Psalms 149:7 Meaning and Explanation
“To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The saints will carry out God's judgment against nations that oppose His rule.
The Context of Psalms 149:7
A statement of the saints' role in carrying out God's judgment against nations hostile to His covenant.
What Does Psalms 149:7 Mean?
'Vengeance' here belongs to God, executed through His people. In the Old Testament, when Israel acted as God's agent of judgment, they were enacting divine justice against rebellion and idolatry. The 'heathen' and 'people' refers to those outside God's covenant who practice idolatry or injustice.
This language reflects the historical pattern in which Israel was called to possess the land and remove idolatrous nations. The perspective is corporate and covenantal: God's people act to uphold His reign and remove obstacles to His kingship. This is not personal vengeance but the execution of divine law.
Psalms 149:7 in the Original Language
vengeance (נקמה niqmâh) — requital, retribution; the idea is repayment of wrong, not personal anger but justice
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 149:7
What does Psalms 149:7 mean?
The saints will carry out God's judgment against nations that oppose His rule.
What is the context of Psalms 149:7?
A statement of the saints' role in carrying out God's judgment against nations hostile to His covenant.