Psalm 147:3 Commentary
In-depth Psalm 147:3 commentary covering historical setting, original Greek/Hebrew, theology, and pastoral application.
"He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds."
— Psalm 147:3 (KJV)
Exposition
The psalmist describes God as a tender healer who mends broken hearts and bandages emotional wounds. His healing is personal and compassionate.
Historical Setting
This psalm was likely written after the Babylonian exile, celebrating Jerusalem's restoration around 516 BC. The returned exiles carried deep emotional wounds from decades of displacement, slavery, and loss. The psalmist declares that the same God who counts and names the stars (v. 4) personally tends to each broken heart.
Original Language Notes
'Rapha' means to heal, cure, or make whole. It's the root of 'Jehovah-Rapha' (The Lord who heals, Exodus 15:26). Combined with 'chabash' (to bind up, bandage), it portrays God as a physician who tenderly treats wounds—not with distant authority but with personal, hands-on care.
Pastoral Application
God doesn't ignore your pain. He actively heals broken hearts and binds wounds. Bring your hurts to Him; He is the great Physician of the soul.
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