50+ Bible Verses About Weeping (And What They Mean)

We all face moments of sorrow and tears. Sometimes, finding the right words to express our feelings can be tough. This article brings together 50 Bible verses that speak about weeping.

These verses offer comfort and understanding. They remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. Whether you're seeking solace or just curious, these passages provide insight and hope.

What Does the Bible Say About Weeping

Weeping is a common human experience, and the Bible has a lot to say about it. The verses we've looked at show that tears are a natural part of life, whether they come from sorrow, joy, repentance, or empathy. These passages offer comfort and remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. They also encourage us to find hope and strength in our faith.

One key theme is weeping in sorrow. Verses like Psalm 6:6 and Lamentations 1:16 show that it's okay to grieve openly. They remind us that expressing our pain is a natural part of healing. These verses validate our emotions and let us know that it's normal to feel deep sorrow.

Another theme is weeping for joy. Verses such as Genesis 21:6 and Psalm 126:5 highlight that joy can follow sorrow. They teach us that our struggles can lead to moments of great happiness. These passages encourage us to hold on through tough times, knowing that joy can come after the storm.

We also see weeping in repentance. Verses like Joel 2:12-13 and Psalm 51:17 emphasize the importance of turning to God with a sincere heart. They show that genuine repentance can bring comfort and strength. These verses remind us that God's grace and mercy are always available to us.

Lastly, the Bible speaks about weeping for others. Romans 12:15 and 2 Corinthians 2:4 encourage us to share in the joys and sorrows of those around us. They teach us the value of empathy and compassion. These passages remind us that we are all connected and that supporting each other is a vital part of our faith.

50 Bible Verses About Weeping

10 Bible Verses on Weeping in Sorrow

1) Psalm 6:6

I am weary with my groaning; all night I make my bed swim; I drench my couch with my tears.

Meaning: This verse captures the raw, unfiltered emotion of deep sorrow. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, expressing our pain is a natural and necessary part of healing.

2) Lamentations 1:16

For these things I weep; My eye, my eye overflows with water; Because the comforter, who should restore my life, Is far from me. My children are desolate Because the enemy prevailed.

Meaning: While the world often tells us to hide our tears, this verse shows that it's okay to grieve openly. It speaks to the deep pain of feeling abandoned and the longing for comfort, making it a powerful reminder that our emotions are valid and shared by many.

3) Jeremiah 9:1

Oh, that my head were waters, And my eyes a fountain of tears, That I might weep day and night For the slain of the daughter of my people!

Meaning: This verse invites us to reflect on the depth of compassion and empathy we can feel for others. It challenges us to consider how deeply we are moved by the suffering around us and how that empathy can drive us to action.

4) Job 16:20

My friends scorn me; My eyes pour out tears to God.

Meaning: When you feel misunderstood or mocked by those close to you, remember that your tears are seen and valued by God. It's like pouring out your heart to someone who truly listens and cares.

5) Isaiah 22:4

Therefore I said, "Look away from me, I will weep bitterly; Do not labor to comfort me Because of the plundering of the daughter of my people."

Meaning: Sometimes, we need to allow ourselves to feel the full weight of our emotions without rushing to find comfort. It's okay to take a moment to grieve deeply before moving forward.

6) Psalm 42:3

My tears have been my food day and night, While they continually say to me, "Where is your God?"

Meaning: Ever felt like your pain is endless and questions about your faith only make it worse? This verse captures that struggle, showing how deep sorrow can coexist with a search for divine presence.

7) Jeremiah 13:17

But if you will not hear it, My soul will weep in secret for your pride; My eyes will weep bitterly And run down with tears, Because the Lord's flock has been taken captive.

Meaning: Picture a parent silently crying for a child's stubbornness. This verse challenges us to consider the hidden sorrows caused by our own pride and the impact it has on those who care for us.

8) 2 Samuel 1:12

And they mourned and wept and fasted until evening for Saul and for Jonathan his son, for the people of the Lord and for the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.

Meaning: Losing someone dear can feel like the world has stopped. This verse captures that shared grief, reminding us that it's okay to take time to mourn deeply and honor those we've lost.

9) Ezekiel 24:16

Son of man, behold, I take away from you the desire of your eyes with one stroke; yet you shall neither mourn nor weep, nor shall your tears run down.

Meaning: The power of this verse lies in its stark portrayal of sudden loss. It reminds us that life can change in an instant, urging us to cherish what we have while we have it.

10) John 11:35

Jesus wept.

Meaning: We often try to hide our tears, but this verse shows that even the strongest among us can openly express sorrow. It invites us to consider the power and authenticity in showing our true emotions.

10 Bible Verses on Weeping for Joy

11) Genesis 21:6

And Sarah said, "God has made me laugh, and all who hear will laugh with me."

Meaning: Joy can be contagious. When we experience true happiness, it has the power to spread and uplift those around us, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

12) Psalm 126:5

Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.

Meaning: The wisdom here is profound: our struggles and sorrows can lead to moments of great happiness. It's a reminder that enduring tough times can eventually bring about deep, lasting joy.

13) Luke 6:21

Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.

Meaning: This verse speaks to the promise of transformation. It assures us that our current sorrows will eventually give way to joy, highlighting the hope and renewal that lie ahead.

14) John 16:20

Most assuredly, I say to you that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy.

Meaning: Embrace the truth that tough times won't last forever. Your current struggles can transform into moments of joy, offering hope and encouragement to keep moving forward.

15) Genesis 45:2

And he wept aloud, and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard it.

Meaning: Sometimes, our deepest emotions can be heard and felt by those around us, offering a sense of shared humanity and connection in our most vulnerable moments.

16) Nehemiah 8:10

Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Meaning: There's a profound beauty in knowing that divine joy can uplift and empower us, even in our darkest moments. It's a reminder that true strength comes from a source beyond ourselves, offering unwavering support and hope.

17) Esther 8:16-17

The Jews had light and gladness, joy and honor. And in every province and city, wherever the king's command and decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a holiday. Then many of the people of the land became Jews, because fear of the Jews fell upon them.

Meaning: Ever felt like the odds were stacked against you? This verse shows that even in the darkest times, there can be a sudden and overwhelming shift towards joy and celebration, reminding us that hope can emerge when we least expect it.

18) Luke 15:7

I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

Meaning: The heavens celebrate your return with boundless joy, reminding you that every step back towards grace is cherished and honored.

19) Luke 15:10

Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

Meaning: Take a moment to reflect on the immense joy that comes from a single act of turning back to grace. This verse beautifully illustrates how every step towards redemption is celebrated and valued beyond measure.

20) Acts 2:46-47

So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

Meaning: This passage beautifully captures the joy and unity that comes from shared faith and community. It reminds us that genuine connection and gratitude can lead to profound growth and blessings.

10 Bible Verses on Weeping in Repentance

21) Joel 2:12-13

Now, therefore," says the Lord, "Turn to Me with all your heart, With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning." So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the Lord your God, For He is gracious and merciful, Slow to anger, and of great kindness; And He relents from doing harm.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that turning to God with genuine sincerity can bring profound comfort and strength. His grace and mercy are always there, offering a refuge in times of trouble.

22) Psalm 51:17

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart— These, O God, You will not despise.

Meaning: Sometimes, it's not about grand gestures but about coming to God with a humble and sincere heart. Remember, He values your genuine repentance and openness above all else.

23) James 4:9

Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.

Meaning: Sometimes, embracing sorrow can be a powerful step towards deeper spiritual growth. It's through these moments of genuine repentance that we often find the most profound transformation.

24) 2 Corinthians 7:10

For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.

Meaning: God's promise of salvation through genuine repentance is timeless. This verse reminds us that true, heartfelt sorrow can lead to profound spiritual renewal and lasting peace.

25) Ezra 10:1

Now while Ezra was praying, and while he was confessing, weeping, and bowing down before the house of God, a very large assembly of men, women, and children gathered to him from Israel; for the people wept very bitterly.

Meaning: Ever felt the power of collective emotion? Reflect on how shared moments of vulnerability can lead to profound change and unity. Embrace the strength that comes from facing challenges together.

26) Nehemiah 1:4

So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that turning to God with genuine sincerity can bring profound comfort and strength. His grace and mercy are always there, offering a refuge in times of trouble.

27) Daniel 9:3-5

Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. And I prayed to the Lord my God, and made confession, and said, "O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments, we have sinned and committed iniquity, we have done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgments."

Meaning: In ancient times, fasting and wearing sackcloth were signs of deep repentance. This verse shifts our perspective by showing that true repentance involves a heartfelt return to God, challenging us to see confession as a powerful act of humility and renewal.

28) Jonah 3:5-8

So the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them. Then word came to the king of Nineveh; and he arose from his throne and laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes. And he caused it to be proclaimed and published throughout Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything; do not let them eat, or drink water. But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily to God; yes, let every one turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands.

Meaning: When life feels chaotic and overwhelming, this verse shows the power of collective humility and repentance. Just as a community can come together in times of joy, they can also unite in seeking forgiveness and change, finding strength in shared vulnerability.

29) Matthew 5:4

Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.

Meaning: Embrace the promise that in your moments of sorrow, comfort is not just a possibility but a certainty. Let this truth be the foundation upon which you find peace and hope.

30) Luke 18:13

And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!'

Meaning: Ever felt unworthy or distant? Remember, God's mercy is always within reach, no matter how far you feel. Embrace this truth and let it bring you comfort and hope.

10 Bible Verses on Weeping for Others

31) Romans 12:15

Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.

Meaning: The word "weep" here is powerful. It's like being a shoulder to cry on for a friend, showing that true empathy means sharing in both joy and sorrow.

32) 2 Corinthians 2:4

For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you, with many tears, not that you should be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have so abundantly for you.

Meaning: In the midst of life's storms, remember that God's love and grace are always with you. This verse is a gentle reminder that even in our deepest struggles, we are deeply loved and cared for.

33) Philippians 3:18

For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ.

Meaning: There's hope in knowing that true humility and faith set us apart from worldly pride and fear. This verse challenges us to reflect on our own lives and align more closely with the values of the cross.

34) Jeremiah 14:17

Let my eyes flow with tears night and day, And let them not cease; For the virgin daughter of my people Has been broken with a mighty stroke, with a very severe blow.

Meaning: Ever felt a deep, unending sorrow? This verse speaks to that raw emotion, reminding you that it's okay to feel deeply and to let your tears flow as part of your healing journey.

35) Lamentations 3:48

My eyes overflow with rivers of water for the destruction of the daughter of my people.

Meaning: The vivid imagery here captures the profound sorrow and empathy felt for others' suffering. It's a poetic reminder of the deep emotional connections we share with those around us.

36) 1 Samuel 1:10

And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish.

Meaning: In life's highs and lows, turning to God with our deepest emotions brings comfort and strength. "Pour your heart out" captures the essence of finding solace in divine connection.

37) Ruth 1:9

The Lord grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband.

Meaning: In the midst of life's uncertainties, remember the importance of seeking peace and stability. Let this verse inspire you to find and cherish moments of rest and comfort in your journey.

38) Genesis 23:2

So Sarah died in Kirjath Arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her.

Meaning: There's a profound comfort in knowing that even in our deepest sorrows, God's presence and grace surround us, offering solace and strength.

39) Acts 20:37

Then they all wept freely, and fell on Paul's neck and kissed him

Meaning: This moment captures the deep bonds of love and fellowship that God fosters among His people. It invites us to experience the warmth and connection that come from genuine, heartfelt relationships rooted in faith.

40) 2 Samuel 3:32

And they buried Abner in Hebron; and the king lifted up his voice and wept at the grave of Abner, and all the people wept.

Meaning: In moments of deep sorrow, this verse serves as a comforting reminder that shared grief can bring people together, offering a sense of unity and collective strength. It encourages us to look beyond our pain, knowing that we are not alone in our struggles.

10 Bible Verses on Weeping in Hope

41) Revelation 21:4

And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.

Meaning: The promise of a future without pain or sorrow is incredibly uplifting. It reminds us that no matter what we face now, there is a hopeful and transformative future awaiting us.

42) Psalm 30:5

For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.

Meaning: Life's challenges are temporary, but God's blessings are enduring. It's a timeless reminder that after every hardship, a brighter day awaits, filled with renewed hope and joy.

43) Isaiah 25:8

He will swallow up death forever, And the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces; The rebuke of His people He will take away from all the earth; For the Lord has spoken.

Meaning: God's promises are unwavering and bring immense comfort. Trust in His word, knowing that He will bring an end to all suffering and restore joy to your life.

44) Romans 8:18

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that the challenges you face now are just a small part of your journey. There's a brighter, more glorious future ahead that will make all your struggles worthwhile.

45) 1 Thessalonians 4:13

But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.

Meaning: The timeless truth here is that hope transforms our perspective on loss. Embrace this assurance and let it fill you with peace, knowing that faith offers a comforting promise beyond sorrow.

46) Isaiah 35:10

And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, And come to Zion with singing, With everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, And sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

Meaning: Faith brings a profound sense of security and peace. Trust in God's unwavering love and protection, knowing that He will guide you to everlasting joy and comfort.

47) Jeremiah 31:13

Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance, And the young men and the old, together; For I will turn their mourning to joy, Will comfort them, And make them rejoice rather than sorrow.

Meaning: God's presence brings comfort and joy, even in our darkest times. This verse encourages us to embrace a mindset of hope and trust, knowing that sorrow can be transformed into profound happiness.

48) Zephaniah 3:18

I will gather those who sorrow over the appointed assembly, Who are among you, To whom its reproach is a burden.

Meaning: There's a beautiful promise here of unity and relief from burdens. It speaks to the joy of being brought together and finding comfort in shared experiences.

49) Romans 8:23

Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body.

Meaning: Embrace the truth that hope and faith are active pursuits. Let this verse inspire you to live with anticipation and purpose, knowing that your journey is part of a greater promise.

50) 2 Corinthians 4:17

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

Meaning: When life feels heavy, remember that your struggles are temporary and leading to something far greater. Hold on to the hope that brighter days are ahead.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Weeping

Applying Bible teachings about weeping to daily life can bring comfort and strength. These verses remind us that our emotions are valid and that we are not alone in our struggles.

Here are some practical steps to live out these biblical principles:

• Daily Reflection: Spend a few minutes each day reading and reflecting on a Bible verse about weeping. Let it guide your thoughts and actions.
• Prayer: Include prayers that express your emotions, whether they are of sorrow, joy, or repentance. Talk to God openly about your feelings.
• Community Support: Share your struggles and joys with a trusted friend or community group. Offer and receive support, knowing that empathy strengthens bonds.
• Acts of Kindness: Show compassion to others by being there for them in their times of need. A simple act of kindness can make a big difference.
• Gratitude Journal: Keep a journal where you note moments of joy and gratitude. Reflecting on these can help you see the positive side of life.

Remember, God is always with you, offering comfort and hope. Your faith can transform your life, bringing peace and strength even in tough times.

Explore more prayers and Bible verses on PrayersFor or use our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.