Psalms 37–40
Psalm 37:1-40
Psa.37.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לדוד: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- תתחר: VERB,hith,impf,2,m,sg
- במרעים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- אל: NEG
- תקנא: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- בעשי: PREP+VERB,qal,ptc,NA,m,pl
- עולה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 24:19-20 (verbal): Closely echoes the wording and admonition—'Fret not thyself because of evildoers' and warning that their hope will perish.
- Proverbs 23:17 (verbal): Similar injunction against envying the wicked: 'Let not thine heart envy sinners,' paralleling the command not to be jealous of evildoers.
- Psalm 73:3-4 (thematic): Deals with the related struggle of envying the prosperity of the wicked and the need to trust God's justice—an extended treatment of the same problem.
- Romans 12:19-21 (thematic): New Testament counsel not to avenge or be overcome by evil but to leave judgment to God and respond rightly—parallel ethical response to the presence of evildoers.
Alternative generated candidates
- Do not fret because of evildoers; do not be envious of those who do wrong.
- Of David. Do not fret because of evildoers; do not be envious of those who do wrong.
Psa.37.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- כחציר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מהרה: ADV
- ימלו: VERB,qal,imprf,3,m,pl
- וכירק: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דשא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יבולון: VERB,qal,imprf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Isaiah 40:6-8 (verbal): Uses the same imagery — 'all flesh is grass' and 'the grass withers' — emphasizing human transience like vegetation.
- 1 Peter 1:24-25 (quotation): Peter explicitly cites the 'grass withers' motif (quoting Isaiah) to underline the fleeting nature of human life and the contrast with God's enduring word.
- James 1:10-11 (verbal): Compares the rich man's fleeting glory to the grass that withers and falls, echoing Psalm 37's image of rapid decay.
- Psalm 103:15-16 (thematic): Speaks of human life as a transient plant—'man is like grass'—closely paralleling Psalm 37's metaphor of swift fading.
- Psalm 90:5-6 (thematic): Describes human life as passing like a dream and grass that springs up in the morning and is cut down, reinforcing the same motif of ephemerality.
Alternative generated candidates
- For they shall soon fade like the grass, and wither like the green herb.
- For they will soon wither like the grass and fade like the green herb.
Psa.37.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- בטח: ADV
- ביהוה: PREP+PN,sg
- ועשה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- שכן: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ורעה: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אמונה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 3:5 (verbal): Both verses command trust in the LORD as the foundational response of the righteous; Proverbs explicitly enjoins trusting the LORD (with heart) similar to Psalm 37:3’s opening 'trust in the LORD.'
- Jeremiah 17:7 (verbal): Jeremiah celebrates the blessedness of one who trusts in the LORD—language and theological affirmation of trust echo Psalm 37:3’s promise to rely on God.
- Isaiah 26:3-4 (thematic): Isaiah links trust in the LORD with divine preservation and steadfastness of mind—paralleling Psalm 37:3’s connection between trusting God and experiencing security/possession of the land.
- Psalm 37:34 (structural): Within the same psalm this verse repeats the themes of waiting on the LORD, keeping his way, and inheriting or dwelling in the land, directly developing the promises implied in Psalm 37:3.
Alternative generated candidates
- Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and feed on faithfulness.
- Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
Psa.37.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והתענג: VERB,hithpael,imp,2,m,sg
- על: PREP
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- משאלת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- לבך: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 20:4 (verbal): Prayer-blessing language: 'May he grant you your heart’s desire' echoes the wording and promise that God gives the desires of the heart.
- Psalm 37:5 (structural): Immediate psalmic context: the call to 'commit your way' and trust in the LORD follows and reinforces the promise that God will act on the faithful one’s desires.
- Psalm 145:19 (verbal): Closely related wording: 'He fulfills the desire of those who fear him,' linking reverent devotion to God with the granting of desires.
- Proverbs 10:24 (verbal): Parallel proverb: 'the desire of the righteous will be granted'—a wisdom tradition expression that mirrors the promise granted to the faithful.
- Matthew 7:7–8 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching 'Ask, and it will be given you' parallels the theme that seeking/delighting in God is met by God’s giving of requests or desires.
Alternative generated candidates
- Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
- Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psa.37.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- גול: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- על: PREP
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- דרכך: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- ובטח: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עליו: PREP,3,m,sg
- והוא: CONJ+PRON,3,m,sg
- יעשה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Prov.16:3 (verbal): Direct verbal parallel: 'Commit your work/way to the LORD' and promise that God will establish/bring about the outcome, echoing Ps 37:5's 'commit your way... and he will act.'
- Prov.3:5-6 (thematic): Shared theme of trusting the LORD wholeheartedly and the promise that he will direct or make straight one's path—trust leading to divine guidance.
- Prov.16:9 (thematic): Contrasts human planning with the LORD's sovereignty—'the LORD establishes his steps,' which parallels the idea of entrusting one’s way to God so that he will act.
- Ps.55:22 (thematic): Same motif of casting/committing burdens or ways to the LORD with the assurance that he will sustain or act on behalf of the trusting person.
- Jer.17:7-8 (thematic): Promise of blessing for one who trusts in the LORD—image of stability and prosperity resulting from trust, echoing Ps 37:5's assurance that God will act for those who commit their way to him.
Alternative generated candidates
- Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act.
- Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act.
Psa.37.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והוציא: VERB,hif,impf,3,m,sg
- כאור: PREP
- צדקך: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2ms
- ומשפטך: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- כצהרים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 4:18 (verbal): Compares the righteous’ way to increasing light 'shining brighter unto the perfect day,' echoing Ps 37:6’s image of righteousness appearing like light/noonday.
- Proverbs 13:9 (thematic): Speaks of 'the light of the righteous' in contrast to the wicked—same motif of moral righteousness depicted as light.
- Isaiah 58:10 (verbal): Uses very similar language about light and 'noonday' (your darkness shall be as the noonday), connecting divine vindication/relief with bright, noonday imagery.
- Malachi 4:2 (allusion): Promises that 'the Sun of righteousness shall rise' for the faithful; links the rising light imagery to God’s righteousness and deliverance.
- Psalm 97:11 (thematic): Declares that 'light is sown for the righteous,' thematically aligning with Ps 37:6’s portrayal of God manifesting righteousness as light.
Alternative generated candidates
- He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your justice as the noonday.
- He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your justice as the noonday.
Psa.37.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- דום: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- והתחולל: CONJ+VERB,hitpael,imperfect,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- תתחר: VERB,hitpael,imperfect,2,m,sg
- במצליח: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דרכו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- באיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg
- עשה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מזמות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
Parallels
- Psalm 46:10 (verbal): Shares the imperative 'Be still' (הדום/Be still) as a call to cease striving and recognize the Lord.
- Lamentations 3:26 (verbal): Speaks of waiting quietly for the LORD's salvation ('it is good to wait quietly'), paralleling the Psalm's call to wait patiently and be still.
- Psalm 62:5 (thematic): Expresses the theme of silent waiting for God alone ('my soul waits in silence for God'), echoing the Psalmist's trustful patience and restraint from fretting.
- Psalm 37:8 (structural): Immediate context within the same psalm: commands to refrain from anger and not to fret, directly connected to the injunction to be still and not be provoked by the success of the wicked.
Alternative generated candidates
- Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not be provoked when one prospers in his way, when a man carries out wicked schemes.
- Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out wicked schemes.
Psa.37.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- הרף: VERB,hif,imp,2,m,sg
- מאף: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועזב: VERB,qal,perf,3,ms
- חמה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- תתחר: VERB,hitp,impf,2,m,sg
- אך: PART
- להרע: VERB,qal,inf
Parallels
- Proverbs 14:29 (thematic): Both contrast patience and self-control with quick temper, commending restraint as wise and condemning anger as foolish.
- Ecclesiastes 7:9 (verbal): Uses very similar wording to warn against becoming quickly angry, linking impulsive anger with folly.
- James 1:19-20 (allusion): New Testament echo—urges believers to be slow to anger, observing that human anger does not produce God's righteousness, paralleling the Psalm's warning that anger leads to harm.
- Matthew 5:22 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching that unjustified anger carries moral culpability resonates with the Psalmist’s command to refrain from wrath and not to fret.
- Proverbs 15:1 (thematic): Counsels a gentle response to avert anger (a 'soft answer turns away wrath'), offering practical wisdom aligned with the Psalmist’s injunction to abandon anger.
Alternative generated candidates
- Cease from anger and abandon wrath; do not fret—it only leads to harm.
- Turn from anger, forsake wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.
Psa.37.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- מרעים: VERB,qal,ptc,,m,pl
- יכרתון: VERB,qal,impf,3,pl
- וקוי: VERB,qal,part,NA,m,pl
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
- יירשו: VERB,qal,impf,3,mp
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Psalm 37:11 (verbal): Within the same psalm: repeats the promise that the meek/righteous will inherit the land (earth).
- Psalm 37:22 (verbal): Closely parallel wording elsewhere in the psalm: the blessed/inheritors possess the earth while the cursed/wicked are cut off.
- Proverbs 2:21-22 (verbal): Uses very similar language — the upright dwell in the land and the wicked are cut off — echoing the contrast of righteous inheritance vs. the fate of evildoers.
- Matthew 5:5 (allusion): Beatitude 'Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth' alludes to the Psalmic promise that the righteous will inherit the land.
Alternative generated candidates
- For evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait for the LORD shall inherit the land.
- For the evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for the LORD shall inherit the land.
Psa.37.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועוד: CONJ
- מעט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואין: CONJ+PART,exist
- רשע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והתבוננת: VERB,hitp,perf,2,f,sg
- על: PREP
- מקומו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss:3,m
- ואיננו: VERB,qal,pres,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 37:35-36 (structural): Directly connected within the same psalm—reports seeing a mighty wicked person suddenly disappear ('I sought him, but he could not be found'), echoing 'the wicked shall not be' and 'you shall consider his place, and it shall not be.'
- Proverbs 10:25 (verbal): Uses the image of a passing whirlwind ('When the whirlwind passeth, the wicked is no more'), paralleling the brief duration and sudden removal of the wicked in Ps 37:10.
- Job 21:18 (verbal): Compares the wicked to stubble or chaff driven away by the wind—similar verbal imagery of the wicked's sudden vanishing and lack of enduring place.
- Psalm 73:18-19 (thematic): Speaks of the ultimate downfall and destruction of the wicked ('thou settest them in slippery places... thou castest them down'), reinforcing the theme that the wicked will not endure.
Alternative generated candidates
- A little while and the wicked will be no more; though you look for his place, he will not be there.
- A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for his place, he will not be there.
Psa.37.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וענוים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- יירשו: VERB,qal,impf,3,mp
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- והתענגו: VERB,hitpael,perf,3,m,pl
- על: PREP
- רב: ADJ,m,sg
- שלום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Matthew 5:5 (quotation): The Beatitude 'Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth' directly quotes/echoes the wording and promise of Ps 37:11.
- Luke 6:20–21 (thematic): Luke's version of the Beatitudes blesses the lowly/poor and parallels the theme that humility/poverty is met by God's future blessing and inheritance.
- Psalm 37:29 (verbal): Within the same psalm the promise is reiterated: 'The righteous shall inherit the land,' linking 'meek' with those who inherit the land.
- Isaiah 32:17 (thematic): Speaks of righteousness producing peace and quietness as its effect—paralleling Ps 37:11's emphasis that the meek will 'delight in abundant peace.'
Alternative generated candidates
- But the meek shall inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace.
- But the meek shall inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace.
Psa.37.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- זמם: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- רשע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לצדיק: PREP
- וחרק: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- עליו: PREP,3,m,sg
- שניו: NOUN,f,pl,poss3,m,pl
Parallels
- Psalm 37:14 (structural): Immediate context — continues the same scene: the wicked prepare their weapons against the poor/righteous, a direct narrative continuation of hostile plotting.
- Psalm 37:32 (verbal): Closely parallel wording and idea: the wicked 'lie in wait for the righteous' (intent to harm), echoing the same motif of ambush and hostility toward the righteous.
- Psalm 10:8 (thematic): Describes the wicked lying in ambush like a lion to seize the poor/innocent; shares the theme of secret plotting and predatory attack on vulnerable/righteous persons.
- Matthew 13:42 (verbal): Uses the image of 'weeping and gnashing of teeth' — the same figurative gesture of hostile rage/contumely (gnashing teeth) found in Ps 37:12.
- 1 Peter 4:12–14 (thematic): Addresses suffering and reproach experienced by the righteous/faithful at the hands of persecutors; thematically parallels the psalm’s depiction of hostile enmity directed at the righteous.
Alternative generated candidates
- The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash at him with their teeth.
- The wicked plots against the righteous and gnashes his teeth at him.
Psa.37.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- ישחק: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- ראה: VERB,qal,imperat,2,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- יבא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יומו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+prs3ms
Parallels
- Psalm 2:4 (verbal): Same verb and image—God ‘laughs’/‘sits in the heavens and laughs’ at rebellious rulers; both passages portray divine derision in light of impending judgment.
- Psalm 59:8 (verbal): Uses the same theme and wording (‘You, O LORD, laugh at them’), depicting Yahweh’s scorn of the nations/wicked and their coming defeat.
- Proverbs 1:26 (verbal): Wisdom personified says ‘I will laugh at your calamity’—a parallel formulation of mocking the wicked when judgment arrives.
- Obadiah 1:15 (thematic): Speaks of ‘the day of the LORD’ coming on the nations—a thematic parallel to ‘he sees that his day is coming’ (imminent divine judgment on the wicked).
Alternative generated candidates
- The LORD laughs at him, for he sees that his day is coming.
- The LORD will laugh at him; for he sees that his day is coming.
Psa.37.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- חרב: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- פתחו: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,pl
- רשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ודרכו: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,suff-3ms
- קשתם: NOUN,f,sg,suff-3mp
- להפיל: VERB,hiph,inf
- עני: ADJ,m,sg
- ואביון: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לטבוח: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- ישרי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- דרך: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Psalm 10:9-10 (verbal): Describes the wicked lying in wait and seizing the poor and needy—same motif of ambush and oppression of the helpless as in Ps 37:14.
- Isaiah 59:7-8 (thematic): Speaks of feet running to evil and hands shedding innocent blood; depicts widespread violence and injustice that parallels the wicked arming themselves to slay the upright.
- Micah 2:1-2 (thematic): Condemns those who devise evil, build towns by violence, and covet/drive away the poor—similar theme of the powerful exploiting and attacking the needy.
- Proverbs 1:11-16 (allusion): Warns of conspirators who lie in wait to shed blood and plunder victims—echoes the image of weapons and ambush used to harm the innocent in Ps 37:14.
Alternative generated candidates
- The wicked draw the sword and bend their bow to cast down the poor and needy, to slay those upright in way.
- The wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to bring down the poor and needy, to slay those whose way is upright.
Psa.37.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- חרבם: NOUN,f,sg,abs+3mp
- תבוא: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- בלבם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,pl
- וקשתותם: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,abs+3mp
- תשברנה: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,pl
Parallels
- Psalm 7:16 (thematic): Expresses the same idea of a wicked one's devices/retribution turning back on himself—mischief returning on his own head, parallel to enemies' weapons injuring them.
- Psalm 64:7-8 (verbal): Speaks of God shooting at the wicked with an arrow so that they are suddenly wounded; closely parallels the imagery of weapons (arrows/bows/swords) striking those who wield them.
- Job 20:24 (verbal): Describes flight from the iron weapon and being pierced by the bow—uses similar martial imagery of weapons bringing harm to their owner.
- Proverbs 26:27 (thematic): Proverbial theme of retaliation/reaping what one sows—'whoever digs a pit will fall into it' echoes the motif of a plot or weapon rebounding on its maker.
Alternative generated candidates
- Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken.
- Their sword will enter their own heart, and their bows will be broken.
Psa.37.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- מעט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לצדיק: PREP
- מהמון: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- רשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- רבים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Prov.16:8 (verbal): A near-verbatim proverb: ‘Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice,’ matching the valuation of a small share for the righteous over abundance for the wicked.
- Prov.15:16 (thematic): ‘Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble with it’—contrasts modest, God-fearing possession with large but troubling wealth, echoing Psalm 37:16’s preference for the righteous’ little.
- Prov.28:6 (thematic): ‘Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one of perverse ways though he be rich’—focuses on moral integrity over material abundance, a close ethical parallel to Psalm 37:16.
- Eccl.4:6 (thematic): ‘Better is a handful with quiet than two hands full with toil and a chasing after wind’—prefers modest, peaceful sustenance to greater gains accompanied by trouble, resonating with the psalm’s contrast.
Alternative generated candidates
- Better is a little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked.
- Better is a little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked.
Psa.37.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- זרועות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- רשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- תשברנה: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,pl
- וסומך: VERB,piel,ptc,3,m,sg
- צדיקים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Psalm 10:15 (verbal): Direct petition to 'break the arm of the wicked,' closely matching the image of the wicked's strength being broken in Ps 37:17.
- Psalm 37:15 (structural): Near-context within the same psalm—'their bows shall be broken' uses the same weapon/strength imagery and contrasts the fate of the wicked with the righteous.
- Isaiah 41:10 (verbal): God's promise 'I will uphold thee' (or 'I will uphold thee with my righteous right hand') parallels the assertion that 'the LORD upholdeth the righteous.'
- Psalm 145:14 (thematic): Declares that 'The LORD upholdeth all that fall'—a similar theme of God sustaining and supporting those in need/the righteous.
Alternative generated candidates
- For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the LORD sustains the righteous.
- For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous.
Psa.37.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- יודע: VERB,qal,ptc,ms,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ימי: NOUN,m,pl,cs
- תמימם: NOUN,m,pl,abs,3,m,pl-suff
- ונחלתם: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs,3,m,pl-suff
- לעולם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תהיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,f,sg
Parallels
- Ps.37:29 (verbal): Closely parallel wording and theme: the righteous will ‘inherit the land’ and ‘dwell in it forever,’ echoing ‘their inheritance will be forever.’
- Ps.37:25 (thematic): Affirms God’s ongoing care for the righteous across their days—‘I have not seen the righteous forsaken’—supporting the idea that the blameless’ days and provision are known and secured by the LORD.
- Ps.112:6 (thematic): Speaks of the stability and remembrance of the righteous (‘surely he will not be moved’ / ‘remembrance will be forever’), reinforcing the theme of enduring blessing/inheritance for the righteous.
- Gen.17:8 (structural): God’s covenant promise to Abraham of land as an ‘everlasting possession’ parallels the notion of a perpetual inheritance granted by the LORD.
- Ps.139:16 (allusion): God’s intimate knowledge of a person’s days (‘all the days ordained for me were written in your book’) echoes ‘the LORD knows the days of the blameless,’ emphasizing divine foreknowledge and care.
Alternative generated candidates
- The LORD knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will be forever.
- The LORD knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will be forever.
Psa.37.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לא: PART_NEG
- יבשו: VERB,qal,imprf,3,m,pl
- בעת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- רעה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ובימי: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- רעבון: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- ישבעו: VERB,qal,imprf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Proverbs 10:3 (verbal): Closely parallels the promise that the LORD will not allow the righteous to go hungry—similar wording and assurance against famine.
- Psalm 34:10 (thematic): Affirms that those who trust/seek the LORD will not lack good things or go hungry, echoing the security of the righteous in times of want.
- Psalm 37:25 (structural): Same psalm theme—personal testimony that the righteous are not forsaken nor left begging for bread, reinforcing v.19's promise.
- Psalm 145:15-16 (thematic): Speaks of God supplying food to all in due season and satisfying every living thing—a broader divine guarantee of provision in need.
Alternative generated candidates
- They shall not be ashamed in the time of evil, and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
- They shall not be put to shame in the time of evil, and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
Psa.37.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- רשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- יאבדו: VERB,qal,impf,3,mp
- ואיבי: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss1
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- כיקר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כרים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- כלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בעשן: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Psalm 1:4 (thematic): Both verses contrast the fate of the wicked with the righteous, depicting the wicked as transient—here 'like chaff which the wind drives away'—similar to Ps 37:20's image of the wicked perishing.
- Proverbs 10:25 (thematic): Uses the image of a sudden destructive force ('when the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more') to express the removal of the wicked, paralleling Ps 37:20's assurance that the wicked will perish.
- Isaiah 1:31 (verbal): Speaks of the strong becoming 'tinder' and burning—an image of consumption by fire that echoes the smoke/consumption language of Ps 37:20.
- Psalm 92:7 (thematic): Declares that though the wicked flourish for a time, they shall be ultimately destroyed—echoing Ps 37:20's promise that the enemies of the LORD will perish and vanish like smoke.
Alternative generated candidates
- But the wicked shall perish; the enemies of the LORD are like the glory of the meadows—they vanish; like smoke they vanish away.
- But the wicked will perish; the enemies of the LORD are like the glory of the pastures — they vanish; they vanish like smoke.
Psa.37.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לוה: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- רשע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולא: CONJ
- ישלם: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- וצדיק: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חונן: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- ונותן: CONJ+VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Ps.37.26 (verbal): Same psalm and closely related wording/theme: the righteous is described as merciful/lending and giving to others, echoing v.21’s contrast with the wicked who do not repay.
- Ps.112:5 (thematic): Declares that the one who deals generously and lends will be blessed—parallels the positive portrait of the righteous as giving in Ps.37:21.
- Prov.19:17 (allusion): Links generosity toward the poor with lending that is ultimately repaid by God, reflecting the moral contrast between generous/righteous and self‑serving/wicked conduct.
- 2 Cor.9:6–7 (thematic): New Testament teaching on giving—those who give generously reap blessing—echoes the contrast in Ps.37:21 between the generous righteous and the unrewarded borrowing wicked.
Alternative generated candidates
- The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous is generous and gives.
- The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives.
Psa.37.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- מברכיו: VERB,piel,ptc,3,m,pl
- יירשו: VERB,qal,impf,3,mp
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ומקלליו: CONJ+VERB,piel,ptc,3,m,pl
- יכרתו: VERB,niphal,imf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Psalm 37:9 (verbal): Closely related verse in the same psalm; repeats the contrast that evildoers are cut off while the meek/righteous inherit the land.
- Psalm 37:11 (verbal): Near-identical promise within the psalm: 'the meek shall inherit the land,' echoing the claim that the blessed inherit the land.
- Psalm 37:29 (verbal): Affirms and expands the same theme: 'the righteous shall inherit the land and dwell in it forever,' reinforcing inheritance as the destiny of the righteous.
- Matthew 5:5 (quotation): Jesus' Beatitude 'Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth' directly echoes the promise of Psalm 37 about the blessed/meek inheriting the land.
- Proverbs 2:21 (verbal): Parallel wisdom saying: 'For the upright will inhabit the land, and those with integrity will remain in it,' sharing the language and theme of the righteous inheriting and dwelling in the land.
Alternative generated candidates
- For those blessed by him shall inherit the land, but those cursed by him shall be cut off.
- For those whom he blesses shall inherit the land, but those he curses shall be cut off.
Psa.37.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- מיהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מצעדי: NOUN,m,pl,cns
- גבר: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- כוננו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ודרכו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss,3,m,sg
- יחפץ: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Prov.16.9 (verbal): Closely related wording and thought: human planning contrasted with the LORD directing/establishing a person’s steps (direct verbal parallel).
- Prov.20.24 (verbal): Explicitly states that a person’s steps are from the LORD—verbal/theological parallel about divine guidance of one’s path.
- Prov.3.6 (thematic): Commands acknowledgment of God so that He will direct your paths—same theological theme of God guiding and establishing the believer’s way.
- Ps.119.35 (thematic): Prayer to be led in God's path because the psalmist delights in it—connects the idea of delighting in one’s way with God's guidance and established steps.
Alternative generated candidates
- The steps of a man are established by the LORD; he delights in his way.
- The steps of a man are established by the LORD when he delights in his way.
Psa.37.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- יפל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לא: PART_NEG
- יוטל: VERB,niphal,impf,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- סומך: VERB,qal,part,3,m,sg
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Prov.24:16 (verbal): Both speak of the righteous falling repeatedly yet being restored ("a righteous man falleth seven times, and riseth up again"), echoing Psalm 37:24's assurance that a fall does not mean final ruin.
- Ps.145:14 (verbal): Uses the same saving/upholding motif—"The LORD upholdeth all that fall"—closely paralleling Psalm 37:24's image of God supporting the one who falls.
- Isa.41:13 (thematic): God's personal assistance is emphasized—"I will hold thy right hand"—reflecting Psalm 37:24's assurance that the LORD upholds the fallen with his hand.
- 2 Cor.4:9 (thematic): Paul's paradoxical language ("persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed") echoes the same theological theme: suffering or falling does not lead to ultimate abandonment or ruin, as in Psalm 37:24.
Alternative generated candidates
- When he falls he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds his hand.
- Though he stumble, he shall not fall headlong, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
Psa.37.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- נער: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הייתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,sg
- גם: ADV
- זקנתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,f,sg
- ולא: CONJ
- ראיתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- צדיק: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נעזב: VERB,nip,ptc,pass,3,m,sg
- וזרעו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs+prsuf:3,m,sg
- מבקש: VERB,qal,ptc,ms,sg
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Psalm 37:26 (structural): Immediate continuation in the same psalm: describes the righteous as merciful and that his children are blessed—complements 37:25's claim that the righteous are not forsaken and their offspring lack not bread.
- Psalm 37:18 (thematic): Same psalm theme: God’s care for the upright and their enduring inheritance (the LORD 'knows the days of the upright'), reinforcing the assurance that the righteous are not abandoned.
- Psalm 34:10 (thematic): 'Those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing' echoes the promise that God provides for the godly, paralleling the observation that the righteous and their children are not left begging.
- Proverbs 10:3 (verbal): Proverbial parallel: 'The LORD will not allow the righteous to hunger,' a close verbal/thematic affirmation that the righteous are preserved from destitution.
- Matthew 6:31–33 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching about not being anxious because the Father knows our needs and provides (seek first God's kingdom and your needs will be supplied) parallels the psalm’s trust-language about God’s provision for the righteous.
Alternative generated candidates
- I was young and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his children begging bread.
- I have been young and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging bread.
Psa.37.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כל: DET
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- חונן: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- ומלוה: CONJ+VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- וזרעו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs+prsuf:3,m,sg
- לברכה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Psalm 112:5 (verbal): Very close wording and idea: the righteous is gracious and lends, and receives blessing — almost a parallel proverb about generosity and its reward.
- Proverbs 19:17 (thematic): Connects generosity/lending to the poor with divine favor — 'whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD,' echoing the moral/ethical valuation of lending in Ps 37:26.
- Proverbs 22:9 (thematic): Links a generous disposition with blessing ('He who has a generous eye will be blessed'), paralleling Ps 37:26’s coupling of giving and blessing.
- 2 Corinthians 9:10 (verbal): Uses agricultural imagery of 'seed' and God's provision to multiply the giver’s seed — resonates with Ps 37:26’s reference to the righteous’ seed being blessed.
- Luke 6:38 (thematic): New Testament teaching that giving results in receiving ('Give, and it will be given to you') parallels the cause-effect between generosity/lending and blessing found in Ps 37:26.
Alternative generated candidates
- All day long he shows mercy and lends; his offspring are blessed.
- All day long the righteous shows mercy and lends; his offspring shall be blessed.
Psa.37.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- סור: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- מרע: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועשה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ושכן: CONJ+VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לעולם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Ps.34:14 (verbal): Uses the same command, 'Turn from evil and do good,' with the closely related exhortation to seek and pursue peace—near-verbal parallel.
- 1 Pet.3:11 (quotation): Peter explicitly quotes the wording of Psalm 34:14 ('turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it'), echoing the same moral imperative found in Ps 37:27.
- Rom.12:9 (thematic): 'Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good' expresses the same ethical call to reject evil and embrace good.
- Isa.1:16-17 (thematic): Calls to 'cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice'—a prophetic parallel urging abandonment of evil and active practice of righteousness.
- Ps.37:29 (structural): Immediate psalmic parallel: the promise that the righteous 'shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever' echoes Ps 37:27's concluding promise of dwelling forever for those who do good.
Alternative generated candidates
- Turn away from evil and do good; so you will dwell forever.
- Turn away from evil and do good; so you will dwell forever.
Psa.37.28 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אהב: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- משפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולא: CONJ
- יעזב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- חסידיו: NOUN,m,pl,abs,poss3ms
- לעולם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נשמרו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,pl
- וזרע: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- נכרת: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 94:14 (verbal): Uses similar language about God not abandoning his people/heritage—'For the LORD will not cast off his people,' echoing 'the LORD ... will not forsake his saints.'
- Psalm 37:25 (structural): Within the same psalm the poet states he has not seen the righteous forsaken—reinforces the claim that God preserves the faithful and does not abandon them.
- Psalm 11:7 (thematic): Affirms God's love of righteousness/justice ('For the LORD is righteous, he loves righteous deeds') paralleling 'The LORD loves justice' and the reward of the upright.
- Proverbs 12:7 (thematic): Contrasts the fate of wicked and righteous—'The wicked are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous will stand,' echoing the preservation of the righteous and the cutting off of the wicked's line.
Alternative generated candidates
- For the LORD loves justice; he will not forsake his faithful ones. They are preserved forever, but the offspring of the wicked shall be cut off.
- For the LORD loves justice; he will not forsake his saints. They are kept forever, but the offspring of the wicked shall be cut off.
Psa.37.29 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- צדיקים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- יירשו: VERB,qal,impf,3,mp
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- וישכנו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לעד: ADV
- עליה: PREP,3,f,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 37:11 (verbal): Uses the closely related promise that the meek/righteous will inherit the land—near‑identical theme and wording within the same psalm.
- Proverbs 2:21-22 (verbal): Speaks of the upright dwelling in the land and the wicked being cut off—very similar language and idea of righteous inhabitants remaining in the land.
- Matthew 5:5 (allusion): Jesus’ beatitude 'Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth' echoes the psalmic promise of the righteous inheriting the land.
- Genesis 17:8 (thematic): God’s covenantal grant of the land to Abraham and his descendants as an everlasting possession parallels the theme of the righteous inheriting and dwelling in the land.
- Isaiah 60:21 (thematic): Foretells that God’s people will be righteous and possess the land forever—reflects the eschatological extension of the psalm’s promise.
Alternative generated candidates
- The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell in it forever.
- The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell in it forever.
Psa.37.30 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- פי: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- צדיק: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהגה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- חכמה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ולשונו: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- תדבר: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- משפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 10:31 (verbal): Almost identical phrasing: 'The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom'—a direct verbal parallel contrasting righteous speech with the perverse tongue.
- Proverbs 31:26 (verbal): 'She opens her mouth with wisdom; kindly instruction is on her tongue'—a close verbal and thematic parallel linking righteous/worthy speech with wisdom and instruction.
- Proverbs 12:17 (thematic): 'He who speaks truth tells what is right'—connects the theme of truthful, just speech to the character of the righteous speaker.
- Isaiah 11:2-4 (thematic): Portrays wisdom and righteous judgment (the Spirit guiding justice); thematically relates inner wisdom and just speech/decision characteristic of a righteous figure.
Alternative generated candidates
- The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice.
- The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks what is right.
Psa.37.31 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- תורת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- אלהיו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- בלבו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- לא: PART_NEG
- תמעד: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- אשריו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+3ms
Parallels
- Psalm 119:11 (verbal): Both verses state that God’s word/law is kept in the heart as an inward possession that governs conduct (’thy word I have hid in my heart’ ≈ ’the law of his God is in his heart’).
- Psalm 40:8 (verbal): Close verbal parallel: the psalmist declares delight in doing God’s will because ‘thy law is within my heart,’ echoing the same idea of inwardized Torah in Psalm 37:31.
- Jeremiah 31:33 (allusion): God’s promise to ‘put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts’ provides the prophetic background for the motif of law written on the heart found in Psalm 37:31.
- Deuteronomy 6:6 (thematic): Mosaic instruction that ‘these words… shall be in thine heart’ echoes the covenantal expectation that God’s teaching be internalized, a theme reflected in Psalm 37:31.
- Psalm 37:23 (structural): Nearby verse linking divine guidance and stability of life—’the steps of a man are established by the LORD’—connects to Psalm 37:31’s promise that one whose God’s law is in his heart ‘shall not be moved.’
Alternative generated candidates
- The law of his God is in his heart; his steps will not slip.
- The law of his God is in his heart; his steps will not slip.
Psa.37.32 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- צופה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רשע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לצדיק: PREP
- ומבקש: CONJ+VERB,pi'el,ptc,3,m,sg
- להמיתו: INF,hiphil,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 35:7-8 (thematic): Enemies “hide a net” and “dig a pit” for the psalmist’s life—imagery of secret ambush and intent to kill, paralleling wicked lying in wait for the righteous.
- Psalm 10:8-9 (thematic): The wicked lie in wait like a lion in his covert to seize the helpless—similar language of secret watching and plotting harm against the innocent.
- Psalm 57:6 (thematic): “They have prepared a net for my steps; they have dug a pit” — another psalmic portrayal of adversaries’ ambush comparable to seeking to slay the righteous.
- Matthew 26:3-4 (thematic): The chief priests and elders conspire to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill him—an NT instance of enemies plotting the death of a righteous person, echoing the Psalm’s theme.
Alternative generated candidates
- The wicked watches the righteous and seeks to put him to death.
- The wicked watches the righteous and seeks to put him to death.
Psa.37.33 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- יעזבנו: VERB,qal,impf,juss,3,m,sg,1,pl,obj
- בידו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- ולא: CONJ
- ירשיענו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בהשפטו: PREP
Parallels
- Ps.37.28 (verbal): Earlier verse in the same psalm: 'The LORD loves justice; he will not forsake his saints'—directly echoes the promise that God will not abandon or condemn the righteous.
- Ps.94.14 (verbal): 'For the LORD will not cast off his people, nor will he forsake his inheritance.' Similar wording about God not abandoning his people in the face of oppression.
- Deut.31.6 (quotation): 'I will not leave you or forsake you.' Mosaic assurance of God's abiding presence; the same tradition of divine non‑abandonment underlies Psalm 37:33.
- Heb.13.5 (quotation): 'For he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”' New Testament citation of the same promise, applied to believers and linked to the theme that God will not abandon or condemn them.
- Isa.41.10 (thematic): 'I will uphold you... I will help you.' Thematic parallel of divine presence and deliverance—God's protection from enemies and fear, akin to not being handed over or condemned.
Alternative generated candidates
- The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor will he condemn him when he is judged.
- The LORD will not abandon him to his hand, nor will he condemn him when he is judged.
Psa.37.34 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- קוה: VERB,qal,impv,2,ms
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ושמר: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- דרכו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- וירוממך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg+obj,2,m,sg
- לרשת: VERB,qal,inf
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בהכרת: PREP
- רשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- תראה: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 37:3 (verbal): Both verses command trust in the LORD and link that trust with dwelling in/receiving the land — a close verbal and thematic parallel to 'hope in the LORD' and inheriting the land.
- Psalm 37:5 (verbal): 'Commit/keep your way to the LORD' echoes the imperative to 'keep his way' here, and both promise divine action on the believer's behalf.
- Psalm 37:11 (thematic): Shares the central promise that the humble/meek will inherit the land — same covenantal hope underlying the exaltation and inheritance language in v.34.
- Matthew 5:5 (allusion): Jesus' beatitude 'Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth' echoes the Psalm's promise of inheriting the land, applying the same hope in a New Testament context.
- Psalm 37:22 (verbal): Directly parallels the dual ideas of blessing/inheritance and the cutting off of the wicked — similar wording about those who 'inherit the land' and the fate of the wicked.
Alternative generated candidates
- Wait for the LORD and keep his way; he will exalt you to inherit the land. You will look on when the wicked are cut off.
- Wait for the LORD, keep his way, and he will exalt you to inherit the land; you will behold when the wicked are cut off.
Psa.37.35 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ראיתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- רשע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עריץ: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומתערה: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- כאזרח: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רענן: ADJ,m,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 73:3 (thematic): The psalmist confesses envy when he 'saw the prosperity of the wicked,' paralleling the observation here of the wicked in great power.
- Job 21:7 (thematic): Job rhetorically asks why the wicked live and grow mighty, echoing the wonder at the apparent success and flourishing of the wicked.
- Jeremiah 12:1 (thematic): Jeremiah questions God about the prosperity of the wicked—'Why does the way of the wicked prosper?'—a thematic parallel to seeing the wicked flourishing.
- Psalm 92:7 (verbal): Uses similar imagery of the wicked 'flourishing' (springing up like grass) yet ultimately contrasted with their end, paralleling the 'green' flourishing image in Ps 37:35.
Alternative generated candidates
- I have seen the wicked in great power, spreading himself like a flourishing green tree.
- I have seen the wicked in great power, flourishing like a green tree in its native soil.
Psa.37.36 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- והנה: ADV
- איננו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl,neg
- ואבקשהו: VERB,qal,imperf,1,sg
- ולא: CONJ
- נמצא: VERB,nip,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Job 20:5–11 (thematic): Zophar’s speech emphasizes the short-lived triumph of the wicked and the consuming of their power—parallels Ps 37:36’s observation that the prosperous wicked ‘passed away’ and could not be found.
- Psalm 73:18–20 (thematic): Asa’s psalm describes the wicked being suddenly brought to desolation and vanishing like a dream, echoing the sudden disappearance and loss of the wicked’s presence in Ps 37:36.
- Proverbs 10:30 (thematic): Proverbs affirms that the righteous endure while the wicked will not remain—this contrast underlies Ps 37:36’s claim that the once-flourishing wicked are no longer found.
- Psalm 49:17–20 (thematic): Speaks of the ultimate end and perishability of the proud/wicked—‘he shall be like the beasts that perish’ resonates with the image of someone who ‘passed away… and I sought him, but he could not be found.’
Alternative generated candidates
- But he passed away, and behold, he was no more; I sought him, but he could not be found.
- But when I passed by, behold, he was no more; I searched for him, but he could not be found.
Psa.37.37 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- שמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- תם: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- וראה: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- ישר: ADJ,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- אחרית: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שלום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 2:21-22 (thematic): Both passages affirm the ultimate fate of the upright/blameless: the righteous remain/inhabit (securely) while the wicked are cut off—echoing 'the end of that man is peace.'
- Isaiah 57:2 (verbal): Isaiah says the upright 'enter into peace' and 'rest'—language closely paralleling Psalm 37:37's assurance that the upright person's end is peace.
- Proverbs 28:18 (thematic): Proverbs links walking blamelessly with being saved/secure, paralleling Psalm 37:37’s promise of a peaceful outcome for the blameless.
- Psalm 1:5-6 (structural): Psalm 1 contrasts the destinies of the wicked and the righteous and affirms the preservation of the righteous—structurally and thematically comparable to Psalm 37:37’s contrast and assurance of peace for the upright.
Alternative generated candidates
- Consider the blameless and behold the upright; for the end of that man is peace.
- Mark the blameless and behold the upright, for there is a future for the man of peace.
Psa.37.38 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ופשעים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- נשמדו: VERB,nip,perf,3,m,pl
- יחדו: ADV
- אחרית: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- רשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- נכרתה: VERB,niphal,perf,3,f,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 37:9 (verbal): Same psalm: repeats the formula that evildoers/ungodly will be cut off, echoing the fate of the wicked described in 37:38.
- Psalm 37:28 (verbal): Closely related language—contrast between God's preservation of the righteous and the cutting off of the wicked's seed (’cut off’ imagery).
- Proverbs 2:22 (verbal): Uses parallel terminology: the wicked are ‘cut off’/‘rooted out’ from the land—same consequence language for transgressors.
- Psalm 145:20 (thematic): Affirms the same theological theme: God preserves those who love him but will destroy all the wicked.
- Malachi 4:1 (thematic): Describes the ultimate coming judgment when the wicked are burned up/consumed—parallel eschatological outcome of the wicked's end.
Alternative generated candidates
- But transgressors shall be destroyed together; the future of the wicked is cut off.
- But transgressors shall be altogether destroyed; the future of the wicked is cut off.
Psa.37.39 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ותשועת: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,cons
- צדיקים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מיהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מעוזם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,pl
- בעת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- צרה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Psalm 34:17 (thematic): Both affirm that when the righteous cry out the LORD hears and delivers them from their troubles—salvation/deliverance for the righteous in times of distress.
- Psalm 46:1 (thematic): Describes God as a refuge and strength, a present help in trouble, paralleling the idea of the LORD as a stronghold in times of distress.
- Proverbs 18:10 (verbal): Uses the imagery of the LORD’s name as a ‘strong tower’/refuge to which the righteous run and are safe, echoing the ‘stronghold’ language of Psalm 37:39.
- Nahum 1:7 (verbal): Explicitly calls the LORD a stronghold in the day of trouble and notes his care for those who take refuge in him—a close verbal/structural parallel.
- Psalm 9:9 (thematic): Speaks of the LORD as a refuge and stronghold for the oppressed in times of trouble, echoing the same theme of divine protection for the righteous.
Alternative generated candidates
- The salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
- The salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
Psa.37.40 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעזרם: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ויפלטם: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- יפלטם: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- מרשעים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויושיעם: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- חסו: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,pl
- בו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Psalm 37:39 (structural): Immediate parallel in the same psalm: earlier verse affirms that the salvation/strength of the righteous comes from the LORD in times of trouble, echoing the deliverance language of v.40.
- Psalm 34:19 (verbal): Both verses state that the LORD rescues the righteous from many troubles/their afflictions—similar verbal theme of God delivering the suffering righteous.
- Psalm 18:19 (2 Sam.22:20) (thematic): Describes God bringing the psalmist forth and delivering him because He delighted in him—parallels the idea that God rescues those who take refuge in Him.
- Psalm 91:14–16 (allusion): God’s promise to deliver, answer, and protect those who love and call on Him parallels Ps.37:40’s assurance that the LORD will help and save those who trust in Him.
- Nahum 1:7 (thematic): ‘The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble; He cares for those who take refuge in Him’ closely mirrors Ps.37:40’s link between taking refuge in God and receiving deliverance.
Alternative generated candidates
- The LORD helps them and delivers them; he rescues them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.
- The LORD helps them and delivers them; he rescues them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.
Do not fret because of evildoers; do not be jealous of those who do wrong.
For they will soon fade like the grass, and wither like the green herb.
Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and be faithful.
Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act.
He will make your righteousness shine forth like the light and your justice like the noonday.
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when one prospers in his way, when a man carries out evil schemes.
Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only brings harm.
For the wicked shall be cut off; but those who wait for the LORD shall inherit the land.
A little while and the wicked will be no more; you will look for his place, and he will not be there. But the meek shall inherit the land and shall delight in abundant peace.
The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at him.
The LORD laughs at him, for he sees that his day is coming.
The wicked draw the sword and bend their bow to bring down the poor and needy, to slaughter those whose way is upright.
Their sword shall enter their own heart, and their bows shall be broken.
Better is the little that the righteous has than the abundance of many wicked.
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous.
The LORD knows the days of the blameless; their heritage shall be forever.
They shall not be ashamed in the evil time, and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. But the wicked shall perish; the enemies of the LORD are like the glory of the pastures—they vanish; like smoke they vanish away.
The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous is gracious and gives.
For those whom the LORD blesses shall inherit the land, but those he curses shall be cut off.
The steps of a man are established by the LORD; when he delights in his way he makes it firm.
Though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
I was young and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging bread.
He is ever merciful and lends; his children are a blessing.
Turn away from evil and do good; dwell forevermore.
For the LORD loves justice and will not forsake his faithful ones; they are guarded forever, but the offspring of the wicked shall be cut off.
The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell upon it forever.
The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice.
The law of his God is in his heart; his steps will not falter.
The wicked watches the righteous and seeks to put him to death.
The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.
Wait for the LORD and keep his way; he will exalt you to inherit the land, and you will look on when the wicked are cut off.
I have seen the wicked in great power, spreading himself like a luxuriant green tree. But when I passed by, behold, he was no more; I searched for him, and he could not be found.
Mark the blameless and behold the upright; for the end of that man is peace. But transgressors shall be altogether destroyed—the future of the wicked is cut off.
The salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; he is their stronghold in time of trouble.
The LORD helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.