical principle that genuine joy and gladness are inextricably linked to a right relationship with God, and that separation from Him, even through unconfessed sin, inevitably leads to inner decay and spiritual malaise. The verse also powerfully highlights God's unique and sovereign power to heal and restore what sin has shattered. David's desperate plea is a testament to the unwavering belief that divine grace is infinitely sufficient to mend the deepest spiritual wounds, transforming profound sorrow into vibrant rejoicing. It points to God as the ultimate and sole source of spiritual vitality, emotional well-being, and true inner peace, emphasizing that comprehensive restoration comes from His hand alone.

* [Psalm 32:3-5](/psalms/32-3-5 "Psalm 32:3-5 - The Misery of Unconfessed Sin and the Joy of Forgiveness")
* [Isaiah 61:3](/isaiah/61-3 "Isaiah 61:3 - Oil of Joy for Mourning")
* [Joel 2:25](/joel/2-25 "Joel 2:25 - God's Promise of Restoration")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 51:8 offers a profound and convicting mirror for believers today, reminding us that sin, whether overt and scandalous or hidden and subtle, has tangible and often devastating effects on our inner spiritual and emotional landscape. It teaches us that a profound loss of joy, a pervasive sense of spiritual brokenness, and deep internal anguish can be direct consequences of unconfessed sin, even when external circumstances appear normal or favorable. David's raw and honest lament encourages us to acknowledge the full weight of our transgressions and to bring our deepest spiritual wounds, our "broken bones," before God with humility and desperation. It offers immense hope, demonstrating that even when we feel utterly shattered by our failures and the conviction of sin, God possesses the unique and miraculous power to restore us. True repentance opens the door for God to mend what sin has broken, transforming our sorrow into genuine, Spirit-given joy and renewed vitality. This verse serves as an enduring model for humble, desperate prayer for spiritual and emotional renewal, inviting us to trust implicitly in God's boundless capacity to heal our deepest hurts and restore our gladness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How has unconfessed sin, or even a subtle drifting from God, impacted your inner joy and spiritual vitality in the past or present?**
* **In what specific ways do you experience a sense of "broken bones" in your spiritual journey, and how do you actively seek God's healing and restoration for those deeply wounded areas?**
* **What does it truly mean to "hear joy and gladness" from God in a deeply personal and experiential way, and how can you cultivate that profound experience in your daily walk with Him?**

### FAQ
**Is the phrase "the bones which thou hast broken" meant to be taken literally as a physical injury?**

Answer: No, the phrase "the bones which thou hast broken" is a powerful and profound Hebrew idiom, not a literal description of physical injury. In ancient Hebrew thought, "bones" often represented the deepest core of a person's being, their strength, vitality, or inner self. To have one's bones "broken" metaphorically signifies profound spiritual or emotional anguish, a complete internal collapse, severe distress, or existential despair. It conveys the crushing weight of sin and the accompanying sense of divine displeasure that had permeated David's entire being, leaving him spiritually shattered and devoid of joy. This vivid imagery emphasizes the depth of the internal pain and the desperate need for a complete spiritual restoration from the very foundation of his being.

**How does God "break" a person's bones in this context? Is it punitive or redemptive?**

Answer: In this context, God "breaking" David's bones refers to the profound spiritual and emotional anguish that results from sin and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. It is not a cruel or arbitrary act of punishment, but rather a divine process of discipline and conviction designed to bring about genuine repentance and ultimate restoration. When a person sins, especially against a holy God, the natural consequence is a separation from His presence, which leads to a loss of peace, joy, and spiritual vitality. God, in His infinite mercy and wisdom, allows this internal "brokenness" to be felt so that the individual is driven to confession, humility, and a fervent return to Him. It is a painful but ultimately redemptive process, intended to lead to the healing and restoration of joy that David so earnestly prays for in [Psalms 51:8](/psalms/51-8 "Psalms 51:8 - Make Me to Hear Joy").

**Can true joy and gladness really be restored after deep sin and spiritual brokenness?**

Answer: Yes, absolutely and unequivocally. The entire message of the Gospel is one of radical restoration, profound healing, and new life, even after the most grievous sins and deepest spiritual brokenness. David's prayer in [Psalms 51:8](/psalms/51-8 "Psalms 51:8 - Make Me to Hear Joy") is a powerful testament to this hope, and the rest of the psalm, particularly [Psalms 51:12](/psalms/51-12 "Psalms 51:12 - Restore the Joy of Your Salvation"), anticipates the complete restoration of the "joy of thy salvation." God's forgiveness, made fully possible through the atoning work of Jesus Christ, is complete, comprehensive, and transformative. When we genuinely repent and turn to Him, He not only forgives our sins but also miraculously heals our spiritual wounds, restoring our inner peace, joy, and vitality. This restored joy is not a superficial happiness but a deep, abiding gladness rooted in reconciliation with God, transcending external circumstances and becoming a wellspring of strength.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's poignant plea in Psalms 51:8 for God to "Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice" finds its ultimate, most profound, and complete fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. David's experience of spiritual brokenness and his desperate longing for restoration perfectly foreshadow the universal human condition under the pervasive weight of sin and the divine solution offered uniquely in Christ. Jesus is the ultimate Healer of all brokenness, the one who came specifically to bind up the brokenhearted and proclaim liberty to the captives ([Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - The Spirit of the Lord is Upon Me")). Our spiritual "bones" are broken not merely by individual transgressions but by the pervasive, corrupting power of sin that alienates us from a holy God. Christ, through His perfect life, atoning sacrifice on the cross, and victorious resurrection, bore the full weight of our sin and its devastating consequences, including the spiritual anguish and profound separation from God. He offers not just forgiveness of sins, but a complete spiritual renewal, inviting all who are weary and heavy-laden to come to Him and find true rest for their souls ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus' Invitation to the Weary")). Through His wounds, we are miraculously healed ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - By His Wounds We Are Healed")), and the deep, abiding joy that David yearned for is made fully accessible to us in Him. When we are united with Christ by faith, we become a new creation ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), and the joy of the Lord becomes our strength, fulfilling Jesus' own desire that our joy might be made full and complete in Him ([John 15:11](/john/15-11 "John 15:11 - Jesus' Joy Made Full")). He is our peace, our joy, and our ultimate restoration.

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

Matthew 5:4

Blessed [are] they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

Psalms 6:2

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

Psalms 6:3

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

Hosea 6:1

¶ Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.

Hosea 6:2

After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight.

Job 5:17

¶ Behold, happy [is] the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:

Job 5:18

For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.