Psalms 37:14 Meaning and Explanation
“The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The wicked arm themselves to attack the vulnerable and the righteous.
The Context of Psalms 37:14
The violent threat the wicked pose to the vulnerable and the righteous.
What Does Psalms 37:14 Mean?
The drawn sword and bent bow are instruments of lethal intent. The wicked do not merely wish harm; they arm themselves and prepare. The targets are 'the poor and needy' and 'such as be of upright conversation'—the vulnerable and the faithful. This detail shows the wicked's cowardice: they attack those without power to retaliate.
This verse articulates the real suffering of the righteous. They are not merely criticized or ignored; they face violence and death. The psalm does not minimize this threat but acknowledges it directly, making the later promise of divine protection more meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 37:14
What does Psalms 37:14 mean?
The wicked arm themselves to attack the vulnerable and the righteous.
What is the context of Psalms 37:14?
The violent threat the wicked pose to the vulnerable and the righteous.