Menu

Psalms 69:16 — Word Study

Depth

WLCעֲנֵ֣נִי יְ֭הוָה כִּי־ ט֣וֹב חַסְדֶּ֑ךָ כְּרֹ֥ב רַ֝חֲמֶ֗יךָ פְּנֵ֣ה אֵלָֽי׃

BSAnotʼal to overflowshâṭaph Shibbolethshibbôl Water (Gate)mayim notʼal to swallow upbâlaʻ depthmᵉtsôwlâh notʼal to shutʼâṭar uponʻal wellbᵉʼêr lippeh

Word
Listen & take awayPsalms 69
English ↓ Download MP3 The Berean Standard Bible chapter audio already hosted for the site's Bible section — verse 16 is in this chapter.
Hebrew ↓ Download MP3 The Masoretic text of this chapter, read aloud. Read by Abraham Shmuelof, courtesy of Audio Scriptures International. Chapter divisions by the Academy of Ancient Languages..
Say the word Each Hebrew word carries its transliteration ('e.Lai) — no per-word recordings of the Hebrew exist to link to.
Take it away
Psalms 69:16quick helps
In a sentenceThe psalmist pleads with the LORD for a response based on His goodness and compassion.
Who is speakingThe psalmist, addressing God directly as Yahweh.
Where we areIn a moment of distress, the psalmist seeks divine intervention.
The hard wordחַסְדֶּךָ
Take awayThe psalmist's plea emphasizes God's character as loving and compassionate.
8 commentators on this verse Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them › clause verbאַל The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
How rare are these words?in the Old Testament

Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.

Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.

Deep Study — Psalms 69:16

Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.

Context — A Cry for Helpgenerated

15Do not let the floods engulf me or the depths swallow me up; let not the Pit close its mouth over me.
16Answer me, O LORD, for Your loving devotion is good; turn to me in keeping with Your great compassion.
17Hide not Your face from Your servant, for I am in distress. Answer me quickly!
18Draw near to my soul and redeem me; ransom me because of my foes.

Psalm 69:16 is a heartfelt plea from the psalmist, who is in distress and calls upon the LORD for an answer. The context reveals a deep sense of urgency and reliance on God's loving devotion and compassion. This psalm reflects the struggles of the faithful and their dependence on God's mercy, as seen in surrounding verses that express desperation and a longing for divine help.


Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1Psalm 36:7How precious is Your loving devotion, O God, that the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings!
2Psalm 63:3Because Your loving devotion is better than life, my lips will glorify You.
3Psalm 109:21But You, O GOD, the Lord, deal kindly with me for the sake of Your name; deliver me by the goodness of Your loving devotion.
4Psalm 25:16Turn to me and be gracious, for I am lonely and afflicted.
5Psalm 26:11But I will walk with integrity; redeem me and be merciful to me.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 10 references, hung on the phrase they belong to


The Key Word חַסְדֶּךָ, chas.De.khagenerated

The word חֶסֶד (*chesed*) is a noun that refers to kindness, mercy, or covenant loyalty. It emphasizes the steadfast love and faithfulness of God towards His people. In this verse, the psalmist appeals to God's character, reminding Him of His loving devotion, which is described as good.

The parsing indicates that חַסְדֶּךָ is in the construct form, meaning 'your loving devotion', which personalizes the plea. It highlights the psalmist's reliance on God's attributes during a time of need.


How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated

This study reads the verse in the Berean Standard Bible, so the BSB is the wording every comparison below is made against.


Sentence Structuregenerated

The main verb of the verse is עֲנֵ֣נִי, answer me, which governs the plea directed at God. The structure includes two clauses: the first presents the reason for the plea, and the second expresses a request based on God's attributes.

The sentence flows from a direct address to God, followed by a justification for the request based on God's goodness and compassion. This order emphasizes the psalmist's reliance on God's character.


Septuagint Backgroundgenerated

The Septuagint translates עֲנֵ֣נִי as καταποντισάτω, which suggests a sense of drowning or overwhelming need. This choice indicates a more intense urgency in the plea for help.

The term used for חַסְדֶּךָ in the Septuagint is μηδὲ, which may reflect a different nuance in understanding God's mercy compared to the Hebrew text.


In plain words — the whole versegenerated

Psalm 69:16 is a prayer where the psalmist asks the LORD to answer him because of His goodness and compassion. The psalmist is in distress and seeks God's help, highlighting the importance of God's loving nature.


Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated

What does the psalmist mean by asking God to answer him?

The psalmist is expressing a deep need for God's intervention and guidance during a time of trouble, relying on God's character.

Why does the psalmist emphasize God's loving devotion?

The emphasis on God's loving devotion highlights the psalmist's belief in God's faithfulness and mercy, which is crucial during times of distress.

How does this verse reflect the theme of God's compassion?

This verse reflects the theme of God's compassion by showing the psalmist's reliance on God's tender mercies and lovingkindness in a moment of need.

What can we learn from the psalmist's plea?

We can learn the importance of turning to God in times of trouble, trusting in His goodness and compassion.


Reflection Questionsgenerated

  1. In what areas of my life do I need to seek God's answer and intervention?
  2. How can I remind myself of God's loving devotion when I face challenges?
  3. What does it mean for me to rely on God's compassion in my daily life?
  4. How can I express my needs to God as the psalmist does in this verse?

The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it

Early church fathers, like Augustine of Hippo, reference this verse to emphasize God's mercy and the psalmist's need for divine response.

Augustine of HippoExposition on Psalms 69 354–430
"Hearken unto me, O Lord, for sweet is Your mercy" [Psalms 69:16].
Early Church Fathers on Psalms 69 →

Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse

Each of these wrote on Psalms 69:16 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.

John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Hear me, O Lord; for thy lovingkindness [is] good,.... His lovingkindness to him, not only as his Son, but as Mediator; and which is a love of complacency and delight, and was from eternity, and will

Read John Gill on Psalms 69 →
Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's Commentary

But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O LORD, in an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation.

Read Robert Jamieson on Psalms 69 →
Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Is good, i.e. is eminently and unspeakably good; the positive degree being put for the superlative, as it is , &c. It is most ready to communicate itself to indigent and miserable creatures.

Read Matthew Poole on Psalms 69 →
John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Psalms 69:16 Hear me, O LORD; for thy lovingkindness [is] good: turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies.Ver. 16. Hear me, O Lord, for thy lovingkindness is good] It is not like the winter sun, that lighteth but heateth not; it is like the summer sun, that doth both.

Read John Trapp on Psalms 69 →
AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible

Verse 16. Thy loving-kindness is good] The word חסד chesed signifies exuberance of kindness; and the word רחמים rachamim, which we translate tender mercies, signifies such affection as mothers bear to their young: and in God, there is רב rob, a multitude, of such tender mercies towards the children of men!

Read AdamClarke on Psalms 69 →
CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges

16. Hear me] Answer me. for thy lovingkindness is good] So Psalms 109:21. turn unto me &c.] According to the abundance of thy compassions turn thee unto me. Cp. Psalms 51:1 note; Lamentations 3:32. ‘Turning’ or ‘looking’ unto him (Psalms 25:16; Psalms 119:132) is the opposite of that ‘hiding of God’s face’ which he deprecates in the next verse.

Read Cambridge on Psalms 69 →
Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Hear me, O L RD, for thy lovingkindness is good - Thy mercy - thy favor - is good; that is, it is ample, abundant, great: it delights in deeds of mercy; in acts of benevolence.

Read Albert Barnes on Psalms 69 →
Daniel Denison Whedon1808–1885Whedon's Commentary on the Bible

16. Good—To be understood in the sense of perfect adaptation to satisfy the soul’s want, and all wants of the creature. Psalms 63:3

Read Daniel Denison Whedon on Psalms 69 →

The verse in English, compared — 16 translations, and where they part company

Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.

Modern formal

BSBBerean Standard Bible2020

Answer me, O LORD, for Your loving devotion is good; turn to me in keeping with Your great compassion.

WEBWorld English Bible2000

Answer me, Yahweh, for your loving kindness is good. According to the multitude of your tender mercies, turn to me.

MSBMajority Standard Bible2022

Answer me, O LORD, for Your loving devotion is good; turn to me in keeping with Your great compassion.

NETBNew English Translation2006

Answer me, O Lord, for your loyal love is good! Because of your great compassion, turn toward me!

Tyndale line

KJVKing James Version1611

Hear me, O LORD; for thy lovingkindness is good: turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies.

ASVAmerican Standard Version1901

Answer me, O Jehovah; for thy lovingkindness is good: According to the multitude of thy tender mercies turn thou unto me.

RVARevised Version, American1894

Answer me, O LORD; for thy lovingkindness is good: according to the multitude of thy tender mercies turn thou unto me.

NWBWebster's Bible1833

Hear me, O LORD; for thy loving-kindness is good: turn to me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies.

GNVGeneva Bible1599

Heare me, O Lord, for thy louing kindnes is good: turne vnto me according to ye multitude of thy tender mercies.

Strictly literal

DBYDarby Translation1890

Answer me, O Jehovah; for thy loving-kindness is good: according to the abundance of thy tender mercies, turn toward me;

YLTYoung's Literal Translation1862

Answer me, O Jehovah, for good [is] Thy kindness, According to the abundance Of Thy mercies turn Thou unto me,

LSVLiteral Standard Version2020

Answer me, O YHWH, for Your kindness [is] good, || Turn to me according to the abundance of Your mercies,

ILTInterlinear Literal Translation2000

(69:17) Answer me, O Lord; for thy kindness is good: according to the multitude of thy mercies turn thou unto me.

ULBUnlocked Literal Bible2017

Answer me, Yahweh, for your covenant faithfulness is good; because your mercies for me are many, turn to me.

Simplified

FBVFree Bible Version2020

Please answer my prayers, Lord, for you are good and love me with your trustworthy love; because of your kindness, please help me.

BBEBible in Basic English1949

Give an answer to my words, O Lord; for your mercy is good: be turned to me, because of your great pity.

Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.


The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank

This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.

clauseclauseverbעֲנֵ֣answerobjectנִיmeclauseיְ֭הוָהO.Yahwehכִּי(dm)clausepredicateט֣וֹב[is].goodnoun phrase · subjectחַסְדֶּ֑loyaltyךָyour.covenantclauseprepositional phrase · prepositionalכְּaccordingnoun phraseרֹ֥בto.the.greatnessnoun phraseרַ֝חֲמֶ֗יyour.compassion(s)ךָyourverbפְּנֵ֣הturnprepositional phrase · prepositionalאֵלָֽtoיme

Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.


The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran

The Masoretic Text and the Septuagint agree closely in wording, with the Septuagint maintaining the essence of the plea. The Dead Sea Scrolls also align with the Masoretic Text, showing consistency in the core message, though some words are partially restored.

Masoretic TextLeningrad Codex, c. AD 1008 — the text this page is built on

עֲנֵ֣נִי יְ֭הוָה כִּי־ ט֣וֹב חַסְדֶּ֑ךָ כְּרֹ֥ב רַ֝חֲמֶ֗יךָ פְּנֵ֣ה אֵלָֽי׃

Septuagintthe Greek the translators chose, word by word
עֲנֵ֣נִיκαταποντισάτωיְ֭הוָהμεכִּי־καταιγὶςט֣וֹבὕδατοςחַסְדֶּ֑ךָμηδὲכְּרֹ֥בμεרַ֝חֲמֶ֗יךָβυθόςפְּנֵ֣הμηδὲאֵלָֽי׃ἐπ’

9 of the 9 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.

Dead Sea Scrolls — 4Q83a copy a thousand years older than the Leningrad Codex

אל תשטפ׳ני שבולת מים ואל תטבע׳ני מצולה ואל תאטר על׳י באר פי

9 words on the leather — 3 partly restored.

Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.


The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with

This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.

Psalms 69:16עוּןanswer meanswer meעוּןיהוהO YahwehO Yahwehיהוהכִּיforforכִּיטוֹב[is] good[is] goodטוֹבחֶ֫סֶדcovenant locovenant loyaltחֶ֫סֶדרֹבaccording taccording to [tרֹברֶ֫חֶםcompassion compassion yourרֶ֫חֶםפָּנָהturnturnפָּנָהאֶלto meto meאֶלרָחַםto have coto have compassרָחַםעָנָהbe occupiebe occupiedעָנָההָיָהto beto beהָיָהטוֹבbe pleasinbe pleasingטוֹבחָסַדbe kindbe kindחָסַדרָבַבto multiplto multiplyרָבַבאִיּוֹבJobJobאִיּוֹבשָׁוַעto cryto cryשָׁוַענְאֻםutteranceutteranceנְאֻםצָבָאarmyarmyצָבָאיָדַעto knowto knowיָדַעיָשָׁרJasharJasharיָשָׁרמַרְאֶהappearanceappearanceמַרְאֶהאֱמֶתtruth: faitruth: faithfulאֱמֶתרֶ֫חֶםwombwombרֶ֫חֶםעֹ֫שֶׁרrichesrichesעֹ֫שֶׁרכֹּחַreptilereptileכֹּחַשָׁבָהto take cato take captiveשָׁבָה
meets it a little oftener than chancemeets it far oftener than chancebuilt from the same roottwo words of the verse share ita word of this versea related word

Lexicons — every word in Psalms 69:16

One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.

Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.

answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
עֲנֵ֣נִי'a.Ne.ni answer me H6030 Verb qal imperative second person masculine singular · suffix
332× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This verb means to sing or make music, but also to respond or give an answer. In the Bible, it is used to describe praising God in song or responding to a question. The KJV translates it as 'sing' or 'answer'.
Tyndale gloss
to dwell
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word עָנָה (*anah*) is built from a primitive root meaning to heed or pay attention, covering a range of meanings including to answer, respond, testify, and sing. It appears in contexts where one responds to speech or circumstances, and can also refer to singing. The lexicons indicate that it can imply both verbal responses and musical expression.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

[עוּן] vb. dwell

base

עָנָה 316 vb. answer, respond

Qal

answer, respond to sthg. said, actual or implied

respond to an occasion, speak in view of circumstances

money meets all demands

specif. respond as a witness, testify

less oft. make response as one accused (respondent)

Niph.

make answer

be answered

Hiph. wholly dub.; causes all things to respond in the joy of his heart

base

עָנָה vb. sing

Qal sing, utter tunefully

Pi. sing sweetly of it

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H6030a עוּן dwell H6030b עָנָה answer, respond .. answer, respond to sthg. said, actual or implied

. . respond to an occasion, speak in view of circumstances

. money meets all demands

. . specif. respond as a witness, testify

. less oft. make response as one accused (respondent)

. . make answer

. be answered

. wholly dub.; causes all things to respond in the joy of his heart

H6030c עָנָה sing

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

6030 `anah aw-naw'

a primitive root; properly, to eye or (generally) to heed,

i.e. pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extens. to

begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout, testify,

announce:--give account, afflict (by mistake for 6031),

(cause to, give) answer, bring low (by mistake for 6031), cry,

hear, Leannoth, lift up, say, X scholar, (give a) shout, sing

(together by course), speak, testify, utter, (bear) witness.

See also 1042, 1043.

see HEBREW for 06031

see HEBREW for 06031

see HEBREW for 01042

see HEBREW for 01043

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עוּן (un) — to dwell.

(Qal) to dwell

עָנָה (a.nah) — to answer.

1) to answer, respond, testify, speak, shout

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to answer, respond to

1a2) to testify, respond as a witness

1b) (Niphal)

1b1) to make answer

1b2) to be answered, receive answer

Aramaic equivalent: a.nah (עֲנָה "to answer" H6032)

עָנָה (a.nah) — to sing.

(Qal) to sing, utter tunefully

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HVqv2ms/Sp1bs — Verb qal imperative second person masculine singular · suffix
HVqv2ms/Sp1bs
answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
יְ֭הוָהYah.weh O Yahweh H3068 Noun proper
6,528× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
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.
Tyndale gloss
The Lord
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) is the proper name of the God of Israel, often rendered as Jehovah or the Lord. It signifies the self-existent or eternal nature of God. The name is closely associated with the revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:12-15 and is used in conjunction with other terms to denote sacred places. Some scholars suggest it derives from a root meaning 'to bring into being.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

יהוה c. 6823 i.e. יַהְוֶה n.pr.dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel—(1. MT יְהֹוָה 6518 (Qr אֲדֹנָי), or יֱהֹוִה 305 (Qr אֱלֹהִים) 2. Many recent scholars explain יַהְוֶה as Hiph. of הוה (= היה) the one bringing into being, life-giver)

יהוה is not used by E in Gn, but is given Ex 3:12-15 as the name of the God who revealed Himself to Moses at Horeb

יהוה is used with אלהים and suffixes, especially in D

the phrase † אֲנִי יהוה is noteworthy

יהוה is also used with several predicates, to form sacred names of holy places of Yahweh

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3068 יהוה i.e. יַהְוֶה n. pr. dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3068 Yhovah yeh-ho-vaw'

from 1961; (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish

national name of God:--Jehovah, the Lord. Compare 3050, 3069.

see HEBREW for 01961

see HEBREW for 03050

see HEBREW for 03069

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — LORD.

Jehovah = "the existing One"

1) the proper name of the one true God

1a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of a.do.na (אֲדֹנָי "Lord" H0136)

יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — The Lord.

Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — (Jerusalem of) the Lord.

Combined with ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HNpt — Noun proper
HNpt
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
כִּי־ki- for H3588 Particle
4,483× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Tyndale gloss
for
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

כִּי (ki) is a conjunction primarily meaning 'that,' 'for,' or 'when.' It indicates causal relationships and can express conditions like 'if' or 'though.' The word is versatile, appearing in various contexts to convey certainty, exception, or concession. Notably, it can combine with other particles to modify its meaning, such as in the phrase כִּי אם־ (ki im), meaning 'that if.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כִּי conj. that, for, when

that

Of time, when, of the past

elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

Because, since

base

כִּי אם־

each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:

that if

for if

(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—

limiting the prec. clause, except

the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

after an oath, surely

base

כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3588a כִּי that, for, when . that

. . Of time, when, of the past

. elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

. when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

. Because, since

H3588b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if

. for if

. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except

. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

. after an oath, surely

H3588c כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3588 kiy kee

a primitive particle (the full form of the prepositional

prefix) indicating causal relations of all kinds, antecedent

or consequent; (by implication) very widely used as a relative

conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by

other particles annexed:--and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch,

where-)as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else,

even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, +

nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then,

therefore, + (al- )though, + till, truly, + until, when,

whether, while, whom, yea, yet.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כִּי (ki) — for.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if

1f) but rather, but

1g) except that

1h) only, nevertheless

1i) surely

1j) that is

1k) but if

1l) for though

1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

כִּי [אם] (ki im) — that if: except.

1) except if

1a) but if

1b) even though

כִּי [עַל כֵּן] (ki [al ken]) — for as that: since.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HTc — Particle
HTc
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

for (ki (conjunction), le, from 'el (preposition), and various other words. In the New Testament also the words are various, chiefly gar, kai gar, hoti (conjunctions); anti apo eis dia (accusative), epi (dative and accusative), peri (genitive), pros (genitive and accusative), huper (genitive) (prepositions)): the English Revised Version and the American Standard Revised Version give in many cases more literal or more accurate renderings than those in the King James Version.

In the New Testament the most important preps. from a doctrinal point of view are anti, "face to face," "over against," "instead," "on behalf of," peri, "around," "about," "concerning," huper, "over," "on behalf of." The first has been claimed as stating the substitutionary nature of Christ's sacrifice as contrasted with huper and peri, more frequently used of it. But, although anti in the New Testament often means…

The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
ט֣וֹבTov [is] good H2896
538× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means good or welfare, describing something that is beneficial or pleasing, like a good deed or a happy time. It is used in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms. This word is often translated as 'good' or 'beautiful'.
Tyndale gloss
pleasant
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

טוֹב (tov) is a Hebrew word meaning good or pleasant, encompassing a wide range of meanings from agreeable to the senses to ethical goodness. It can function as an adjective, noun, or adverb, referring to things like welfare, happiness, and prosperity. The feminine form, טוֹבָה (tovah), specifically denotes welfare or good things.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

טוֹב adj. pleasant, agreeable, good

pleasant, agreeable to the senses

pleasant to the higher nature, giving pleasure, happiness, prosperity, and so agreeable, pleasing, well

good, excellent, of its kind

good, rich, valuable in estimation

good, appropriate, becoming

c. מִן compar. = better

of man's sensuous nature, glad, happy, prosperous

of man's intellectual nature, good understanding

good, kind, benign

good (ethical), right

base

טוֹב n.m. a good thing, benefit, welfare

welfare, prosperity, happiness

good things

good = benefit

moral good

base

טוֹבָה n.f. welfare, benefit, good things, good

welfare, prosperity, happiness

good things

bounty, good

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H2896a טוֹב pleasant, agreeable, good . pleasant, agreeable to the senses

. pleasant to the higher nature, giving pleasure, happiness, prosperity, and so agreeable, pleasing, well

. good, excellent, of its kind

. good, rich, valuable in estimation

. good, appropriate, becoming

. c. מִן compar. =better

. of man's sensuous nature, glad, happy, prosperous

. of man's intellectual nature, good understanding

. good, kind, benign

. good (ethical), right

H2896b טוֹב a good thing, benefit, welfare H2896c טוֹבָה welfare, benefit, good things, good

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

2896 towb tobe

from 2895; good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used

likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine,

the singular and the plural (good, a good or good thing, a

good man or woman; the good, goods or good things, good men or

women), also as an adverb (well):--beautiful, best, better,

bountiful, cheerful, at ease, X fair (word), (be in) favour,

fine, glad, good (deed, -lier, -liest, -ly, -ness, -s),

graciously, joyful, kindly, kindness, liketh (best), loving,

merry, X most, pleasant, + pleaseth, pleasure, precious,

prosperity, ready, sweet, wealth, welfare, (be) well

((-favoured)).

see HEBREW for 02895

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

טוֹב (tov) — pleasant.

adj

1) good, pleasant, agreeable

1a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses)

1b) pleasant (to the higher nature)

1c) good, excellent (of its kind)

1d) good, rich, valuable in estimation

1e) good, appropriate, becoming

1f) better (comparative)

1g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature)

1h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature)

1i) good, kind, benign

1j) good, right (ethical)

Aramaic equivalent: tav (טָב "fine" H2869)

טוֹב (tov) — good.

1) a good thing, benefit, welfare

1a) welfare, prosperity, happiness

1b) good things (collective)

1c) good, benefit

1d) moral good

טוֹבָה (to.vah) — welfare.

1) welfare, benefit, good things

1a) welfare, prosperity, happiness

1b) good things (collective)

1c) bounty

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HAamsa
HAamsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

good (Tobh, Tubh, yaTabh; agathos, agathon, kalos, kalon): In English "good" is used in various senses, most of which are represented in the Bible.

(1) In the Old Testament the commonest word is Tobh, occurring very frequently and translated in a great variety of ways. Of the different shades of meaning, which frequently run into each other, the following may be distinguished:

(a) Possessing desirable qualities, beneficial, agreeable, e.g. "good for food" (Ge 2:9); "We will do thee good" (Nu 10:29); Who will show us any good?" (Ps 4:6); "good tidings of good" (Isa 52:7).

answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
חַסְדֶּ֑ךָchas.De.kha covenant loyalty your H2617 Noun common masculine singular construct · suffix
247× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word refers to kindness, mercy, or pity, often used to describe God's loving actions towards humanity. It is translated as 'favour', 'kindness', or 'mercy' in the KJV. It emphasizes God's loving character.
Tyndale gloss
kindness
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

חֶ֫סֶד (che.sed) primarily means kindness or goodness, often referring to the kindness of people towards one another, especially towards the needy. It can also denote God's lovingkindness and mercy. Additionally, it has a secondary meaning of shame or reproach. The entries reflect a range of uses, from human interactions to divine attributes.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

חֶ֫סֶד 247 n.m. goodness, kindness

of man:

kindness of men toward men, in doing favours and benefits

kindness (especially as extended to the lowly, needy and miserable), mercy

(rarely) affection of Isr. to י׳, love to God, piety

lovely appearance

of God: kindness, lovingkindness in condescending to the needs of his creatures.

base

חֶ֫סֶד n.m. shame, reproach

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H2617a חֶ֫סֶד goodness, kindness . of man: . kindness of men toward men, in doing favours and benefits

. kindness (especially as extended to the lowly, needy and miserable), mercy

. (rarely) affection of Isr. to י׳, love to God, piety

. lovely appearance

. of God: kindness, lovingkindness in condescending to the needs of his creatures.

H2617b חֶ֫סֶד shame, reproach

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

2617 checed kheh'-sed

from 2616; kindness; by implication (towards God) piety:

rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty:--favour,

good deed(-liness, -ness), kindly, (loving-)kindness, merciful

(kindness), mercy, pity, reproach, wicked thing.

see HEBREW for 02616

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

חֶ֫סֶד (che.sed) — kindness.

goodness, kindness, faithfulness

חֶ֫סֶד (che.sed) — shame.

a reproach, shame

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HNcmsc/Sp2ms — Noun common masculine singular construct · suffix
HNcmsc/Sp2ms
answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
כְּרֹ֥בke.Ro according to [the] greatness of H7230 Preposition · noun common masculine singular construct
149× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Describes abundance or greatness in the Bible, used to talk about God's power and creation in Psalms and Isaiah.
Tyndale gloss
abundance
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

רֹב (rov) refers to a multitude or abundance, encompassing ideas of greatness and numerousness. It is derived from a related root and can describe anything from a large quantity to excellence. The entries consistently highlight its use in various contexts, emphasizing its broad application in the Old Testament.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

רֹב 151 n.m. multitude, abundance, greatness

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7230 רֹב multitude, abundance, greatness

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7230 rob robe

from 7231; abundance (in any respect):--abundance(- antly),

all, X common (sort), excellent, great(-ly, -ness, number),

huge, be increased, long, many, more in number, most, much,

multitude, plenty(-ifully), X very (age).

see HEBREW for 07231

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

רֹב (rov) — abundance.

1) multitude, abundance, greatness

1a) multitude

1a1) abundance, abundantly

1a2) numerous

1b) greatness

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HR/Ncmsc — Preposition · noun common masculine singular construct
HR/Ncmsc
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

ov:

(1) In Anglo-Saxon, had the meaning "from," "away from" (as the strengthened form "off" has still), and was not used for genitive or possessive relations, these being expressed by special case-forms. In the Norman period, however, "of" was taken to represent the French de (a use well developed by the time of Chaucer), and in the Elizabethan period both senses of "of" were in common use. But after about 1600 the later force of the word became predominant, and in the earlier sense (which is now practically obsolete) it was replaced by other prepositions. In consequence the King James Version (and in some cases the Revised Version (British and American)) contains many uses of "of" that are no longer familiar--most of them, to be sure, causing no difficulty, but there still being a few responsible for real obscurities.

English usagewhat the translators’ English meant
Webster's Dictionary (1828), Webster's Unabridged (1913), Webster's Dictionary (1806)

OF, preposition ov. [Gr.]

1. From or out of; proceeding from, as the cause, source, means, author or agent bestowing.

I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered to you. 1 Corinthians 11:1.

For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts. Joshua 11:1.

It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.

Lamentations 3:1.

The whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Proverbs 16:1.

Go, inquire of the Lord for me. 2 Chronicles 34:2.

That holy thing that shall be born of thee. Luke 1:1.

Hence of is the sign of the genitive case, the case that denotes production; as the son of man, the son proceeding from man, produced from man. This is the primary sense, although we now say, produced by man. 'Part of these were slain; ' that is, a number separate, for part denotes a division; the sense then is, a number from or out of the whole were slain. So also, 'some of these were slain; ' that is…

answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
רַ֝חֲמֶ֗יךָra.cha.Mei.kha compassion your H7356 Noun common masculine plural construct · suffix
45× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word refers to compassion or tender love, often describing God's feelings towards people. It can also mean the womb, symbolizing care and nurturing. The KJV translates it as compassion, mercy, or pity.
Tyndale gloss
womb
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

רַחַם (racham) primarily means 'womb' and is associated with the idea of nurturing. It also refers to 'compassion' in its plural form, רַחֲמִים (rachamim), indicating a deep, tender love or mercy. The word is built from a root that conveys a sense of cherishing, often linked to the maternal aspect of compassion.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

רֶ֫חֶם, רַ֫חַם n.m. womb

base

רַחֲמִים n.m. abs. pl. intens. compassion

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7356a רֶ֫חֶם, רַ֫חַם womb H7356b רַחֲמִים abs. pl. intens. compassion

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7356 racham rakh'-am

from 7355; compassion (in the plural); by extension, the womb

(as cherishing the fetus); by implication, a maiden:--

bowels, compassion, damsel, tender love, (great, tender)

mercy, pity, womb.

see HEBREW for 07355

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

רַחַם (ra.cham) — womb.

womb

Another spelling of re.chem (רֶ֫חֶם "womb" H7358)

רַחֲמִים (ra.cha.mim) — compassion.

compassion

Aramaic equivalent: re.chem (רַחֲמִין "compassion" H7359)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HNcmpc/Sp2ms — Noun common masculine plural construct · suffix
HNcmpc/Sp2ms
answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
פְּנֵ֣הpe.Neh turn H6437 Verb · Qal · imperative second person masculine singular
135× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means to turn or face something, like looking at a corner or a gate. It appears in descriptions of daily life and interactions, like in Genesis and Psalms. It's about changing direction or focus.
Tyndale gloss
Corner (Gate)
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

פָּנָה (panah) is a Hebrew verb meaning to turn, with various implications such as turning toward, away, or doing something. It can refer to both physical and figurative actions, like looking or regarding something. The entries indicate it can also mean to decline or approach, and it has different forms, including Qal, Piel, and Hiphil, each with specific nuances.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

פָּנָה 135 vb. turn

Qal 117

turn toward

turn from

turn and do a thing

turn, decline

turn toward, approach

turn and look, look

of inanimate things, face

esp. fig. look at, regard

look for = expect

fig. look at = consider

Hiph.

turn

make a turn, shew (signs of) turning

Hoph. be ye turned back!

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H6437 פָּנָה turn .. . turn toward

. turn from

. turn and do a thing

. turn, decline

. turn toward, approach

. . turn and look, look

. of inanimate things, face

. esp. fig. look at, regard

. look for = expect

. fig. look at = consider

. . turn

. make a turn, shew (signs of) turning

. be ye turned back!

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

6437 panah paw-naw'

a primitive root; to turn; by implication, to face, i.e.

appear, look, etc.:--appear, at (even-)tide, behold, cast

out, come on, X corner, dawning, empty, go away, lie, look,

mark, pass away, prepare, regard, (have) respect (to),

(re-)turn (aside, away, back, face, self), X right (early).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

פָּנָה (pa.nah) — to turn.

1) to turn

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to turn toward or from or away

1a2) to turn and do

1a3) to turn, decline (of day)

1a4) to turn toward, approach (of evening)

1a5) to turn and look, look, look back or at or after or for

1b) (Piel) to turn away, put out of the way, make clear, clear away

1c) (Hiphil)

1c1) to turn

1c2) to make a turn, show signs of turning, turn back

1d) (Hophal) to be turned back

פָּנָה (pa.nah) — Corner (Gate).

This name means corner, to turn, to turn back

Another spelling of pin.nah (פִּנָּה "Corner( Gate)" H6438)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HVqv2ms — Verb · Qal · imperative second person masculine singular
HVqv2ms
answer me O Yahweh for [is] good covenant loyalty your according to [the] greatness of compassion your turn to me
אֵלָֽי׃'e.Lai to me H413 Preposition · suffix
5,518× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
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'.
Tyndale gloss
to(wards)
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word אֶל (el) is primarily a preposition indicating motion towards or direction to a person or place. It can also imply entering a limit, presence at a location, or a hostile direction (against). Additionally, it may express concepts such as concerning, in addition to, or according to. The entries highlight its versatility in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph),

prep. denoting motion to or direction towards (whether physical or mental).of motion to or unto a person or place

Where the limit is actually entered, into

Of direction towards anything

Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

Of rule or standard according to (rare)

Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H413 אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph), . of motion to or unto a person or place

. Where the limit is actually entered, into

. Of direction towards anything

. Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

. Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

. Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

. Of rule or standard according to (rare)

. Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

. Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

413 'el ale

(but only used in the shortened constructive form sel {el});

a primitive particle; properly, denoting motion towards, but

occasionally used of a quiescent position, i.e. near, with or

among; often in general, to:--about, according to ,after,

against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and,

by, concerning, for, from, X hath, in(- to), near, (out) of,

over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether,

with(-in).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֶל (el) — to(wards).

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)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HR/Sp1bs — Preposition · suffix
HR/Sp1bs
Sources on this page. Lexicons and dictionaries imported from the CrossWire SWORD modules — Abbott-Smith, Strong's, Dodson, the Intermediate Liddell-Scott-Jones, Robinson and Packard, Webster and Cawdrey. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Harper, 1889 — Grimm’s Wilke’s Clavis Novi Testamenti, translated, revised and enlarged by Joseph Henry Thayer) is public domain and is set here from the Internet Archive page scan greekenglishlex00grim; it is uncorrected OCR, marked as such on the entry itself, and the Strong’s numbers — which Thayer’s own edition does not carry — were matched by lemma against the other modules on this page. Trench’s Synonyms of the New Testament (Macmillan, 1880) and Moulton and Milligan’s Vocabulary of the Greek Testament (Hodder & Stoughton, 1930, which entered the United States public domain on 1 January 2026) are set from Internet Archive page scans synonymsofnewtes00treniala and vocabularyofgree00mouluoft, and are likewise uncorrected OCR matched to Strong’s numbers by lemma. Trench treats a group of words at once, so the same essay stands on the page of each word it compares. The Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary is © 1993 and is used here by permission for non-commercial use, www.teknia.com/greek-dictionary. The full Liddell-Scott-Jones and the Hebrew word data (TAHOT) come from STEPBible.org, CC BY 4.0. Brown-Driver-Briggs is the OpenScriptures digitisation, public domain. Syntax analysis is the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (biblicalhumanities.org); the concordance and morphology are built from the tagged Nestle 1904 text. Septuagint occurrences use the Open Scriptures Septuagint lemma index, derived from CCAT (University of Pennsylvania) and the Rahlfs 1935 dataset by Eliran Wong, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — used here on a non-commercial ministry site. Greek of Josephus and Barnabas from the Perseus Digital Library, CC BY-SA 4.0. Commentaries and the Ante-Nicene Fathers are public-domain texts hosted on this site. Everyday Greek from the Duke Databank of Documentary Papyri, CC BY 3.0, with dates and provenance from the Heidelberger Gesamtverzeichnis. Philo and the Apostolic Fathers from Open Greek and Latin (First1KGreek), CC BY-SA 4.0. The apparatus and the fifth Greek column are the SBL Greek New Testament, © 2010 SBL and Logos Bible Software, CC BY 4.0. The Latin is the Clementine Vulgate (public domain); the Syriac New Testament is the ETCBC edition (MIT licence). The Hebrew behind the Greek is computed here from the Septuagint index and TAHOT, not taken from any aligned edition. The translation spread and the per-word edition marks come from the Translators Amalgamated Greek NT (STEPBible, CC BY 4.0); clause roles from the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (CC BY-SA 4.0); place identifications and their confidence from OpenBible.info Bible Geocoding (CC BY 4.0), with map tiles © OpenStreetMap contributors. Gospel parallels are computed here from shared uncommon vocabulary, not taken from any printed harmony. Cross references are the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge and the subject headings are Nave’s Topical Bible, both public domain. Works under Creative Commons licences are used unchanged apart from markup removal.

Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.

Donate