Psalm 34:18
“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”Read in Context
Modern Meaning
What Does “Broken heart” Mean?
Deep emotional pain or grief.
Biblical Origin
Where Does This Phrase Come From?
The Psalms frequently use the image of a broken heart to describe spiritual anguish and genuine repentance. The KJV's use of "broken heart" as a compound concept helped establish it as the universal English expression for emotional devastation.
The phrase appears in Psalm 34:18 in the King James Version of the Bible, first published in 1611.
Usage Today
How Is It Used Today?
Used universally to describe grief, loss, or romantic heartbreak. So common that most people have no idea it comes from Scripture.
The KJV Verse
Psalm 34:18
“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
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