Which Psalm Brings Comfort to Hostages and Their Families

20

I usually write on Wednesdays, but I’m breaking my routine this week because I read that many hostages and their families have turned to Psalm 20 during captivity.

I opened my book and read it too.

I wanted to share this Psalm with you so you can join me in honoring the hostages still held captive by Hamas.

Psalms (Tehillim) are a collection of sacred prayers and poems that have been a central part of Jewish life for thousands of years. They express everything from gratitude and joy to fear and sorrow. People in the Jewish community use Psalms during daily prayers, special occasions, and especially in difficult times.

This Psalm is a prayer asking for protection, help, and success in times of trouble. For those trapped in uncertainty and danger, as well as their loved ones waiting and hoping, Psalm 20 has become a powerful source of comfort and strength.

To honor this important tradition and make the Psalm feel welcoming to everyone, I created a gender-neutral version of Psalm 20. In it, I use “God” and “Eternal” instead of gendered pronouns or titles, keeping the original meaning while making it inclusive.

Here is my gender-neutral adaptation of Psalm 20:

Psalm 20 (Gender-Neutral Adaptation)

May the Eternal answer you in the day of trouble;
May the name of the God of our ancestors protect you.

May the Eternal send help from the sanctuary
and support you from Zion.

May the Eternal remember all your offerings
and accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah.

May the Eternal grant you your heart’s desire
and fulfill all your plans.

We will rejoice in your salvation,
and in the name of our God we will raise banners.
May the Eternal fulfill all your petitions.

Now I know that the Eternal saves the anointed one,
answering from the heavens by the Eternal’s strong right hand.

Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the Eternal our God.

They collapse and fall,
but we rise and stand firm.

Eternal, save us!
May the Eternal answer us on the day we call.

I hope this Psalm brings you the same comfort and hope that it has brought to so many facing difficult moments. Let us all hold the remaining hostages in our thoughts and prayers, and pray earnestly for their safe release.

Shabbat Shalom

Kenden