Psalms 37:17
Psalms 37:17 in Multiple Translations
For the arms of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous.
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous.
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken; But Jehovah upholdeth the righteous.
For the arms of the evil-doers will be broken: but the Lord is the support of the good.
For the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord supports those who do right.
For the armes of the wicked shall be broken: but the Lord vpholdeth the iust men.
For the arms of the wicked are shivered, And Jehovah is sustaining the righteous.
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous.
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous.
For I said: Lest at any time my enemies rejoice over me: and whilst my feet are moved, they speak great things against me.
because Yahweh will completely take away the strength of wicked people, but he will ◄sustain/take care of► people who live righteously.
Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 37:17
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Psalms 37:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
כִּ֤י
זְרוֹע֣וֹת
רְ֭שָׁעִים
תִּשָּׁבַ֑רְנָה
וְ/סוֹמֵ֖ךְ
צַדִּיקִ֣ים
יְהוָֽה
כִּ֤י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
זְרוֹע֣וֹת
zᵉrôwaʻ
H2220
arm
N-cp
רְ֭שָׁעִים
râshâʻ
H7563
wicked
Adj
תִּשָּׁבַ֑רְנָה
shâbar
H7665
to break
V-Niphal-Imperf-3fp
וְ/סוֹמֵ֖ךְ
çâmak
H5564
to support
Conj | V-Qal
צַדִּיקִ֣ים
tsaddîyq
H6662
righteous
Adj
יְהוָֽה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 37:17
כִּ֤י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
זְרוֹע֣וֹת
zᵉrôwaʻ
H2220
"arm"
N-cp
The Hebrew word for arm refers to the arm as stretched out, symbolizing strength, force, or power, as seen in the KJV translations of arm, mighty, and strength.
Definition: 1) arm, forearm, shoulder, strength 1a) arm 1b) arm (as symbol of strength) 1c) forces (political and military) 1d) shoulder (of animal sacrificed)
Usage: Occurs in 84 OT verses. KJV: arm, [phrase] help, mighty, power, shoulder, strength. See also: Genesis 49:24; Proverbs 31:17; Psalms 10:15.
רְ֭שָׁעִים
râshâʻ
H7563
"wicked"
Adj
This word describes someone who is morally wrong, a bad person who is guilty of crime or sin against God or others. It is used to describe the wicked in biblical stories, such as in the book of Genesis.
Definition: 1) wicked, criminal 1a) guilty one, one guilty of crime (subst) 1b) wicked (hostile to God) 1c) wicked, guilty of sin (against God or man)
Usage: Occurs in 248 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] condemned, guilty, ungodly, wicked (man), that did wrong. See also: Genesis 18:23; Psalms 101:8; Psalms 1:1.
תִּשָּׁבַ֑רְנָה
shâbar
H7665
"to break"
V-Niphal-Imperf-3fp
This word means to break or shatter something, either physically or emotionally. It can also mean to burst or rupture, and is often used to describe intense violence or destruction. In the Bible, it's translated as break or crush.
Definition: 1) to break, break in pieces 1a) (Qal) 1a1) break, break in or down, rend violently, wreck, crush, quench 1a2) to break, rupture (fig) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be broken, be maimed, be crippled, be wrecked 1b2) to be broken, be crushed (fig) 1c) (Piel) to shatter, break 1d) (Hiphil) to cause to break out, bring to the birth 1e) (Hophal) to be broken, be shattered Aramaic equivalent: te.var (תְּבַר "to break" H8406)
Usage: Occurs in 143 OT verses. KJV: break (down, off, in pieces, up), broken (-hearted), bring to the birth, crush, destroy, hurt, quench, [idiom] quite, tear, view (by mistake for H7663 (שָׂבַר)). See also: Genesis 19:9; Isaiah 27:11; Psalms 3:8.
וְ/סוֹמֵ֖ךְ
çâmak
H5564
"to support"
Conj | V-Qal
To support or lean on something, like a person or object, as seen in the Bible where God upholds his people. It means to hold something up or stand firm. This concept appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) to lean, lay, rest, support, put, uphold, lean upon 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lean or lay upon, rest upon, lean against 1a2) to support, uphold, sustain 1b) (Niphal) to support or brace oneself 1c) (Piel) to sustain, refresh, revive
Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: bear up, establish, (up-) hold, lay, lean, lie hard, put, rest self, set self, stand fast, stay (self), sustain. See also: Genesis 27:37; Judges 16:29; Psalms 3:6.
צַדִּיקִ֣ים
tsaddîyq
H6662
"righteous"
Adj
Means being just or righteous, as seen in government, personal conduct, or character, often describing someone made right with God. It appears in descriptions of King David and other biblical leaders. The concept is central to the Bible's teachings on morality and ethics.
Definition: 1) just, lawful, righteous 1a) just, righteous (in government) 1b) just, right (in one's cause) 1c) just, righteous (in conduct and character) 1d) righteous (as justified and vindicated by God) 1e) right, correct, lawful
Usage: Occurs in 197 OT verses. KJV: just, lawful, righteous (man). See also: Genesis 6:9; Proverbs 10:31; Psalms 1:5.
יְהוָֽה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
Study Notes — Psalms 37:17
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Psalms 37:17 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Psalms 37:17
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 37:17
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
- Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
- Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
- Cambridge Bible on Psalms 37:17
- Barnes' Notes on Psalms 37:17
- Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
- Sermons on Psalms 37:17
Context — Delight Yourself in the LORD
15But their swords will pierce their own hearts, and their bows will be broken.
16Better is the little of the righteous than the abundance of many who are wicked.
17For the arms of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous.
18The LORD knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will last forever. 19In the time of evil they will not be ashamed, and in the days of famine they will be satisfied.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Isaiah 41:10 | Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My right hand of righteousness. |
| 2 | Psalms 63:8 | My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me. |
| 3 | Psalms 145:14 | The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. |
| 4 | Isaiah 42:1 | “Here is My Servant, whom I uphold, My Chosen One, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations. |
| 5 | Psalms 37:24 | Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, for the LORD is holding his hand. |
| 6 | Psalms 119:116–117 | Sustain me as You promised, that I may live; let me not be ashamed of my hope. Uphold me, and I will be saved, that I may always regard Your statutes. |
| 7 | Psalms 51:12 | Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit. |
| 8 | Jude 1:24 | Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you unblemished in His glorious presence, with great joy— |
| 9 | Psalms 10:15 | Break the arm of the wicked and evildoer; call him to account for his wickedness until none is left to be found. |
| 10 | Psalms 41:12 | In my integrity You uphold me and set me in Your presence forever. |
Psalms 37:17 Summary
This verse means that God is in control and will ultimately bring down those who oppose Him, while taking care of and supporting those who love and follow Him. It's a promise that God will be with us and help us, even when things seem tough, as seen in Psalms 23:4. We can trust God to provide for us and protect us, just like a good shepherd takes care of his sheep, as promised in John 10:11. By trusting in God's power and love, we can have peace and confidence, knowing that He is always with us, as seen in Romans 8:28.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for the arms of the wicked to be broken?
This phrase means that the power and strength of those who oppose God will ultimately be destroyed, as seen in Psalms 37:15 where their own weapons turn against them, and in Psalms 9:16, where God is known for judging the wicked.
How does God uphold the righteous?
God upholds the righteous by providing for their needs, protecting them from harm, and guiding them through life's challenges, as promised in Psalms 55:22 and Matthew 6:33.
Is this verse promising that believers will never face difficulties?
No, this verse is not promising a life free from difficulties, but rather that God will be with believers through those difficulties, as seen in Psalms 23:4 and Romans 8:28, where God works all things for the good of those who love Him.
What is the relationship between the breaking of the wicked and the upholding of the righteous?
The breaking of the wicked and the upholding of the righteous are two sides of the same coin, demonstrating God's justice and sovereignty, as seen in Psalms 37:16, where the little that the righteous have is better than the abundance of the wicked, and in Proverbs 10:3, where the Lord will not let the righteous go hungry but will deny the wicked their desires.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I have seen God uphold the righteous in my own life or in the lives of others?
- How can I trust God to uphold me in times of uncertainty or difficulty, as promised in Psalms 37:17?
- What are some 'arms of the wicked' that I see in the world around me, and how can I pray for God to break them, as seen in Psalms 37:15?
- In what ways can I be a reflection of God's upholding power to those around me, as seen in Matthew 5:16?
Gill's Exposition on Psalms 37:17
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,.... That is, their sword arm, with which they have drawn it; and so shall not be able to strike with it; and with which they have bent their bows, but
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 37:17
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous. For the arms ... be broken.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
This is a proof of what he said . For what the wicked have shall suddenly be lost and gone, but God will maintain the righteous in their happy estate.
Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
Psalms 37:17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous.Ver. 17. For the arms of the wicked shall be broken] i.e. His power, valour, all that wherein they think their strength and help standeth. See Psalms 37:15; the strongest sinew in the arm of flesh cracks. But the Lord upholdeth the righteous] Though seemingly never so weak and wealthless.
Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
(17) The arms—i.e., of the body, not the sword and bow mentioned above. In contrast, the arms of Jehovah are under the righteous, and uphold him.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
Verse 17. The arms of the wicked] Their power to do evil. Of this they are often deprived. Talents lent and abused shall be resumed, and the misuser called to a severe account by the Lord of the talents.
Cambridge Bible on Psalms 37:17
17. For the arms &c.] All the power which they have misused for evil will be rendered impotent. Cp. Psalms 10:15; Job 38:15. upholdeth] When the wicked strives to make him fall (Psalms 37:14), and at all times. See Psalms 37:24; Psalms 37:31. Cp. Psalms 3:5; Psalms 54:4; Psalms 71:6.
Barnes' Notes on Psalms 37:17
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken - See the notes at Psalms 10:15.
Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 37:17
17. Arms of the wicked—Their instruments of power.
Sermons on Psalms 37:17
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Do Not Fear What You See by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson emphasizes the assurance found in Psalms 37, where God promises to uphold the righteous amidst a world filled with chaos and sin. He highlights that despite the ala |
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Gods Presence by Kathryn Kuhlman | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is interested in each individual as if they were the only person in the world. He uses the story of Elisha and his servant to illus |
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(Belarus) God Has Risen to Defend His Name by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes God's promises of provision and protection for his people. He highlights that God has promised that his people will never have to beg for br |
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Four Wonderful Discoveries by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the providence of God and how He prepares and guides His people. He emphasizes that if God has led someone to a particular church or ministry, |
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Don't Be Dismayed, God Will Not Fail You by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joshua in the book of Joshua, chapter 8. The Lord speaks to Joshua and tells him not to fear or be discouraged, as He has given |
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God Can Fix Anything by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God to fix anything that has gone wrong in our lives. He starts by reminding the congregation that everyone needs something fix |
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Turn the Tide by Abigail Miller | This sermon emphasizes the need to stand strong against evil forces that threaten to corrupt society, highlighting the importance of turning to God for restoration and revival. It |