Old Testament

Psalms 34:9

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

O fear the LORD, you his saints, for there is no want to those who fear him.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him.

What Psalms 34:9 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse encourages believers to have a deep respect and reverence for God, emphasizing that those who honor Him will find their needs met. The term 'fear' here signifies a profound respect rather than terror. The verse reassures the faithful that God provides for them, ensuring they lack nothing essential. It highlights the relationship between reverence for God and the blessings that follow. The psalmist, addressing the saints, reminds them that their devotion and fear of the Lord lead to a fulfilling life, free from want. This assurance is a call to trust in God's provision and care, reinforcing the idea that true security comes from a relationship with Him. In essence, the verse serves as a reminder that prioritizing God in our lives leads to spiritual and material sufficiency, encouraging believers to cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord as a foundation for their faith and well-being.

How to apply Psalms 34:9 to your life

To apply this verse, cultivate a respectful relationship with God through prayer and worship. Trust that He will meet your needs as you honor Him. Reflect on areas of your life where you can deepen your reverence for God, knowing that this leads to fulfillment and security.

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 Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

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

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 34:9

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 34:9

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 34:9 mean?

Psalms 34:9 encourages believers to have a deep respect for God, assuring them that those who honor Him will have their needs met. It emphasizes that true security and fulfillment come from a relationship with God.

What is the meaning of 'fear the Lord' in Psalms 34:9?

In Psalms 34:9, 'fear the Lord' means to have a profound respect and reverence for God, rather than being afraid of Him. This respect leads to blessings and fulfillment in life.

How can I apply Psalms 34:9 in my life?

To apply Psalms 34:9, focus on building a respectful relationship with God through prayer and worship. Trust that as you honor Him, He will meet your needs and provide for you.

What themes are present in Psalms 34:9?

Psalms 34:9 includes themes of fear of the Lord, provision, faithfulness, trust, blessings, and reverence. These themes highlight the importance of honoring God in order to receive His care and support.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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