Psalm 131:2
ESV
But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.
NIV
But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content.
NASB
I have certainly soothed and quieted my soul; Like a weaned child resting against his mother, My soul within me is like a weaned child.
CSB
Instead, I have calmed and quieted my soul like a weaned child with its mother; my soul is like a weaned child.
NLT
Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself, like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother’s milk. Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me.
KJV
Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.
NKJV
Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, Like a weaned child with his mother; Like a weaned child is my soul within me.
What does Psalm 131:2 mean?
When a child is "weaned," they can eat foods other than their mother's milk. Such a child is more patient and content while waiting for nourishment. The un-weaned infant cries when hungry; they are constantly looking for more. David compares his trust in God to the attitude of a weaned child: content, trusting, and calm even while waiting to accept whatever the Lord has in store.Psalm 73 begins with an inward struggle over the apparent wealth and ease of wicked people (Psalm 73:2–3). However, the psalmist sought out a better perspective (Psalm 73:16–18). This led to a sense of contentment and calm (Psalm 73:25–28). In a similar way, the author of the book of Hebrews encourages Christians to be content with what they have, thanks to the Lord's abiding presence (Hebrews 13:5).
