Psalms 74:19 Meaning and Explanation
“O deliver not the soul of thy turtledove unto the multitude of the wicked: forget not the congregation of thy poor for ever.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist pleads for God to protect the vulnerable and remember the poor who have suffered most.
The Context of Psalms 74:19
Appeal for God's protection of the vulnerable and poor.
What Does Psalms 74:19 Mean?
The 'turtledove' is a gentle, defenseless creature—a metaphor for Israel in her weakness and vulnerability. The image is tender and poignant: do not abandon the defenseless to their predators. The 'multitude of the wicked' crushes and devours the innocent. This appeal to God's mercy asks Him to see the vulnerability of His people and act on that compassion.
The second phrase focuses on the 'congregation of thy poor'—those with no power or resources to defend themselves. While the mighty may survive conquest through adaptation or collaboration, the poor face annihilation. The plea 'forget not... for ever' is direct: remember their faces, their names, their dependence on You. The poor are presented as God's particular concern and responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 74:19
What does Psalms 74:19 mean?
The psalmist pleads for God to protect the vulnerable and remember the poor who have suffered most.
What is the context of Psalms 74:19?
Appeal for God's protection of the vulnerable and poor.