Psalms 37:9
What does Psalms 37:9 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 37:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 37:9 means
This verse presents a clear, foundational distinction between the destinies of the wicked and the righteous, offering reassurance to those who patiently trust God. "Evil-doers shall be cut off" signifies their complete removal and destruction, a definitive end to their fleeting prosperity and existence. In stark contrast, "those that wait for Jehovah, they shall inherit the land." This phrase, deeply significant in Old Testament theology, refers not only to the literal promised land but also to a state of blessed security, sustained provision, and enduring rest under God's favor. It speaks of a permanent inheritance, contrasting sharply with the wicked's temporary gain.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000For evil-doers shall be cut off; But those that wait for Jehovah, they shall inherit the land.
KJV
King James Version · 1611For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901For evil-doers shall be cut off; But those that wait for Jehovah, they shall inherit the land.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949For the evil-doers will be cut off: but those who have faith in the Lord will have the earth for their heritage.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862For evil doers are cut off, As to those waiting on Jehovah, they possess the land.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752I am afflicted and humbled exceedingly: I roared with the groaning of my heart.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890For evil-doers shall be cut off; but those that wait on Jehovah, they shall possess the land.
Context
Following the warning against sinful anger in verse 8, this verse provides a crucial theological justification for the earlier calls to trust and patience. It explicitly states the differing destinies of the wicked and the waiting righteous, giving a firm reason to resist fretting. This verse introduces the powerful promise of "inheriting the land," which will be reiterated and expanded upon in the subsequent verses as a primary blessing for the faithful.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Hebrews 11:16
But now they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed of them, to be called their God; for he hath prepared for them a city.
- Isaiah 57:13
When thou criest, let them that thou hast gathered deliver thee; but the wind shall take them, a breath shall carry them all away: but he that taketh refuge in me shall possess the land, and shall inherit my holy mountain.
- Psalms 37:35
I have seen the wicked in great power, And spreading himself like a green tree in its native soil.
- Psalms 25:13
His soul shall dwell at ease; And his seed shall inherit the land.
- Job 20:23
When he is about to fill his belly, Godwill cast the fierceness of his wrath upon him, And will rain it upon him while he is eating.
- Psalms 37:29
The righteous shall inherit the land, And dwell therein for ever.
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