Old Testament
Psalms 34:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The LORD is near to those who are of a broken heart, and saves such as are of a contrite spirit.
Compare translations
The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
What Psalms 34:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes God's closeness to those who are suffering or feeling broken. When someone experiences deep sorrow or regret, they may feel isolated or abandoned. However, this scripture reassures us that God is especially present with those who are hurting. The term 'broken heart' refers to emotional pain, while 'contrite spirit' indicates a humble and repentant attitude. God not only comforts these individuals but also actively saves and restores them. This promise highlights God's compassion and readiness to help those in distress, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles. It encourages us to turn to God in our times of need, knowing that He understands our pain and is willing to provide healing and support.
How to apply Psalms 34:18 to your life
In times of sorrow or regret, remember that God is near and ready to help. Reach out to Him in prayer, expressing your feelings and seeking comfort. Surround yourself with supportive friends or community, and allow God's love to heal your brokenness.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary · Psalms 34:18 Meaning
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.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 PlansAsk AI about Psalms 34:18
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Fuller verse explanations
Explore what a verse means, what was happening around it, and how it connects to other Bible passages.
Plain Meaning
The LORD stays close to people whose hearts are broken — crushed by grief, loss, or failure. He rescues those who have a contrite spirit, meaning those who are inwardly beaten down and humbled rather than proud and self-sufficient. The verse says God does not pull away from people at their lowest point; He draws near to them there.
Read It in Context
The psalm has been describing how the LORD hears and delivers people in trouble. Verse 17 says the righteous cry out and the LORD delivers them. Verse 18 follows directly, naming the specific condition of those He is close to: a broken heart and a contrite spirit.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Psalms 34:18 and any verse in the Bible.
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 34:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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
How can I apply Psalms 34:18 in my life?
You can apply this verse by turning to God in prayer during times of distress. Acknowledge your feelings of sorrow or regret and seek His comfort. Additionally, engage with your community for support, and allow yourself to be vulnerable. Remember that God understands your pain and is ready to help you heal.
What does a contrite spirit mean in this verse?
A contrite spirit refers to a heart that is humble, remorseful, and repentant. It indicates an awareness of one's shortcomings and a desire for forgiveness. In the context of this verse, it highlights that God is attentive to those who recognize their need for Him and seek to turn away from their mistakes.
Does this verse promise healing from emotional pain?
Yes, Psalms 34:18 offers a promise of healing and restoration for those who are hurting. It emphasizes that God not only comforts those with broken hearts but also actively works to save and restore them. This assurance encourages individuals to seek God's presence during their struggles.
What should I do when I feel brokenhearted?
When feeling brokenhearted, take time to pray and express your feelings to God. Read comforting scriptures, including Psalms 34:18, to remind yourself of His presence. Consider talking to trusted friends or a counselor for support. Engage in activities that bring you peace and allow yourself to grieve and heal.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.