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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 142:1 I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift my voice to the LORD for mercy.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/142-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/19_Psa_142_001.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 142:1 - I Lift My Voice to the LORD" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift my voice to the LORD for mercy." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/142-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/142-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/142.htm">Chapter 142</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/141-10.htm" title="Psalm 141:10">◄</a> Psalm 142:1 <a href="/psalms/142-2.htm" title="Psalm 142:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/psalms/142.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/psalms/142.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />A maskil of David. When he was in the cave. A prayer. I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift up my voice to the LORD for mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/psalms/142.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />I cry out to the LORD; I plead for the LORD’s mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/142.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />With my voice I cry out to the LORD; with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/142.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer. I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift my voice to the LORD for mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/142.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Maschil of David; A Prayer when he was in the cave. I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/142.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />A Contemplation of David. A Prayer when he was in the cave. I cry out to the LORD with my voice; With my voice to the LORD I make my supplication.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/142.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer. I cry out with my voice to the LORD; With my voice I implore the LORD for compassion.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/142.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer. I cry aloud with my voice to the LORD; I make supplication with my voice to the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/142.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />I Cry aloud with my voice to the LORD; I make supplication with my voice to the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/142.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />A Maskil of David. When he was in the cave. A Prayer. With my voice to Yahweh, I cry aloud; With my voice to Yahweh, I make supplication.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/142.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />A skillful song, <i>or</i> a didactic <i>or</i> reflective poem, of David; when he was in the cave. A Prayer. I cry aloud with my voice to the LORD; I make supplication with my voice to the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/142.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Maskil of David. When he was in the cave. † A prayer. I cry aloud to the LORD; I plead aloud to the LORD for mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/142.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Davidic Maskil. When he was in the cave. A prayer. I cry aloud to the LORD; I plead aloud to the LORD for mercy. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/142.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Maschil of David, when he was in the cave; a Prayer. I cry with my voice unto Jehovah; With my voice unto Jehovah do I make supplication.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/142.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />I pray to you, LORD. I beg for mercy. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/142.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Maschil of David, when he was in the cave; a Prayer. I cry with my voice unto the LORD; with my voice unto the LORD do I make supplication.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/142.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />[A [maskil] by David when he was in the cave; a prayer.] Loudly, I cry to the LORD. Loudly, I plead with the LORD for mercy. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/142.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />I call to the LORD for help; I plead with him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/142.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />My voice cries out to the LORD; my voice pleads for mercy to the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/142.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer. I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift my voice to the LORD for mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/142.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />A well-written song by David, when he was in the cave; a prayer. To the LORD I cry out; to the LORD I plead for mercy. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/142.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />[A contemplation by David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer.] I cry with my voice to the LORD. With my voice, I ask the LORD for mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/142.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Maschil of David; a prayer when he was in the cave. I cried to the LORD with my voice; with my voice to the LORD I made my supplication.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/142.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />A contemplation by David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer. I cry with my voice to Yahweh. With my voice, I ask Yahweh for mercy. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/142.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />AN INSTRUCTION OF DAVID. A PRAYER WHEN HE IS IN THE CAVE. My voice [is] to YHWH, I cry, "" My voice [is] to YHWH, I beg [for] grace.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/142.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> An Instruction of David, a Prayer when he is in the cave. My voice is unto Jehovah, I cry, My voice is unto Jehovah, I entreat grace.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/142.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Of the understanding to David; a prayer in his being in the cave. With my voice I will cry to Jehovah; with my voice I will entreat to Jehovah.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/142.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Of understanding for David. A prayer when he was in the cave. [1 Kings 24]. I cried to the Lord with my voice: with my voice I made supplication to the Lord. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/142.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 141:1>The understanding of David. A prayer, when he was in the cave. <V 141:2>With my voice, I cried out to the Lord. With my voice, I made supplication to the Lord.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/142.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />A <i>maskil</i> of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer. [2] With my own voice I cry to the LORD; with my own voice I beseech the LORD. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/142.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />With my voice I cry to the LORD; with my voice I make supplication to the LORD.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/142.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />I CRIED to the LORD with voice; my with my voice to the LORD did I make my supplication.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/142.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />With my voice to LORD JEHOVAH I cried; with my voice to LORD JEHOVAH I made supplication.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/142.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Maschil of David, when he was in the cave; a Prayer. With my voice I cry unto the LORD; With my voice I make supplication unto the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/142.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br /><i>A Psalm</i> of instruction for David, when he was in the cave, - a Prayer. I cried to the Lord with my voice; with my voice I made supplication to the Lord.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/142-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=17589" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/psalms/142.htm">I Lift My Voice to the LORD</a></span><br> <span class="reftext">1</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/4905.htm" title="4905: maś·kîl (N-ms) -- Instructive, a didactic poem. From sakal; instructive, i.e. A didactic poem.">A Maskil</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: lə·ḏā·wiḏ (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">of David,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: bih·yō·w·ṯōw (Prep-b:: V-Qal-Inf:: 3ms) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">when he was</a> <a href="/hebrew/4631.htm" title="4631: ḇam·mə·‘ā·rāh (Prep-b, Art:: N-fs) -- A cave. From uwr; a cavern.">in the cave.</a> <a href="/hebrew/8605.htm" title="8605: ṯə·p̄il·lāh (N-fs) -- Prayer. From palal; intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn.">A prayer.</a> <a href="/hebrew/2199.htm" title="2199: ’ez·‘āq (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- To cry, cry out, call. A primitive root; to shriek; by analogy, to announce or convene publicly."> I cry</a> <a href="/hebrew/6963.htm" title="6963: qō·w·lî (N-msc:: 1cs) -- Sound, voice. Or qol; from an unused root meaning to call aloud; a voice or sound.">aloud</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD;</a> <a href="/hebrew/6963.htm" title="6963: qō·w·lî (N-msc:: 1cs) -- Sound, voice. Or qol; from an unused root meaning to call aloud; a voice or sound.">I lift my voice</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/2603.htm" title="2603: ’eṯ·ḥan·nān (V-Hitpael-Imperf-1cs) -- A primitive root; properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore.">for mercy.</a> </span><span class="reftext">2</span>I pour out my complaint before Him; I reveal my trouble to Him.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/18-6.htm">Psalm 18:6</a></span><br />In my distress I called upon the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry for His help reached His ears.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/34-17.htm">Psalm 34:17</a></span><br />The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/77-1.htm">Psalm 77:1</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. According to Jeduthun. A Psalm of Asaph. I cried out to God; I cried aloud to God to hear me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/3-4.htm">Psalm 3:4</a></span><br />To the LORD I cry aloud, and He answers me from His holy mountain. Selah<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/61-1.htm">Psalm 61:1</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. With stringed instruments. Of David. Hear my cry, O God; attend to my prayer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/116-1.htm">Psalm 116:1-2</a></span><br />I love the LORD, for He has heard my voice—my appeal for mercy. / Because He has inclined His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/130-1.htm">Psalm 130:1-2</a></span><br />A song of ascents. Out of the depths I cry to You, O LORD! / O Lord, hear my voice; let Your ears be attentive to my plea for mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/55-17.htm">Psalm 55:17</a></span><br />Morning, noon, and night, I cry out in distress, and He hears my voice.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/28-2.htm">Psalm 28:2</a></span><br />Hear my cry for mercy when I call to You for help, when I lift up my hands toward Your holy sanctuary.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/31-22.htm">Psalm 31:22</a></span><br />In my alarm I said, “I am cut off from Your sight!” But You heard my plea for mercy when I called to You for help.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/57-1.htm">Psalm 57:1-2</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A Miktam of David, when he fled from Saul into the cave. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy, for in You my soul takes refuge. In the shadow of Your wings I will take shelter until the danger has passed. / I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/88-1.htm">Psalm 88:1-2</a></span><br />A song. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. For the choirmaster. According to Mahalath Leannoth. A Maskil of Heman the Ezrahite. O LORD, the God of my salvation, day and night I cry out before You. / May my prayer come before You; incline Your ear to my cry.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jonah/2-2.htm">Jonah 2:2</a></span><br />saying: “In my distress I called to the LORD, and He answered me. From the belly of Sheol I called for help, and You heard my voice.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/lamentations/3-55.htm">Lamentations 3:55-56</a></span><br />I called on Your name, O LORD, out of the depths of the Pit. / You heard my plea: “Do not ignore my cry for relief.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/1-10.htm">1 Samuel 1:10</a></span><br />In her bitter distress, Hannah prayed to the LORD and wept with many tears.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">I cried to the LORD with my voice; with my voice to the LORD did I make my supplication.</p><p class="hdg">A.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/32-1.htm">Psalm 32:1</a></b></br> <i>A Psalm</i> of David, Maschil. Blessed <i>is he whose</i> transgression <i>is</i> forgiven, <i>whose</i> sin <i>is</i> covered.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/54-1.htm">Psalm 54:1</a></b></br> To the chief Musician on Neginoth, Maschil, <i>A Psalm</i> of David, when the Ziphims came and said to Saul, Doth not David hide himself with us? Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/57-1.htm">Psalm 57:1</a></b></br> To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave. Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until <i>these</i> calamities be overpast.</p><p class="hdg">A Prayer.</p><p class="hdg">when he was</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/22-1.htm">2 Samuel 22:1,2</a></b></br> And David spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day <i>that</i> the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul: … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/24-3.htm">2 Samuel 24:3</a></b></br> And Joab said unto the king, Now the LORD thy God add unto the people, how many soever they be, an hundredfold, and that the eyes of my lord the king may see <i>it</i>: but why doth my lord the king delight in this thing?</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/hebrews/11-38.htm">Hebrews 11:38</a></b></br> (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and <i>in</i> mountains, and <i>in</i> dens and caves of the earth.</p><p class="hdg">with my voice</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/28-2.htm">Psalm 28:2</a></b></br> Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/77-1.htm">Psalm 77:1,2</a></b></br> To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of Asaph. I cried unto God with my voice, <i>even</i> unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/141-1.htm">Psalm 141:1</a></b></br> A Psalm of David. LORD, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto thee.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/132-16.htm">Aloud</a> <a href="/psalms/141-10.htm">Cave</a> <a href="/psalms/89-1.htm">Contemplation</a> <a href="/psalms/138-3.htm">Cried</a> <a href="/psalms/141-1.htm">Cry</a> <a href="/psalms/141-10.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/119-58.htm">Entreat</a> <a href="/psalms/116-5.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/psalms/94-13.htm">Hole</a> <a href="/psalms/139-20.htm">Lift</a> <a href="/psalms/141-10.htm">Maschil</a> <a href="/psalms/89-1.htm">Maskil</a> <a href="/psalms/140-6.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/psalms/141-10.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/psalms/119-80.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/psalms/130-2.htm">Supplication</a> <a href="/psalms/141-1.htm">Voice</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/145-7.htm">Aloud</a> <a href="/nahum/2-11.htm">Cave</a> <a href="/psalms/42-1.htm">Contemplation</a> <a href="/psalms/142-5.htm">Cried</a> <a href="/psalms/142-5.htm">Cry</a> <a href="/psalms/142-7.htm">David</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-6.htm">Entreat</a> <a href="/psalms/143-1.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-14.htm">Hole</a> <a href="/psalms/143-8.htm">Lift</a> <a href="/psalms/31-24.htm">Maschil</a> <a href="/psalms/32-1.htm">Maskil</a> <a href="/psalms/143-1.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/psalms/143-1.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/psalms/150-3.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/isaiah/45-14.htm">Supplication</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-20.htm">Voice</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 142</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/142-1.htm">David shows that in his trouble all his comfort was in prayer unto God</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/142.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/142.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>A Maskil of David, when he was in the cave.</b><br>This phrase indicates that the psalm is a "Maskil," a term suggesting a contemplative or instructive poem. David, the attributed author, composed this psalm during a time of distress, specifically when he was hiding in a cave. This likely refers to one of two instances: either when David fled from King Saul and hid in the cave of Adullam (<a href="/1_samuel/22.htm">1 Samuel 22:1</a>) or when he was in the cave at En Gedi (<a href="/1_samuel/24-3.htm">1 Samuel 24:3</a>). The caves in these regions provided natural fortresses and were common hiding places. David's experience in the cave symbolizes a period of isolation and vulnerability, yet also a time of deep reliance on God. The historical context of David's life, as a fugitive and future king, underscores the themes of trust and divine deliverance.<p><b>A prayer.</b><br>This designation highlights the psalm's primary function as a prayer, a direct communication with God. In the biblical tradition, prayer is a vital expression of faith and dependence on God. David's prayers often reflect his personal struggles and his unwavering trust in God's provision and protection. The psalm serves as a model for believers, illustrating how to approach God in times of trouble.<p><b>I cry aloud to the LORD;</b><br>David's act of crying aloud signifies an urgent and earnest plea. In the Hebrew tradition, vocalizing prayers was common, reflecting sincerity and intensity. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) emphasizes the covenantal relationship between God and His people. David's cry is not just a call for help but an invocation of God's faithfulness and promises.<p><b>I lift my voice to the LORD for mercy.</b><br>Lifting one's voice indicates a deliberate and conscious act of seeking God's attention. The plea for "mercy" underscores David's recognition of his need for God's compassion and grace. Mercy, in the biblical sense, involves God's loving-kindness and willingness to forgive and aid those in distress. This phrase connects to other scriptures where God's mercy is a central theme, such as in <a href="/lamentations/3-22.htm">Lamentations 3:22-23</a> and <a href="/ephesians/2-4.htm">Ephesians 2:4-5</a>. David's appeal for mercy foreshadows the ultimate expression of divine mercy through Jesus Christ, who embodies God's grace and redemption for humanity.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a></b><br>The author of this psalm, traditionally believed to be King David, who often found himself in distressing situations, seeking God's help.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_cave.htm">The Cave</a></b><br>This psalm is often associated with David's time hiding in a cave, possibly the Cave of Adullam, as he fled from King Saul.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD (Yahweh)</a></b><br>The covenant name of God, to whom David directs his cries for help and mercy.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_vocal_prayer.htm">The Power of Vocal Prayer</a></b><br>David's example shows the importance of vocalizing our prayers, which can help us articulate our needs and emotions before God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seeking_god's_mercy.htm">Seeking God's Mercy</a></b><br>In times of distress, like David, we should seek God's mercy, acknowledging our dependence on His grace and compassion.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_our_refuge.htm">God as Our Refuge</a></b><br>David's cry from the cave reminds us that God is our ultimate refuge, even when we feel trapped or isolated.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/h/honesty_in_prayer.htm">Honesty in Prayer</a></b><br>David's raw and honest plea encourages us to be transparent with God about our struggles and fears.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/faith_in_god's_response.htm">Faith in God's Response</a></b><br>Despite his dire circumstances, David's cry reflects a faith that God hears and will respond to his plea for mercy.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_142.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 142</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/evidence_for_david's_cave_prayer.htm">Psalm 142:1 labels this a prayer of David in a cave—where is the historical or archaeological evidence supporting this cave event? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_psalm_142_4_align_with_1_sam_22_2.htm">Psalm 142:4 shows David claiming no one cares for him—how does this reconcile with 1 Samuel 22:2, where he has loyal followers? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_psalm_142_7_address_unresolved_pleas.htm">Psalm 142:7 promises praise once delivered—how does such certainty stand against the reality of suffering believers whose pleas remain unresolved?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_does_psalm_58_6_invoke_violence.htm">Why does David, in Psalm 58, invoke violent divine judgment (verse 6) when other passages emphasize mercy?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/142.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(1) <span class= "bld">I cried . . .</span>--See <a href="/psalms/3-4.htm" title="I cried to the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.">Psalm 3:4</a>, &c.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/142.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 1.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">I cried unto the Lord with my voice; with my voice unto the Lord did I make my supplication</span>. "With my voice" means aloud, and therefore earnestly and pressingly (comp. <a href="/psalms/3-4.htm">Psalm 3:4</a>; <a href="/psalms/27-7.htm">Psalm 27:7</a>; <a href="/psalms/64-1.htm">Psalm 64:1</a>; <a href="/psalms/77-1.htm">Psalm 77:1</a>; <a href="/psalms/130-1.htm">Psalm 130:1, 2</a>, etc.). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/142-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">A Maskil</span><br /><span class="heb">מַשְׂכִּ֥יל</span> <span class="translit">(maś·kîl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4905.htm">Strong's 4905: </a> </span><span class="str2">Instructive, a didactic poem</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of David,</span><br /><span class="heb">לְדָוִ֑ד</span> <span class="translit">(lə·ḏā·wiḏ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> </span><span class="str2">David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse</span><br /><br /><span class="word">when he was</span><br /><span class="heb">בִּהְיוֹת֖וֹ</span> <span class="translit">(bih·yō·w·ṯōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fall out, come to pass, become, be</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in the cave.</span><br /><span class="heb">בַמְּעָרָ֣ה</span> <span class="translit">(ḇam·mə·‘ā·rāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b, Article | Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4631.htm">Strong's 4631: </a> </span><span class="str2">A cavern</span><br /><br /><span class="word">A prayer.</span><br /><span class="heb">תְפִלָּֽה׃</span> <span class="translit">(ṯə·p̄il·lāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8605.htm">Strong's 8605: </a> </span><span class="str2">Intercession, supplication, a hymn</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I cry</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶזְעָ֑ק</span> <span class="translit">(’ez·‘āq)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2199.htm">Strong's 2199: </a> </span><span class="str2">To shriek, to announce, convene publicly</span><br /><br /><span class="word">aloud</span><br /><span class="heb">ק֭וֹלִי</span> <span class="translit">(qō·w·lî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6963.htm">Strong's 6963: </a> </span><span class="str2">A voice, sound</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶל־</span> <span class="translit">(’el-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> </span><span class="str2">Near, with, among, to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the LORD;</span><br /><span class="heb">יְהוָ֣ה</span> <span class="translit">(Yah·weh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> </span><span class="str2">LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I lift my voice</span><br /><span class="heb">ק֝וֹלִ֗י</span> <span class="translit">(qō·w·lî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6963.htm">Strong's 6963: </a> </span><span class="str2">A voice, sound</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶל־</span> <span class="translit">(’el-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> </span><span class="str2">Near, with, among, to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the LORD</span><br /><span class="heb">יְהוָ֥ה</span> <span class="translit">(Yah·weh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> </span><span class="str2">LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for mercy.</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶתְחַנָּֽן׃</span> <span class="translit">(’eṯ·ḥan·nān)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hitpael - Imperfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2603.htm">Strong's 2603: </a> </span><span class="str2">To bend, stoop in kindness to an inferior, to favor, bestow, to implore</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/142-1.htm">Psalm 142:1 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/142-1.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 142:1 A contemplation by David when he was (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/141-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 141:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 141:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/142-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 142:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 142:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>