Psalm 34:18, "Yahweh is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit," offers profound comfort and hope, especially in times of deep sorrow and despair. Let's break down its meaning:

"Yahweh is near..." This is the core message. "Yahweh" is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. The phrase "is near" doesn't just mean geographically close. It implies:
Presence: God is present with those who are suffering. They are not alone in their pain.
Attention: God notices, sees, and is attentive to their pain.
Empathy: God understands and feels compassion for their suffering. God isn't distant or indifferent.

"...to those who have a broken heart..." A "broken heart" signifies deep emotional pain, grief, loss, disappointment, or betrayal. It's a state of profound sorrow and emotional injury. It suggests:
Vulnerability: Those with broken hearts are often vulnerable, weak, and in need of comfort.
Sincerity: This kind of pain often strips away pretense and leads to a raw and honest relationship with God.
Humility: It can humble a person, making them more receptive to God's grace.

"...and saves those who have a crushed spirit." A "crushed spirit" (or "contrite spirit") is an even deeper state of despair. It implies:
Hopelessness: A feeling of utter hopelessness, where one's spirit is defeated or overwhelmed.
Worthlessness: A sense of deep unworthiness and self-reproach.
Desperation: A desperate need for rescue and restoration.
Salvation and Healing: In this context, "saves" implies deliverance from the crushed spirit. It suggests God provides emotional, spiritual, and sometimes even physical healing. It also implies restoring hope, purpose, and a sense of worth.

In summary, the verse means:

God is especially close to people who are experiencing deep emotional pain and despair. He doesn't abandon them in their suffering. Instead, He offers comfort, healing, restoration, and salvation to those who are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit. It highlights God's compassion and care for the vulnerable and suffering. It's an invitation to turn to God in times of pain, trusting that He will be present and provide the help needed.

Important Considerations:

It's not a promise of an easy fix: The verse doesn't promise immediate or effortless relief from suffering. Healing can be a process.
It's not a reward for suffering: It's not saying that God only helps those who are broken. It's highlighting God's particular tenderness toward those who are hurting.
It encourages humility: A broken heart and crushed spirit can break down pride and create space for God to work in our lives.
It offers hope: The verse offers profound hope for those struggling with deep emotional pain. It assures them that they are not forgotten or abandoned, and that God offers a path to healing and restoration.

This verse is a cornerstone of comfort for many and reflects a core tenet of faith: God's love and concern for those who are hurting.