to hear a prisoner's groaning, to release those condemned to death, to hear the groans of the prisonersThis phrase begins with the divine action "to hear," which in Hebrew is "לִשְׁמֹעַ" (lishmoa). This word conveys not just the act of hearing but implies an attentive listening, a readiness to respond. In the context of the psalm, it reflects God's compassionate nature and His willingness to engage with human suffering. The "groans" (Hebrew: "אֶנְקַת" - enqat) are not mere sounds but deep expressions of distress and pain, often associated with the cries of those in dire situations. The "prisoners" (Hebrew: "אָסִיר" - asir) can be understood both literally and metaphorically, representing those who are physically captive as well as those bound by spiritual or emotional chains. Historically, this could refer to the Israelites in Babylonian captivity, but it also speaks to the universal human condition of being trapped by sin and suffering. The phrase assures believers that God is not distant; He is intimately aware of and responsive to the cries of those who are oppressed. to release those condemned to death Persons / Places / Events 1. The PsalmistThe author of Psalm 102, traditionally believed to be David, though some scholars suggest it could be another figure during the Babylonian exile. The psalmist is in a state of distress and is crying out to God for help. 2. Prisoners Symbolically represents those who are in bondage, whether physically, spiritually, or emotionally. In the context of the psalm, it may refer to the Israelites in exile or anyone suffering under oppression. 3. Condemned to Death Refers to those who are facing imminent death, either literally or metaphorically. This can be seen as a representation of the ultimate consequence of sin, which is spiritual death. 4. God The central figure who hears the cries of the oppressed and has the power to deliver and redeem. 5. Zion While not directly mentioned in this verse, Zion is often referenced in the surrounding context of the psalm as the place where God’s presence dwells and where His people long to return. Teaching Points God Hears the OppressedGod is attentive to the cries of those who are suffering. We can take comfort in knowing that our prayers do not go unheard. Deliverance from Bondage Just as God delivered the Israelites, He offers spiritual freedom through Christ. We are called to live in the freedom He provides. Hope for the Condemned No matter how dire our situation, God offers hope and redemption. This is a reminder of the grace available to us through Jesus. Intercession for the Suffering As believers, we are encouraged to pray for those who are in bondage or facing death, trusting in God’s power to deliver. Living in Freedom Understanding our freedom in Christ should lead us to live lives that reflect His love and grace, serving others and sharing the message of hope. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding that God hears the groaning of prisoners impact your prayer life, especially when you feel oppressed or unheard?2. In what ways can you relate to the concept of being "condemned to death" spiritually, and how does Christ’s sacrifice change that status? 3. How can you actively participate in God’s mission to release those who are in bondage, both physically and spiritually, in your community? 4. Reflect on a time when you felt God delivered you from a difficult situation. How can that experience encourage others who are currently in "prison"? 5. How do the themes of Psalm 102:20 challenge you to live differently in light of the freedom and hope offered through Jesus Christ? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 2:23-25The groaning of the Israelites in Egypt and God’s response to their cries parallels the theme of God hearing the oppressed. Isaiah 61:1 This passage speaks of the Messiah’s mission to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, echoing the themes of deliverance in Psalm 102:20. Luke 4:18-19 Jesus quotes Isaiah 61, affirming His role in fulfilling this prophecy, which connects to the release of those condemned. Romans 8:1-2 Paul speaks of the freedom from the law of sin and death through Christ, which relates to the release of those condemned to death. Hebrews 2:14-15 Discusses how Jesus frees those who were held in slavery by the fear of death, connecting to the release mentioned in the psalm.
People David, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Appointed, Condemned, Cry, Death, Die, Doomed, Free, Groan, Groaning, Groans, Hearing, Loose, Making, Ordered, Prisoner, Prisoners, Release, Sighing, SonsDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 102:20 5344 imprisonment Library Out of the Deep of Loneliness, Failure, and Disappointment. My heart is smitten down, and withered like grass. I am even as a sparrow that sitteth alone on the housetop--Ps. cii. 4, 6. My lovers and friends hast Thou put away from me, and hid mine acquaintance out of my sight--Ps. lxxviii. 18. I looked on my right hand, and saw there was no man that would know me. I had no place to flee unto, and no man cared for my soul. I cried unto Thee, O Lord, and said, Thou art my Hope. When my spirit was in heaviness, then Thou knewest my path.--Ps. cxlii. 4, 5. … Charles Kingsley—Out of the Deep That True Solace is to be Sought in God Alone That He who is About to Communicate with Christ Ought to Prepare Himself with Great Diligence The Never Changing One. The Unchangeableness of God Our Last ChapterConcluded with the Words, "For Childhood and Youth are Vanity"... Notes on the Fourth Century The Nature of Justification Notes on the Third Century After the Scripture. Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness, Suffering Characters and Names of Messiah Covenanting Predicted in Prophecy. Letter xvi to Rainald, Abbot of Foigny History of the Interpretation. Testimonies. Spiritual Hunger Shall be Satisfied An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. The Being of God Psalms Links Psalm 102:20 NIVPsalm 102:20 NLT Psalm 102:20 ESV Psalm 102:20 NASB Psalm 102:20 KJV Psalm 102:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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