The Bible — World English Bible
Psalm 131
In brief
Psalm 131 is one of the shortest in the Bible: three verses. A song of ascents credited to David, it was sung by pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. David gives up pride and ambitions too great for him. He describes a concrete peace, that of a weaned child resting calmly with its mother. The psalm ends with an invitation to all Israel: to put their hope in the LORD, now and forever. It is a prayer of humility and rest.
The chapter in 3 parts
1Yahweh, my heart isn’t arrogant, nor my eyes lofty; nor do I concern myself with great matters, or things too wonderful for me.
2Surely I have stilled and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.
3Israel, hope in Yahweh, from this time forward and forever more.
Key verses
Yahweh, my heart isn’t arrogant, nor my eyes lofty; nor do I concern myself with great matters, or things too wonderful for me.
David gives up pride and excessive ambitions. Accepting our limits is the beginning of peace.
Surely I have stilled and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.
A weaned child no longer cries to get something: it is simply with its mother. The picture describes a trust that no longer needs to control everything.
Israel, hope in Yahweh, from this time forward and forever more.
What he has found, David offers to all the people: to put their hope in the LORD, for today and for ever.
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Frequently asked questions about Psalm 131
What does Psalm 131 mean?
Psalm 131 describes a humility that brings peace. David states that he does not pursue things too great for him, and that his soul is calm like a weaned child with its mother. He then invites Israel to put their hope in the LORD.
What does it mean to be like a weaned child?
A weaned child no longer has to demand milk: it stays quietly with its mother. The picture suggests that we can love God for himself, and not only for what he gives. It is a trust that no longer insists on understanding everything or getting everything.
How can I pray with Psalm 131?
Read it slowly, in silence or in a low voice. At verse 1, lay before God the ambitions and worries that stir you up. At verse 2, stay a few minutes in calm beside him, asking for nothing. Finish with verse 3 by choosing to put your hope in him.
Articles quoting Psalm 131
World English Bible translation — public domain.