Old Testament
Psalms 39:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear to my cry; do not be silent at my tears. For I am a stranger with you, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were."
Compare translations
Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.
What Psalms 39:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is pleading with God to listen to his prayers and cries for help. He feels vulnerable and alone, comparing himself to a stranger or traveler in a foreign land. This reflects a deep sense of longing for connection and understanding from God. The mention of tears signifies his emotional pain and distress, emphasizing the need for divine attention and comfort. The psalmist acknowledges that he is not the only one who has felt this way; his ancestors also experienced similar feelings of being out of place. This highlights a universal human experience of seeking belonging and support from God during difficult times.
How to apply Psalms 39:12 to your life
When facing struggles, we can turn to God in prayer, just as the psalmist did. Acknowledging our feelings of loneliness or distress can help us seek comfort and support from God. Remember, it’s okay to express our emotions and ask for help.
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 39:12
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 39:12
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 39:12 mean?
Psalms 39:12 expresses the psalmist's plea for God to listen to his prayers and acknowledge his suffering. He feels like a stranger in the world, longing for God's comfort and understanding during his emotional pain.
What is the significance of being a 'stranger' in Psalms 39:12?
Being a 'stranger' in Psalms 39:12 highlights the psalmist's feelings of isolation and vulnerability. It reflects a common human experience of feeling out of place and the desire for connection with God.
What does the phrase 'do not be silent at my tears' mean?
The phrase 'do not be silent at my tears' signifies the psalmist's deep emotional distress and his urgent need for God's attention and comfort. It emphasizes the importance of being heard during times of suffering.
How can I apply Psalms 39:12 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 39:12 by turning to God in prayer when you feel lonely or distressed. Acknowledging your emotions and seeking divine support can help you find comfort during tough times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.