Psalm 17:12 Meaning and Explanation
“Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey, and as it were a young lion lurking in secret places.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of Psalm 17:12
Psalm 17:12 moves from describing the enemies' hardness and attentiveness to describing them as predators. 'Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey' evokes the most fearsome beast of ancient Near Eastern creation: a creature of raw power and hunger, focused entirely on satisfying its appetite. 'And as it were a young lion lurking in secret places' adds a layer of cunning to the raw power. The young lion stays hidden rather than out in the open, waiting in darkness or cover, ready to spring. This is a predator at full intensity: powerful, hungry, cunning, and patient.
What Does Psalm 17:12 Mean?
Psalm 17:12 moves from describing the enemies' hardness and attentiveness to describing them as predators. 'Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey' evokes the most fearsome beast of ancient Near Eastern creation: a creature of raw power and hunger, focused entirely on satisfying its appetite. 'And as it were a young lion lurking in secret places' adds a layer of cunning to the raw power. The young lion stays hidden rather than out in the open, waiting in darkness or cover, ready to spring. This is a predator at full intensity: powerful, hungry, cunning, and patient.
The comparison to beasts elevates the danger while also placing the enemies outside the realm of reason and mercy. A lion cannot be reasoned with or appealed to; it can only be stopped by superior force or divine protection. By describing his enemies as predators, the psalmist is describing the reality of their threat rather than dehumanizing them out of anger. These are creatures driven by hostile intent, not people open to negotiation, and they wait for the right moment to attack. This reinforces why the psalmist's only recourse is God's protection: no human negotiation or self-defense can stand against such focused, predatory hostility.
Psalm 17:12 in the Original Language
The lion metaphor is one of the most powerful in Scripture for describing raw, overwhelming power and danger that cannot be countered by human strength alone.
Bible Verses Related to Psalm 17:12
How to Apply Psalm 17:12 Today
When you face enemies more powerful than yourself, don't attempt to overcome them through force or cunning. Trust God to be your strength and your shield.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalm 17:12
What does Psalm 17:12 mean?
Psalm 17:12 moves from describing the enemies' hardness and attentiveness to describing them as predators. 'Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey' evokes the most fearsome beast of ancient Near Eastern creation: a creature of raw power and hunger, focused entirely on satisfying its appetite. 'And as it were a young lion lurking in secret places' adds a layer of cunning to the raw power. The young lion stays hidden rather than out in the open, waiting in darkness or cover, ready to spring. This is a predator at full intensity: powerful, hungry, cunning, and patient.
What is the context of Psalm 17:12?
Psalm 17:12 moves from describing the enemies' hardness and attentiveness to describing them as predators. 'Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey' evokes the most fearsome beast of ancient Near Eastern creation: a creature of raw power and hunger, focused entirely on satisfying its appetite. 'And as it were a young lion lurking in secret places' adds a layer of cunning to the raw power. The young lion stays hidden rather than out in the open, waiting in darkness or cover, ready to spring. This is a predator at full intensity: powerful, hungry, cunning, and patient.
How can I apply Psalm 17:12 today?
When you face enemies more powerful than yourself, don't attempt to overcome them through force or cunning. Trust God to be your strength and your shield.