Psalms 30:9
Psalms 30:9 in Multiple Translations
“What gain is there in my bloodshed, in my descent to the Pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it proclaim Your faithfulness?
What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth?
What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth?
What profit is there in my blood if I go down into the underworld? will the dust give you praise, or be a witness to your help?
What would you gain if I die, if I go down into the pit of death? Would my dust praise you? Would it tell of your trustworthiness?
What profite is there in my blood, when I go downe to the pit? shall the dust giue thankes vnto thee? or shall it declare thy trueth?
'What gain [is] in my blood? In my going down unto corruption? Doth dust thank Thee? doth it declare Thy truth?
“What profit is there in my destruction, if I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise you? Shall it declare your truth?
What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth?
And thou hast not shut me up in the hands of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a spacious place.
I said, “Yahweh, ◄what will you gain if I die?/ you won’t gain anything if I die► [MTY]. ◄In what way will it benefit you?/it won’t benefit you at all► if I go to the place where the dead people are [RHQ]. Dead people are certainly not able to praise you [RHQ], and they are not able to tell others that you are trustworthy [RHQ]!
Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 30:9
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Psalms 30:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
אֵלֶ֣י/ךָ
יְהוָ֣ה
אֶקְרָ֑א
וְ/אֶל
אֲ֝דֹנָ֗/י
אֶתְחַנָּֽן
אֵלֶ֣י/ךָ
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep | Suff
יְהוָ֣ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
אֶקְרָ֑א
qârâʼ
H7121
to call
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
וְ/אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Conj | Prep
אֲ֝דֹנָ֗/י
ʼĂdônây
H136
Lord
N-mp | Suff
אֶתְחַנָּֽן
chânan
H2603
be gracious
V-Hithpael-Imperf-1cs
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 30:9
אֵלֶ֣י/ךָ
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
יְהוָ֣ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
אֶקְרָ֑א
qârâʼ
H7121
"to call"
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
This Hebrew word means to call out to someone or something, often by name. It's used in many situations, like calling for help or reading aloud. In Genesis, God calls out to Adam in the Garden.
Definition: : call_to/invite/entreat 1) to call, call out, recite, read, cry out, proclaim 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to call, cry, utter a loud sound 1a2) to call unto, cry (for help), call (with name of God) 1a3) to proclaim 1a4) to read aloud, read (to oneself), read 1a5) to summon, invite, call for, call and commission, appoint, call and endow 1a6) to call, name, give name to, call by 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to call oneself 1b2) to be called, be proclaimed, be read aloud, be summoned, be named 1c) (Pual) to be called, be named, be called out, be chosen
Usage: Occurs in 689 OT verses. KJV: bewray (self), that are bidden, call (for, forth, self, upon), cry (unto), (be) famous, guest, invite, mention, (give) name, preach, (make) proclaim(-ation), pronounce, publish, read, renowned, say. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 49:1; Judges 1:26.
וְ/אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
אֲ֝דֹנָ֗/י
ʼĂdônây
H136
"Lord"
N-mp | Suff
Adonay is a title used to refer to God, spoken in place of Yahweh as a sign of reverence and respect. It is used throughout the Bible to address God or refer to Him in a formal way. Adonay is a term of worship and devotion.
Definition: Lord - a title, spoken in place of Yahweh in Jewish display of reverence Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 430 OT verses. KJV: (my) Lord. See also: Genesis 15:2; Isaiah 3:17; Psalms 2:4.
אֶתְחַנָּֽן
chânan
H2603
"be gracious"
V-Hithpael-Imperf-1cs
This Hebrew word means to show kindness or favor, often by bending or stooping to help someone in need, as seen in the actions of God towards his people.
Definition: 1) to be gracious, show favour, pity 1a) (Qal) to show favour, be gracious 1b) (Niphal) to be pitied 1c) (Piel) to make gracious, make favourable, be gracious 1d) (Poel) to direct favour to, have mercy on 1e) (Hophal) to be shown favour, be shown consideration 1f) (Hithpael) to seek favour, implore favour
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: beseech, [idiom] fair, (be, find, shew) favour(-able), be (deal, give, grant (gracious(-ly), intreat, (be) merciful, have (shew) mercy (on, upon), have pity upon, pray, make supplication, [idiom] very. See also: Genesis 33:5; Psalms 37:21; Psalms 4:2.
Study Notes — Psalms 30:9
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Psalms 30:9 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Psalms 30:9
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 30:9
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
- Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
- Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
- Cambridge Bible on Psalms 30:9
- Barnes' Notes on Psalms 30:9
- Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
- Sermons on Psalms 30:9
Context — You Turned My Mourning into Dancing
7O LORD, You favored me; You made my mountain stand strong. When You hid Your face, I was dismayed.
8To You, O LORD, I called, and I begged my Lord for mercy:
9“What gain is there in my bloodshed, in my descent to the Pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it proclaim Your faithfulness?
10Hear me, O LORD, and have mercy; O LORD, be my helper.” 11You turned my mourning into dancing; You peeled off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 6:5 | For there is no mention of You in death; who can praise You from Sheol? |
| 2 | Psalms 115:17–18 | It is not the dead who praise the LORD, nor any who descend into silence. But it is we who will bless the LORD, both now and forevermore. Hallelujah! |
| 3 | Isaiah 38:18 | For Sheol cannot thank You; Death cannot praise You. Those who descend to the Pit cannot hope for Your faithfulness. |
| 4 | Ecclesiastes 9:10 | Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might, for in Sheol, where you are going, there is no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom. |
| 5 | Psalms 88:10–12 | Do You work wonders for the dead? Do departed spirits rise up to praise You? Selah Can Your loving devotion be proclaimed in the grave, Your faithfulness in Abaddon ? Will Your wonders be known in the darkness, or Your righteousness in the land of oblivion? |
| 6 | Psalms 118:17 | I will not die, but I will live and proclaim what the LORD has done. |
Psalms 30:9 Summary
This verse is a heartfelt cry from the Psalmist, asking God what the point would be if he were to die, because then he wouldn't be able to praise God or tell others about His faithfulness. The Psalmist is emphasizing that life is precious and that we should make the most of the time we have to serve and praise God (as seen in Psalms 90:12). The Psalmist is also trusting that God will hear his cry and have mercy on him, just as God promises to do in Psalms 145:18. By reflecting on this verse, we can be reminded to make the most of our lives and to trust in God's faithfulness, just like the Psalmist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Pit' referred to in Psalms 30:9?
The 'Pit' is a metaphor for the grave or death, as seen in Psalms 28:1, where the Psalmist cries out to God not to let him be like those who go down to the Pit.
Why does the Psalmist ask if the dust will praise God or proclaim His faithfulness?
The Psalmist is emphasizing the futility of death and the importance of a living testimony, as expressed in Psalms 115:17, which states that it is the living who praise the Lord.
What is the significance of the Psalmist's question about gain in his bloodshed?
The Psalmist is highlighting the idea that there is no benefit or gain in his death, but rather in his life, he can praise and serve God, as seen in Psalms 63:3-4, where he expresses his desire to praise God as long as he lives.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of the Psalms?
This verse fits into the broader theme of the Psalms, which often express the Psalmist's trust in God's deliverance and faithfulness, as seen in Psalms 23:4, where the Psalmist trusts in God's presence even in the valley of the shadow of death.
Reflection Questions
- What are the things in my life that make me feel like I am descending into the 'Pit', and how can I cry out to God for help?
- In what ways can I proclaim God's faithfulness in my life, even in the midst of struggles and challenges?
- How can I prioritize praising God and serving Him while I am still alive, rather than waiting until it is too late?
- What are some ways that I can trust in God's deliverance and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem bleak?
Gill's Exposition on Psalms 30:9
What profit [is there] in my blood?.... Should that be shed, and he die by the hands of his enemies, through divine permission: death is not profitable to a man's self by way of merit; it does not
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 30:9
What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth? What profit ... ? - (cf.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
What profit is there, to wit, unto thee? as the latter part of the verse explains it. What wilt thou gain by it? In my blood, i.e. in my violent death, as blood is frequently used, as ,33 Mt 27:6. When I go down to the pit; when I die. See Poole "". Shall they that are dead, or gone down into the dust, celebrate thy faithfulness and goodness in the land of the living? Or shall my dust or dead corpse praise thee? No, Lord, shouldst thou cut me off in the beginning of my reign, thy name would lose the praises which many will return to thee for my life, and be exposed to reproaches, as if thou hadst not kept thy word with me; and I should lose those opportunities of praising thy name, and serving my generations, which I prize above my life.
Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
Psalms 30:9 What profit [is there] in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth?Ver. 9. What profit is there in my blood, &c.] i.e. In my life, say some; q.d. To what purpose have I lived, since religion is not yet settled? In my death (say others, and better), violent death especially, and out of thy favour? Now, all believers have ever abhorred such a kind of death before they were reconciled to God, and had a true feeling of his grace (Diodati). Shall the dust praise thee? &c.] See Psalms 6:6.
Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
(9) What profit . . .—i.e., to God. For the conception of death as breaking the covenant relation between Israel and Jehovah, and so causing loss to Him as well as to them (for Sheôl had its own king or shepherd, Death) by putting an end to all religious service, comp. Hezekiah’s song; Isaiah 38:18. Comp. also Psalms 6:5, and note Psalms 88:11.) Plainly as yet no hope, not even a dim one, had arisen of praising God beyond the grave. The vision of the New Jerusalem, with the countless throngs of redeemed with harps and palms, was yet for the future.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
Verse 9. What profit is there in my blood] My being cut off will not magnify thy mercy. Let not the sword, therefore, come against me. If spared and pardoned, I will declare thy truth; I will tell to all men what a merciful and gracious Lord I have found. Hear, therefore, O Lord; Psalms 30:10.
Cambridge Bible on Psalms 30:9
9. What advantage would it be to Thee to slay me? Nay, Thou wouldest lose Thy servant’s praises. For the form of the question cp. Job 22:3. The same motive is appealed to in Hezekiah’s prayer, Isaiah 38:18-19. Cp. Psalms 6:5; Psalms 88:10 ff; Psalms 115:17. On this gloomy view of death as the interruption of communion with God, see Introd. p. xciii ff. the dust] Not the dust into which the body is dissolved, but the grave, as in Psalms 22:15; Psalms 22:29. thy truth] God’s faithfulness (Psalms 25:5), which is the object of the praises of the faithful.
Barnes' Notes on Psalms 30:9
What proof is there in my blood - That is, What profit or advantage would there be to thee if I should die? What would be “gained” by it?
Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 30:9
9. What profit… in my blood—He now repeats (Psalms 30:8-10) the argument and urgency of his prayer while in affliction.
Sermons on Psalms 30:9
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Studies in 2 Timothy-01 2 Timothy-1 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the progression of the Christian life using three illustrations: the soldier, the athlete, and the farmer. He emphasizes the need for believ |
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John 1:49-2:4 by St. John Chrysostom | John Chrysostom delves into the importance of understanding the depth of the Divine Scriptures through careful study and prayer. He contrasts the confessions of Peter and Nathanael |
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Rev. 20:14. Death and the Grave by Horatius Bonar | Horatius Bonar preaches on Revelation 20:14, emphasizing God's ultimate victory over death and the grave, which are personified as twin enemies of humanity. He explains that death |
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Self Denial (Reading) by John Wesley | In this video, James Christian introduces the John Wesley Sermon series and encourages listeners to engage with classic Christian texts in audiobook form. He emphasizes the importa |
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The Days of Our Flesh by Steve Hill | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not wasting time and being motivated to make a difference in the world. He encourages the audience to seek a pastor who wil |
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(Through the Bible) Ecclesiastes 7-12 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering God in one's youth. He highlights that most conversions to Jesus Christ happen during the teenage years and en |
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One Lion; Two Lions; No Lion at All by C.H. Spurgeon | C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of slothfulness, using the metaphor of lions to illustrate the excuses people make to avoid taking action, particularly in their spiritual lives. |