Psalm 11:6

On the wicked He will rain down fiery coals and sulfur; a scorching wind will be their portion.

Study Bible

On the wicked
The term "wicked" in Hebrew is "רְשָׁעִים" (resha'im), which refers to those who are morally wrong, guilty, or hostile towards God. In the biblical context, the wicked are those who live in opposition to God's laws and righteousness. Historically, the wicked have been seen as those who reject God's covenant and live in rebellion against His will. This phrase sets the stage for the divine judgment that follows, emphasizing the moral and spiritual state of those who are opposed to God.

He will rain coals
The imagery of raining coals is reminiscent of divine judgment, similar to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. In Hebrew, "coals" (פַּחֲמֵי) can symbolize intense heat and purification. This phrase suggests a powerful and consuming judgment from God, indicating that the wicked will face severe consequences for their actions. The use of "rain" implies an overwhelming and inescapable judgment, as rain covers everything it falls upon.

fire and brimstone
"Fire and brimstone" are often associated with God's wrath and judgment in the Bible. The Hebrew word for "fire" (אֵשׁ, esh) and "brimstone" (גָּפְרִית, gophrith) together evoke the image of a consuming and purifying force. Historically, brimstone, or sulfur, was known for its burning properties and was used to describe the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. This phrase underscores the severity and totality of God's judgment against the wicked, serving as a warning of the consequences of sin.

and a scorching wind
The "scorching wind" (רוּחַ זַלְעָפָה, ruach zal'aphah) can be understood as a hot, destructive wind, often associated with desolation and ruin. In the ancient Near East, such winds were feared for their ability to destroy crops and cause devastation. This phrase adds to the imagery of divine judgment, suggesting that the wicked will experience not only fire and brimstone but also a relentless and consuming force that leaves nothing untouched.

will be the portion of their cup
The "portion of their cup" (כּוֹסָם, kosam) is a metaphor for one's lot or destiny. In biblical times, the cup was often used as a symbol of one's fate or experience, whether it be blessing or judgment. Here, the cup represents the inevitable outcome of the wicked's actions—a destiny filled with divine wrath and retribution. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder that the choices and actions of the wicked lead to a predetermined and just end, as ordained by God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Wicked
This term refers to those who live in opposition to God's will and righteousness. In the context of Psalm 11, the wicked are those who threaten the righteous and undermine justice.

2. God
The sovereign judge who administers justice. In this verse, God is depicted as the one who will execute judgment on the wicked.

3. Fiery Coals and Sulfur
These elements symbolize divine judgment and destruction, reminiscent of the judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah.

4. Scorching Wind
Represents the harsh and consuming nature of God's judgment against the wicked.

5. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of this Psalm, David often wrote about the contrast between the righteous and the wicked, seeking God's justice.

Teaching Points

God's Justice is Certain
The imagery of fiery coals and sulfur assures believers that God will ultimately judge the wicked. This should encourage us to trust in His justice, even when it seems delayed.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
The vivid descriptions serve as a sobering reminder of the reality of God's judgment. It calls us to examine our lives and ensure we are living in alignment with God's will.

The Protection of the Righteous
While the wicked face judgment, the righteous can find comfort in God's protection and justice. This should motivate us to pursue righteousness and trust in God's deliverance.

Call to Repentance
Understanding the severity of God's judgment should lead us to repentance and a desire to share the gospel with others, warning them of the consequences of wickedness.

Hope in God's Sovereignty
Despite the presence of evil, believers can have hope knowing that God is sovereign and will ultimately set things right.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of fiery coals and sulfur in Psalm 11:6 help us understand the seriousness of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does the account of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 parallel the message of Psalm 11:6?

3. How can the certainty of God's judgment on the wicked provide comfort to believers facing injustice today?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are living righteously in light of the warnings found in Psalm 11:6?

5. How does the concept of divine judgment in Psalm 11:6 connect with the final judgment described in Revelation 21, and what implications does this have for our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah with sulfur and fire from the Lord serves as a historical example of divine judgment, similar to the imagery in Psalm 11:6.

Revelation 21
The final judgment and the lake of fire as the ultimate destiny for the wicked, echoing the themes of divine retribution found in Psalm 11:6.

Isaiah 30
The imagery of a scorching wind as a tool of God's judgment is also found here, emphasizing the consistency of God's justice throughout Scripture.