Psalm 143:6

ESV I stretch out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land. Selah

NIV I spread out my hands to you; I thirst for you like a parched land.

NASB I spread out my hands to You; My soul longs for You, like a weary land. Selah

CSB I spread out my hands to you; I am like parched land before you. Selah

NLT I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Interlude

KJV I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah.

NKJV I spread out my hands to You; My soul longs for You like a thirsty land. Selah

What does Psalm 143:6 mean?

Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 143; verse-level content coming soon!

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Context Summary
Psalm 143:1–6 records David's prayer for mercy. This appeals to God's faithfulness, since David knows he is imperfect and sinful (Romans 3:10; Psalm 51:4–5). Enemies have driven him into a state of anxiety. Yet he remembers what the Lord has already done for him (1 Samuel 17:37; 19:10). Based on that history, David eagerly seeks God in prayer (Psalm 63:1).

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Chapter Summary
David begins by appealing to God's goodness and loyal love. He acknowledges his own imperfections. He prays to be saved from the threat of violent enemies. These opponents overwhelm David, driving him into a dark, weak feeling. Yet David is encouraged to look back on all the times the Lord has provided rescue. David ties this anticipated salvation to his intent to praise and worship God as their mutual enemies are defeated.

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