Psalms 107:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 107:9
9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
Chapter Context
Psalms 107 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, holiness, obedience. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 107:9
9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
Analysis
This verse explains what God's 'wonderful works' (v. 8) include. 'For he satisfieth the longing soul' uses shaqaq (שָׁקַק), meaning panting or longing soul—deep, desperate desire. God satisfies this thirst. 'And filleth the hungry soul with goodness' uses male (מָלֵא), to fill full. God doesn't partially satisfy but completely fills with His goodness (tov, טוֹב). This declares God's sufficiency—He fully satisfies spiritual hunger and thirst. Jesus applied this to Himself: He is the bread of life; whoever comes will never hunger or thirst (John 6:35). Only God can satisfy the soul's deepest longings; everything else leaves emptiness.
Historical Context
Israel's wilderness experience proved God satisfies: He provided manna and water, sustaining 2 million people for 40 years. For returning exiles, God satisfied their longing for home. Spiritually, this testifies that God alone satisfies the human soul, created for relationship with Him. Augustine's famous quote captures this: 'Thou hast made us for Thyself, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee.'
Reflection
- What are the soul's deepest longings that only God can satisfy?
- How does Jesus as the bread of life and living water fulfill this promise?
- What pursuits do people chase seeking satisfaction that only God can provide?
Cross-References
- Good: Psalms 34:10, Jeremiah 31:14, Luke 1:53
- Parallel theme: Psalms 22:26, 132:15, 146:7, Jeremiah 31:25, Matthew 5:6