Psalms 37:21
What does Psalms 37:21 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 37:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 37:21 means
This verse sharply contrasts the financial conduct and character of the wicked with that of the righteous, revealing their moral dispositions. "The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again" highlights a characteristic lack of integrity, responsibility, and sometimes even a deliberate defrauding of creditors. It speaks to a self-serving nature and disregard for justice. In opposition, "But the righteous dealeth graciously, and giveth." This describes a generous, benevolent, and compassionate spirit. The righteous not only fulfills obligations but actively extends kindness, sharing resources, and demonstrating generosity, reflecting God's own grace and love. This moral distinction underpins the divine blessings promised.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again; But the righteous dealeth graciously, and giveth.
KJV
King James Version · 1611The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again; But the righteous dealeth graciously, and giveth.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949The sinner takes money and does not give it back; but the upright man has mercy, and gives to others.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862The wicked is borrowing and repayeth not, And the righteous is gracious and giving.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752They that render evil for good, have detracted me, because I followed goodness.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again; but the righteous is gracious and giveth:
Context
After the dramatic portrayal of the wicked's destruction in verse 20, this verse shifts to a practical, behavioral contrast between the wicked and the righteous, specifically regarding their financial dealings. It illustrates their differing moral characters through their actions, which in turn explains *why* God's blessings and curses fall as they do. This behavioral contrast then leads logically to the divine consequences for each group in the very next verse.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 22:7
The rich ruleth over the poor; And the borrower is servant to the lender.
- Deuteronomy 28:12
Jehovah will open unto thee his good treasure the heavens, to give the rain of thy land in its season, and to bless all the work of thy hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.
- 2 Corinthians 8:9
For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might become rich.
- Nehemiah 5:1
Then there arose a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews.
- 2 Corinthians 9:6
But thisI say, He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he that soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
- Isaiah 32:8
But the noble deviseth noble things; and in noble things shall he continue.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Psalms 37
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Psalms 37.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Anger
The Bible addresses anger directly, offering wisdom on its destructive potential and how believers can manage it righteously.
Topic
Bible Verses About Endurance
Scripture teaches that endurance, or patient steadfastness, is a vital Christian virtue enabling believers to persevere through trials and maintain faith.
Topic
Bible Verses About Envy
Envy is a powerful emotion, often leading to discontent and harmful actions. The Bible warns against its dangers and encourages a godly perspective.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for When You're Worried About Money
When the bills outpace the paycheck — verses for a steadier kind of provision.
Verses for
Bible Verses for After Losing Your Job
Verses for the day after the layoff — identity, provision, and what's next.
Verses for
Bible Verses for a Panic Attack at Night
Steady, slow verses to pray when your chest is tight and the house is dark.