Old Testament

Psalms 107:39

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Again, they are diminished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.

What Psalms 107:39 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse highlights a cycle of suffering experienced by people who face oppression and hardship. It suggests that despite previous deliverance or improvement in their situation, they can find themselves in a low state again due to external pressures and internal struggles. The terms 'oppression,' 'affliction,' and 'sorrow' indicate the various forms of distress that can lead to a diminished state. This reflects a broader theme in the Psalms where the psalmist acknowledges the reality of human suffering while also pointing towards the hope of eventual restoration. The verse serves as a reminder that life can be filled with challenges, but it also encourages readers to seek help and healing from their troubles, trusting in a higher power for support and guidance.

How to apply Psalms 107:39 to your life

In times of hardship, remember that feeling diminished is a common human experience. Seek support from your community and turn to faith for strength. Acknowledge your struggles, but also look for ways to uplift yourself and others, fostering resilience and hope in difficult times.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Rachel smiling as she holds her newborn son Joseph inside a lamp-lit tent

Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Joseph, Jacob's son

Wide frontal view of the Great Ziggurat of Ur, with a central brick stair rising between broad buttressed mud-brick walls in a hazy desert setting.

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Ur

The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 107:39

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Psalms 107:39

At a Glance — the Book of Psalms

Author
David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written
Around 1000-500 BC
Genre
Poetry and worship
Original Audience
Worshipers of Israel

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 107:39 mean?

Psalms 107:39 describes how people can experience a decline in their circumstances due to oppression, affliction, and sorrow. It emphasizes the cycle of suffering that can occur even after moments of relief, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by individuals.

What is the meaning of oppression in Psalms 107:39?

In Psalms 107:39, oppression refers to the unjust treatment and burdens placed on individuals, leading to their suffering and diminished state. It signifies the external pressures that can weigh heavily on people, contributing to their hardships.

How does Psalms 107:39 relate to hope?

While Psalms 107:39 acknowledges the reality of suffering, it also implies that there is hope for restoration. The verse encourages individuals to seek support and healing, trusting that they can overcome their struggles.

What themes are present in Psalms 107:39?

Psalms 107:39 encompasses themes of suffering, oppression, affliction, sorrow, and the potential for restoration and hope. These themes reflect the human experience of facing challenges while also seeking resilience and support.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.