Old Testament
Psalms 38:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I am feeble and severely broken; I have roared because of the turmoil in my heart.
Compare translations
I am feeble and sore broken: I have roared by reason of the disquietness of my heart.
What Psalms 38:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses deep emotional and physical distress. The words 'feeble' and 'sore broken' indicate a state of weakness and suffering. The psalmist feels overwhelmed by turmoil and disquiet in their heart, leading to a sense of despair. The imagery of 'roaring' suggests a cry for help, reflecting the intensity of their pain. This verse captures the raw human experience of feeling broken and troubled, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and comfort. It highlights the reality that even the strongest individuals can feel weak and vulnerable at times. The psalmist's honesty about their struggles serves as a reminder that it is okay to express our pain and seek support during difficult moments. This vulnerability can lead to healing and restoration as one turns to God for solace and strength.
How to apply Psalms 38:8 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges, it's important to acknowledge our feelings of weakness and distress. Instead of hiding our pain, we should express it honestly, whether through prayer, journaling, or talking to someone we trust. Seeking support can lead to healing and renewed strength.
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.

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. 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.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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 38:8
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 38:8
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
What does Psalms 38:8 mean?
Psalms 38:8 expresses the psalmist's deep emotional and physical pain, highlighting feelings of weakness and turmoil in their heart. It reflects a cry for help amidst suffering.
What is the meaning of 'feeble' in Psalms 38:8?
In Psalms 38:8, 'feeble' indicates a state of weakness and vulnerability, suggesting that the psalmist feels overwhelmed by their struggles and unable to cope.
What does 'roared' signify in Psalms 38:8?
The term 'roared' in Psalms 38:8 signifies an intense cry for help, illustrating the depth of the psalmist's emotional distress and the urgency of their need for relief.
How can I apply Psalms 38:8 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 38:8 by acknowledging your feelings of distress and seeking support when facing challenges. Expressing your pain honestly can lead to healing and strength.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.