Romans 12:19 Meaning and Explanation
“Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Believers must not take revenge but leave all judgment to God, who has promised to repay.
What Does Romans 12:19 Mean?
With great tenderness, calling them dearly beloved, Paul forbids personal revenge and gives the reason. To give place unto wrath is to step aside and let God's justice, not ours, deal with the wrong. He anchors the command in Scripture's own words: vengeance belongs to the Lord.
This is not indifference to injustice but trust in a better Judge. God sees what we cannot and will set every wrong right in His time and way. Released from the burden of repaying, the believer is freed to love. Knowing that justice rests in God's righteous hands, the wronged heart can let go of the sword and wait on Him.
Romans 12:19 in the Original Language
ekdikesis (ἐκδίκησις), 'vengeance' -- the full execution of justice, here reserved to God alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 12:19
What does Romans 12:19 mean?
Believers must not take revenge but leave all judgment to God, who has promised to repay.