Psalm 17:10 Meaning and Explanation
“They are enclosed in their own fat: with their mouth they speak proudly.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of Psalm 17:10
Psalm 17:10 shifts focus from the psalmist to the character of his enemies. 'They are enclosed in their own fat' uses a visceral image: 'fat' here may mean prosperity, comfort, or spiritual insensitivity, a hardened, thickened state that makes them impervious to appeal or conscience. Being 'enclosed' suggests they are sealed in, trapped within their own self-satisfaction and indifference. This describes a dangerous state rather than poverty or suffering: people whose comfort and self-assurance have calcified their hearts, making them incapable of mercy or truth.
What Does Psalm 17:10 Mean?
Psalm 17:10 shifts focus from the psalmist to the character of his enemies. 'They are enclosed in their own fat' uses a visceral image: 'fat' here may mean prosperity, comfort, or spiritual insensitivity, a hardened, thickened state that makes them impervious to appeal or conscience. Being 'enclosed' suggests they are sealed in, trapped within their own self-satisfaction and indifference. This describes a dangerous state rather than poverty or suffering: people whose comfort and self-assurance have calcified their hearts, making them incapable of mercy or truth.
The second line sharpens the portrait: 'with their mouth they speak proudly.' Their words are arrogant, boastful, loud. The connection between their inner hardness and their outer speech shows that their cruelty flows from a deep condition of spiritual insensitivity and self-exaltation. These enemies are strong and confident in their own words, far from weak or threatened. Their very arrogance and enclosure show why the psalmist cannot appeal to their mercy: they are beyond reach of such appeal. This is why he must turn entirely to God for protection.
Psalm 17:10 in the Original Language
The image of being 'enclosed in fat' suggests hardness, obstinacy, and spiritual blindness resulting from comfort and self-satisfaction.
Bible Verses Related to Psalm 17:10
How to Apply Psalm 17:10 Today
Don't let comfort or success harden your heart to the needs or suffering of others. Guard against the spiritual insensitivity that comes from self-satisfaction and pride.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalm 17:10
What does Psalm 17:10 mean?
Psalm 17:10 shifts focus from the psalmist to the character of his enemies. 'They are enclosed in their own fat' uses a visceral image: 'fat' here may mean prosperity, comfort, or spiritual insensitivity, a hardened, thickened state that makes them impervious to appeal or conscience. Being 'enclosed' suggests they are sealed in, trapped within their own self-satisfaction and indifference. This describes a dangerous state rather than poverty or suffering: people whose comfort and self-assurance have calcified their hearts, making them incapable of mercy or truth.
What is the context of Psalm 17:10?
Psalm 17:10 shifts focus from the psalmist to the character of his enemies. 'They are enclosed in their own fat' uses a visceral image: 'fat' here may mean prosperity, comfort, or spiritual insensitivity, a hardened, thickened state that makes them impervious to appeal or conscience. Being 'enclosed' suggests they are sealed in, trapped within their own self-satisfaction and indifference. This describes a dangerous state rather than poverty or suffering: people whose comfort and self-assurance have calcified their hearts, making them incapable of mercy or truth.
How can I apply Psalm 17:10 today?
Don't let comfort or success harden your heart to the needs or suffering of others. Guard against the spiritual insensitivity that comes from self-satisfaction and pride.