Psalms 9:20 Meaning and Explanation
“Put them in fear, O LORD: that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist asks God to strike fear into the wicked so nations recognize their own human limitation.
The Context of Psalms 9:20
Prayer that God will humble the proud by making them fear His greatness.
What Does Psalms 9:20 Mean?
'Put them in fear' means make them afraid—not mere anxiety but awe-struck awareness that God is greater than they are. The wicked often act as though they are untouchable; fear helps them understand reality: God is powerful and their defiance is futile.
'That the nations may know themselves to be but men' reveals the purpose of the fear. The godless often act as though they are gods themselves—all-powerful, answerable to none. Fear of the LORD restores proper perspective: they are finite, limited mortals who must answer to the Almighty.
Psalms 9:20 in the Original Language
fear (יִרְאוּ, yirau) — to fear, be afraid; also to reverence or respect; implies both the emotion of fear and the recognition of God's supreme power and authority.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 9:20
What does Psalms 9:20 mean?
The psalmist asks God to strike fear into the wicked so nations recognize their own human limitation.
What is the context of Psalms 9:20?
Prayer that God will humble the proud by making them fear His greatness.