What Does Psalm 42:11 Mean?
Psalm 42:11 meaning explained verse-by-verse: "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet pr..." Original language, context & application.
"Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God."
— Psalm 42:11 (KJV)
The Plain Meaning
The psalmist speaks to his own soul in the midst of despair, commanding himself to hope in God. Even in darkness, he anticipates future praise.
Word Study
'Tishtochachi' means to be bowed down, depressed, or cast down. It describes the soul sinking under weight. The psalmist addresses his soul directly ('Why are you bowed down?'), practicing self-counsel—speaking truth to his emotions rather than letting emotions dictate truth.
Living It Out
When depression weighs heavily, preach truth to your soul. Remind yourself of God's character and choose to hope, even when feelings don't follow yet.
Download the Complete KJV Bible — Free PDF
All 66 books, 1,189 chapters — printable and ready to read offline.