Psalms 142:7 Meaning and Explanation
“Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist envisions deliverance and restoration that will lead to praise and community.
The Context of Psalms 142:7
The psalmist envisions a future of deliverance, praise, restored community, and God's abundant blessing.
What Does Psalms 142:7 Mean?
'Bring my soul out of prison' uses the image of literal imprisonment to capture spiritual and emotional captivity. The psalmist's distress is like being locked away. Yet the prayer moves beyond deliverance to its purpose: 'that I may praise thy name.' Release from prison exists so that thanksgiving can flow. Praise is not a bonus but the goal of deliverance.
The psalm concludes with a vision of restored community and divine generosity. When the psalmist is freed, 'the righteous shall compass me about'—the faithful will gather round. And God 'shall deal bountifully'—lavish goodness and plenty—with the one who was brought so very low. This ending looks beyond survival to abundance and belonging.
Psalms 142:7 in the Original Language
compass (סָבַב, sabab) — to surround, encompass, or circle about; conveys protection and community gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 142:7
What does Psalms 142:7 mean?
The psalmist envisions deliverance and restoration that will lead to praise and community.
What is the context of Psalms 142:7?
The psalmist envisions a future of deliverance, praise, restored community, and God's abundant blessing.