Old Testament

Psalms 86:1

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the psalmist is calling out to God, asking Him to listen to his plea.

Author: David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written: Around 1000-500 BC
Genre: Poetry and worship
Original Audience: Worshipers of Israel

CBTClear Bible Translation

Bow down your ear, O LORD, hear me, for I am poor and needy.

KJVKing James Version

Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and needy.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist is calling out to God, asking Him to listen to his plea. The phrase "Bow down your ear" suggests a deep desire for God’s attention and compassion. The psalmist identifies himself as "poor and needy," which reflects a state of vulnerability and dependence on God. This acknowledgment of neediness is significant, as it shows humility and an understanding that he cannot rely on his own strength or resources. The psalmist is not just expressing physical poverty but also spiritual and emotional need. By appealing to God in this way, he demonstrates faith that God will respond to his cries for help. This verse sets the tone for the rest of the psalm, which continues to explore themes of mercy, protection, and trust in God’s goodness. It serves as a reminder that in our moments of desperation, we can turn to God, who is always willing to listen and help those who seek Him sincerely. Explore related prayer.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 86:1 to your life

When facing challenges or feeling overwhelmed, remember to turn to God in prayer. Acknowledge your needs and vulnerabilities, just as the psalmist did. Trust that God hears your cries and is ready to provide support and guidance in your time of need.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 86:1 mean in simple terms?

Psalms 86:1 expresses a heartfelt plea from the psalmist to God, asking Him to listen to his cry for help. The phrase 'Bow down your ear' indicates a desire for God's attention and compassion. The psalmist identifies as 'poor and needy,' highlighting his vulnerability and dependence on God for support, both physically and spiritually.

How can I apply Psalms 86:1 in my life?

You can apply Psalms 86:1 by turning to God in prayer during difficult times. Acknowledge your struggles and vulnerabilities, just as the psalmist did. This verse encourages you to trust that God hears your prayers and is willing to help you. Remember that it's okay to express your needs and seek divine assistance.

What themes are present in Psalms 86:1?

Psalms 86:1 encompasses several key themes, including prayer, humility, and dependence on God. It highlights the importance of recognizing our vulnerabilities and turning to God for mercy and support. The verse also emphasizes faith, showing that in times of need, we can trust in God's goodness and willingness to listen.

Why does the psalmist refer to himself as 'poor and needy'?

The psalmist refers to himself as 'poor and needy' to convey his state of vulnerability and reliance on God. This acknowledgment reflects both physical and spiritual poverty, emphasizing that he cannot rely on his own strength. It illustrates humility and the understanding that true help comes from God.

Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

Premium

Unlock the full Psalms summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.

Verse 2 →