Old Testament

Psalms 61:5

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

For you, O God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.

What Psalms 61:5 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist expresses gratitude to God for listening to his promises and commitments. The term "vows" refers to the pledges made to God, indicating a deep relationship and trust. The psalmist acknowledges that God has granted him a special inheritance, which is the legacy of those who revere and honor God. This heritage signifies blessings, protection, and a close connection to God’s people. The verse highlights the importance of faithfulness in one’s relationship with God and the assurance that He responds to those who earnestly seek Him. It reassures believers that their devotion is recognized and rewarded, emphasizing the significance of living a life that honors God and aligns with His will. The psalmist’s confidence in God’s faithfulness serves as an encouragement for others to trust in God’s promises and to maintain their commitments to Him, knowing that He values their devotion.

How to apply Psalms 61:5 to your life

This verse encourages us to remain faithful in our commitments to God. When we make promises to Him, we should follow through, knowing that He hears us. Trusting in God’s faithfulness can strengthen our relationship with Him and remind us of the blessings that come from honoring Him.

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 Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

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

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 61:5

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 61:5

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 61:5 mean by 'vows'?

In Psalms 61:5, 'vows' refer to the promises and commitments made to God. These can include pledges of devotion, prayers for help, or commitments to live according to His will. The verse emphasizes the importance of honoring these vows as a sign of faithfulness in one's relationship with God.

How does God respond to our vows according to this verse?

The verse indicates that God hears our vows, suggesting that He is attentive to our promises and commitments. This implies that when we earnestly seek Him and express our devotion, He acknowledges our faithfulness and responds by granting us a heritage, which includes blessings and a close relationship with Him.

What is the significance of the 'heritage' mentioned in Psalms 61:5?

The 'heritage' in Psalms 61:5 refers to the spiritual inheritance given to those who fear God's name. This heritage symbolizes the blessings, protection, and community that come from being part of God's people. It highlights the rewards of living a life that honors God and the assurance of His presence and support.

How can I apply Psalms 61:5 in my daily life?

To apply Psalms 61:5 in your daily life, focus on being faithful to your commitments to God. Reflect on the promises you've made in prayer or worship and strive to honor them. Trust in God's faithfulness and seek to deepen your relationship with Him, knowing that He values your devotion and will bless you as you live in accordance with His will.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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