◄ Psalm 36 ►
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The Transgression of the Wicked For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David, the servant of the LORD. 1 An oracle is in my heart regarding the transgression of the wicked man: There is no fear of God before his eyes.a 2For his eyes are too full of conceit to detect or hate his own sin. 3The words of his mouth are wicked and deceitful; he has ceased to be wise and well-doing. 4Even on his bed he plots wickedness; he sets himself on a path that is not good; he fails to reject evil. 5Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds. 6Your righteousness is like the highest mountains; Your judgments are like the deepest sea. O LORD, You preserve man and beast. 7How precious is Your loving devotion, O God, that the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings! 8They feast on the abundance of Your house, and You give them drink from Your river of delights. 9For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light. 10Extend Your loving devotion to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart. 11Let not the foot of the proud come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away. 12There the evildoers lie fallen, thrown down and unable to rise. Footnotes: 1 a Cited in Romans 3:18 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 36 Summary The Transgression of the Wicked Verses 1–4 – Portrait of the Wicked David observes an inner “oracle” that exposes how the wicked think and live. They have no fear of God, flatter themselves, speak deceit, and plan evil even while lying in bed. Their path is deliberately set against good, and they refuse to reject evil. Verses 5–9 – Magnitude of God’s Covenant Love In stark contrast, God’s loyal love rises to the heavens, His faithfulness to the clouds. His righteousness towers like the mountains, and His judgments are as deep as the sea. He preserves both humanity and animals. All who seek Him find shelter under His wings, feast on His abundance, drink from His river of delights, and discover that He is the very fountain of life—the light by which they see. Verses 10–12 – Prayer for Ongoing Mercy and Victory David asks the LORD to keep pouring out steadfast love on those who know Him and righteousness on the upright. He prays for protection from proud and wicked oppressors, foreseeing their ultimate downfall: “See how the evildoers lie fallen, cast down, unable to rise!” Psalm 36, penned by David, is a profound reflection on the stark contrast between the depravity of the wicked and the overflowing love and righteousness of God. The psalm journeys through the sinfulness of man, the righteousness and justice of God, His eternal love, and His providential care, providing both a sobering warning and a comforting promise. Authorship and Setting • Superscription: “For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David the servant of the LORD.” The double description (king and “servant”) places David as both ruler and worshiper. • Likely composed during a period of court intrigue or personal threat, when David was confronted by scheming enemies (cf. 1 Samuel 24–26). • Temple worship leaders later used the psalm, so it speaks to both private and congregational devotion. Structure and Flow 1. Verses 1–4: Diagnostic section—what life looks like without the fear of God. 2. Verses 5–9: Doxological section—celebration of God’s character and care. 3. Verses 10–12: Supplicatory section—personal and communal petition. This three-part movement creates a sharp contrast: human rebellion, divine perfection, then a heartfelt response. Key Hebrew Words • ḥesed (v. 5, 7, 10): Loyal, covenant love; steady kindness that never quits (cf. Exodus 34:6). • ṣedeq (v. 6, 10): Righteousness—God’s right actions that set things right (cf. Psalm 97:2). • ’emûnāh (v. 5): Faithfulness—God’s reliability (cf. Lamentations 3:23). • maqshĕvot (v. 4 “plots”): Intentional plans; underscores premeditated evil (cf. Micah 2:1). Themes and Theology 1. Fear of God versus self-flattery. Romans 3:18 quotes verse 1 to prove universal sin. 2. The wideness of divine love. Paul echoes this vertical imagery: “height…depth” (Ephesians 3:18). 3. God as Fountain and Light (v. 9). Jesus claims both titles—“living water” (John 4:10) and “light of the world” (John 8:12). 4. Moral certainty of judgment. Verses 11–12 mirror Proverbs 11:5–6, showing the eventual collapse of wicked schemes. Intertextual Connections • Job 22:12–13 speaks of heavens and clouds in relation to God’s high ways—parallel to v. 5. • Psalm 57:1 and Ruth 2:12 use the “shadow of Your wings” image, indicating refuge and covenant security. • Revelation 22:1–2 taps the “river of delights” and “fountain of life” motifs when describing the New Jerusalem. Historical and Archaeological Notes • “Man and beast” (v. 6) recalls God’s post-flood covenant with all living creatures (Genesis 9:9–10). Ancient Near Eastern treaties rarely cared for animals, highlighting Israel’s unique revelation. • High mountains/deep sea language reflects the geographical extremes of the land of Israel—from Mount Hermon (~9,200 ft) to the Dead Sea (~1,300 ft below sea level)—rooting the poetry in real landscape. • Davidic psalms often mention court enemies; cuneiform tablets from neighboring nations (e.g., Amarna letters) show similar political hostility, giving cultural context to David’s concern about conspirators. Practical Application • Cultivate the fear of God to silence self-flattery. Simple practices: daily repentance, honest self-examination (James 4:8–10). • Run to God’s wings. When anxiety hits, rehearse verses 5–7 aloud, aligning feelings with truth. • Drink from the river. Consistent Scripture intake keeps the heart refreshed (Jeremiah 15:16; John 7:37–38). • Pray verses 10–12 for families, churches, and nations—asking for ongoing mercy and the humbling of prideful opposition. Literary Highlights • Parallelism: each divine attribute is paralleled by a cosmic picture (love–heavens, faithfulness–clouds, righteousness–mountains, judgments–sea). • Contrast: the “oracle” of wickedness (v. 1) versus the “loving devotion” of God (v. 5). • Inclusio: Psalm opens with heart of the wicked, closes with their ruin—bracketing the whole with a moral certainty. Echoes in Worship History • Early synagogue liturgy read Psalm 36 on the Day of Atonement eve, emphasizing God’s mercy. • The medieval hymn “O God, Thou Art the Ocean Vast” draws directly from verses 5–6. • Modern songs like “Your Love, O Lord (Highest of the Heavens)” by Third Day adapt this psalm word-for-word, showing its lasting resonance. Closing Insight Psalm 36 paints two worlds: one shrinking inward in self-deceit, the other expanding upward in God’s limitless love. The invitation is clear—step out from the cramped corridors of pride and into the bright, living stream that flows from the heart of God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 3:18 There is no fear of God before their eyes. This verse echoes the description of the wicked in Psalm 36:1. Psalm 57:10 For Your loving devotion reaches to the heavens, and Your faithfulness to the clouds. This verse parallels Psalm 36:5, emphasizing God's boundless love and faithfulness. Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. This verse highlights the importance of fearing God, as mentioned in Psalm 36. Teaching Points The Nature of the Wicked (Verses 1-4) An oracle is within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes. (Psalm 36:1) The wicked are characterized by a lack of fear of God, leading to self-deception and sin. Their words are deceitful, and they fail to act wisely or do good. They plot evil even on their beds, showing a deep-seated commitment to wrongdoing. The Attributes of God (Verses 5-9) Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds. (Psalm 36:5) God's love and faithfulness are vast and immeasurable, extending beyond human comprehension. His righteousness is like the mighty mountains, and His judgments are like the great deep. God is a source of life and light, providing refuge and satisfaction to those who seek Him. A Prayer for Protection and Blessing (Verses 10-12) Continue Your loving devotion to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart. (Psalm 36:10) David prays for God's continued love and righteousness for the faithful. He seeks protection from the prideful and the wicked, trusting in God's justice. Practical Applications Cultivate a Fear of God Regularly examine your heart to ensure that you maintain a reverent fear of God, which is the beginning of wisdom. Reflect on God's Attributes Spend time meditating on the vastness of God's love, faithfulness, and righteousness, allowing these truths to transform your perspective and actions. Seek Refuge in God In times of trouble, turn to God as your refuge and source of life, trusting in His provision and protection. Pray for God's Continued Guidance Make it a habit to pray for God's loving devotion and righteousness to guide you and protect you from evil influences. People 1. The Wicked This refers to individuals who are described as having "no fear of God before their eyes" (Psalm 36:1). The Hebrew term used here is "רָשָׁע" (rasha), which denotes someone who is morally wrong or guilty. 2. The LORD This is the covenant name of God, represented in Hebrew as "יהוה" (YHWH). In Psalm 36:5, it states, "Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds" . This highlights God's steadfast love and faithfulness. 3. Man In Psalm 36:7, it mentions "the children of men" , referring to humanity in general. The Hebrew word used is "אָדָם" (adam), which can mean mankind or human beings collectively. Places 1. The Heart of the Wicked This is a metaphorical place where "sin whispers" (Psalm 36:1). In Hebrew, the word for heart is "לֵב" (lev), which often represents the inner self or mind. 2. The Heavens God's love is described as reaching to the heavens (Psalm 36:5). The Hebrew word "שָׁמַיִם" (shamayim) is used, indicating the sky or the abode of God. 3. The Clouds God's faithfulness is said to reach to the clouds (Psalm 36:5). The Hebrew word "עָב" (av) refers to clouds, symbolizing the vastness and omnipresence of God's faithfulness. 4. The Mountains of God God's righteousness is compared to the mighty mountains (Psalm 36:6). The Hebrew word "הַר" (har) is used for mountains, symbolizing strength and stability. 5. The Great Deep God's judgments are likened to the great deep (Psalm 36:6). The Hebrew term "תְּהוֹם" (tehom) refers to the depths of the sea, symbolizing the profound and unfathomable nature of God's judgments. Events 1. The Sinfulness of the Wicked (Verses 1-4) The psalm begins by describing the nature of the wicked. "An oracle is within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes" (Psalm 36:1). The Hebrew word for "oracle" (נְאֻם, ne'um) suggests a divine revelation about the moral state of the wicked, emphasizing their lack of reverence for God. 2. Self-Deception and Malice (Verses 2-3) The wicked flatter themselves too much to detect or hate their sin. "For his eyes are too full of conceit to detect or hate his own sin" (Psalm 36:2). The Hebrew root for "flatter" (חָלַק, chalaq) implies smoothness or deceit, indicating self-deception. 3. Commitment to Evil (Verse 4) The wicked plot evil even on their beds and commit themselves to a sinful path. "Even on his bed he plots wickedness; he sets himself on a path that is not good; he does not reject evil" (Psalm 36:4). The Hebrew word for "plots" (חָשַׁב, chashav) conveys the idea of devising or planning. 4. The Lovingkindness of God (Verses 5-6) The psalmist shifts focus to God's attributes, highlighting His steadfast love and faithfulness. "Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds" (Psalm 36:5). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, chesed) is often translated as "steadfast love" or "mercy." 5. God’s Righteousness and Justice (Verse 6) God's righteousness is described as being like the mighty mountains, and His judgments like the great deep. "Your righteousness is like the highest mountains; Your judgments are like the deepest sea" (Psalm 36:6). The Hebrew word for "righteousness" (צְדָקָה, tzedakah) denotes justice and moral integrity. 6. God’s Preservation of Life (Verse 6) The psalmist acknowledges God's care for all creation. "O LORD, You preserve man and beast" (Psalm 36:6). The Hebrew root for "preserve" (יָשַׁע, yasha) implies deliverance or salvation. 7. The Abundance of God’s House (Verses 7-8) Those who take refuge in God experience the abundance of His house and drink from His river of delights. "They feast on the abundance of Your house, and You give them drink from Your river of delights" (Psalm 36:8). The Hebrew word for "delights" (עֵדֶן, eden) suggests pleasure or joy. 8. The Fountain of Life and Light (Verse 9) God is described as the source of life and light. "For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light" (Psalm 36:9). The Hebrew word for "fountain" (מָקוֹר, maqor) indicates a source or spring. 9. Prayer for Continued Love and Protection (Verses 10-11) The psalmist prays for God's continued love and protection for the upright. "Extend Your loving devotion to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart" (Psalm 36:10). 10. Final Petition Against the Wicked (Verse 12) The psalm concludes with a petition against the wicked, asking that they not be allowed to prevail. "There the evildoers lie fallen, thrown down and unable to rise" (Psalm 36:12). Lessons from Psalm 36 1. The Deceptive Nature of Sin Psalm 36 begins by highlighting the insidious nature of sin, which whispers deceitfully to the wicked. "An oracle is within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes" (Psalm 36:1). This verse reminds us that sin can blind us to the truth and lead us away from God. Recognizing this deception is the first step in guarding our hearts and minds against its influence. 2. The Importance of Reverence for God The psalmist points out that the wicked lack the fear of God, which is a crucial element in living a righteous life. "For in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to detect or hate his sin" (Psalm 36:2). Reverence for God keeps us humble and aware of our need for His guidance and grace. It is the foundation of wisdom and the beginning of a life that honors Him. 3. The Power of God's Love God's love is described as unfailing and precious. "Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds" (Psalm 36:5). This imagery reminds us of the vastness and reliability of God's love. No matter our circumstances, His love is a constant source of comfort and strength, encouraging us to trust in His goodness. 4. The Righteousness of God The psalmist declares, "Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, Your judgments like the deepest sea" (Psalm 36:6). God's righteousness is unchanging and majestic, providing a standard for us to aspire to. It assures us that His ways are just and that we can rely on His perfect judgment in all things. 5. The Shelter of God's Wings In times of trouble, we can find refuge in God. "How precious is Your loving devotion, O God, that the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings" (Psalm 36:7). This beautiful metaphor invites us to seek safety and peace in God's presence, knowing that He is our protector and provider. 6. The Abundance of God's House The psalmist speaks of the abundance found in God's house: "They feast on the abundance of Your house, and You give them drink from Your river of delights" (Psalm 36:8). This verse encourages us to draw near to God, where we can experience the fullness of His blessings and the joy that comes from being in His presence. 7. The Source of True Life "For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light" (Psalm 36:9). God is the source of all life and light, illuminating our path and giving us purpose. By staying connected to Him, we gain clarity and direction, enabling us to live lives that reflect His glory. 8. The Call for Continued Love and Righteousness The psalmist prays, "Extend Your loving devotion to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart" (Psalm 36:10). This prayer is a reminder to seek God's continued presence and favor in our lives, striving to live in a way that honors Him and reflects His character. 9. The Downfall of the Wicked The psalm concludes with a warning about the fate of the wicked: "There the evildoers lie fallen, thrown down and unable to rise" (Psalm 36:12). This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of living apart from God. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith and to avoid the pitfalls of sin. 10. The Assurance of God's Protection Throughout Psalm 36, we see the assurance of God's protection for those who trust in Him. His love, righteousness, and faithfulness are unwavering, providing a solid foundation for our lives. By placing our trust in Him, we can face life's challenges with confidence, knowing that He is always with us. Topics 1. The Depravity of the Wicked (Verses 1-4) The psalm begins by describing the sinful nature of the wicked. "An oracle is within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes" (Psalm 36:1). The Hebrew word for "oracle" (נְאֻם, ne'um) suggests a divine revelation about the depth of human sinfulness, highlighting the absence of reverence for God. 2. Self-Deception and Malice (Verses 2-3) The wicked flatter themselves and fail to recognize their own iniquity. "For his eyes are too full of conceit to detect or hate his own sin" (Psalm 36:2). The Hebrew root for "conceit" (חָלַק, chalak) implies smoothness or flattery, indicating self-deception. 3. Persistent Evil (Verse 4) The wicked are committed to their sinful ways. "Even on his bed he plots wickedness; he sets himself on a path that is not good; he does not reject evil" (Psalm 36:4). The Hebrew word for "plots" (חָשַׁב, chashab) conveys the idea of devising or planning, showing intentionality in wrongdoing. 4. The Lovingkindness of God (Verses 5-6) The psalm shifts to extol God's steadfast love and faithfulness. "Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds" (Psalm 36:5). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, chesed) is central to understanding God's covenantal love. 5. God’s Righteousness and Justice (Verse 6) God's righteousness is described as majestic and unchanging. "Your righteousness is like the highest mountains; Your judgments are like the deepest sea" (Psalm 36:6). The Hebrew word for "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) emphasizes moral integrity and justice. 6. God’s Preservation of Life (Verse 6) God is the sustainer of all creation. "O LORD, You preserve man and beast" (Psalm 36:6). The Hebrew root for "preserve" (יָשַׁע, yasha) implies deliverance and protection. 7. The Abundance of God’s House (Verses 7-8) Believers find refuge and satisfaction in God’s presence. "How precious is Your loving devotion, O God, that the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings" (Psalm 36:7). The imagery of "wings" suggests protection and care. 8. The Fountain of Life and Light (Verse 9) God is the source of life and enlightenment. "For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light" (Psalm 36:9). The Hebrew word for "fountain" (מָקוֹר, maqor) signifies a life-giving source. 9. Prayer for Continued Lovingkindness (Verses 10-11) The psalmist prays for God’s ongoing love and protection. "Extend Your loving devotion to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart" (Psalm 36:10). The plea reflects a desire for God’s enduring presence. 10. The Downfall of the Wicked (Verse 12) The psalm concludes with the assurance of the ultimate defeat of the wicked. "There the evildoers lie fallen, thrown down and unable to rise" (Psalm 36:12). This final verse underscores the certainty of divine justice. Themes 1. The Depravity of the Wicked Psalm 36 begins by highlighting the sinful nature of the wicked. The psalmist describes how "there is no fear of God before his eyes" (Psalm 36:1). This theme underscores the moral corruption and arrogance of those who reject God, rooted in the Hebrew word "פַּחַד" (pachad), meaning fear or dread, indicating a lack of reverence for God. 2. Self-Deception and Flattery The wicked are portrayed as self-deceptive, flattering themselves in their own eyes. "For in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to detect or hate his sin" (Psalm 36:2). This theme emphasizes the danger of self-deception, where the Hebrew word "חָלַק" (chalak) for "flatter" suggests a smooth or slippery path, leading to moral blindness. 3. The Corruption of Speech and Actions The psalmist notes that the words of the wicked are "trouble and deceit" (Psalm 36:3). This theme highlights the destructive power of corrupt speech and actions, with "אָוֶן" (aven) for "trouble" and "מִרְמָה" (mirmah) for "deceit," indicating a deep-seated intent to harm and mislead. 4. The Contrast of God's Steadfast Love and Faithfulness In contrast to the wicked, God's attributes are celebrated: "Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds" (Psalm 36:5). This theme emphasizes God's "חֶסֶד" (chesed), or steadfast love, and "אֱמוּנָה" (emunah), or faithfulness, highlighting His eternal and boundless nature. 5. God's Righteousness and Justice The psalmist declares, "Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, Your judgments like the deepest sea" (Psalm 36:6). This theme underscores God's moral perfection and just governance, with "צֶדֶק" (tsedeq) for righteousness and "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) for judgments, portraying His unwavering commitment to justice. 6. The Abundance of God's Provision and Protection God's provision and protection are depicted as abundant and life-giving: "They feast on the abundance of Your house, and You give them drink from Your river of delights" (Psalm 36:8). This theme reflects God's generous care, with "שָׁמַן" (shaman) for abundance and "נַחַל" (nachal) for river, symbolizing sustenance and joy. 7. The Fountain of Life and Light The psalmist acknowledges God as the source of life and enlightenment: "For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light" (Psalm 36:9). This theme highlights the divine origin of life and truth, with "מְקוֹר" (maqor) for fountain and "אוֹר" (or) for light, emphasizing spiritual illumination and vitality. 8. A Prayer for Continued Lovingkindness and Protection The psalm concludes with a prayer for God's continued love and protection: "Continue Your loving devotion to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart" (Psalm 36:10). This theme reflects a desire for ongoing divine favor and moral integrity, with "יָדַע" (yada) for know, indicating an intimate relationship with God. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Love and Faithfulness Thank God for His immeasurable love and faithfulness that sustains us daily. Repentance and Renewal Ask God to reveal any areas of self-deception or sin in your life and seek His forgiveness and renewal. Protection from Evil Pray for God's protection against the influence of the wicked and for strength to stand firm in righteousness. Guidance and Wisdom Request God's guidance and wisdom to live a life that honors Him and reflects His attributes to others. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 36:5 mentions God’s love extending “to the heavens”—how does this align with modern cosmological understanding of an expanding universe? 2. In Psalm 36:6, God’s judgments are likened to the deep—what historical or archaeological support exists for such extreme claims of divine intervention? 3. Psalm 36:1 suggests the wicked have “no fear of God”—how is this reconciled with other biblical texts claiming innate moral awareness (Romans 2:14–15)? 4. Psalm 36:7 speaks of taking refuge in God’s shadow—what scientific or historical evidence supports the literal or metaphorical validity of this promise? 5. Psalm 36:9 states, “in Your light we see light”—how do skeptics address this assertion in light of modern physics and our understanding of light’s properties? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does David portray the wicked in verses 1-4? Reflect on this description in the context of our modern society. 2. What does it mean that God's love "extends to the heavens" and His faithfulness "reaches the clouds"? 3. How can understanding God's righteousness and judgment, as described in verse 6, impact our daily decisions and interactions? 4. How does the imagery of people and animals taking refuge under God's wings resonate with you personally? 5. In what ways have you experienced the "river of God's delights" and His light in your life? 6. How does Psalm 36 influence your understanding of God's providential care? 7. What actions can we take to ensure we continue to experience God's love and righteousness? 8. How does the downfall of the wicked, as described in verses 11-12, reflect on the consequences of pride and wickedness in contemporary society? 9. What insights does this Psalm provide into the character of God and how can these insights inspire you in your life? 10. How can you live a life that reflects the righteousness described in this Psalm? 11. Discuss the contrast between human wickedness and God's boundless love as described in this Psalm. 12. In what ways can you practically extend the love and righteousness of God to others in your daily life? 13. How does Psalm 36 inspire you to seek refuge in God during times of adversity? 14. What does this Psalm teach about God's perception of sin and how does this compare with societal views today? 15. Reflect on the concept of God as the source of life and light. How has this been evident in your own life? 16. How does the assurance of the wicked's downfall comfort you, and how should it shape your interactions with the world? 17. What changes can you make in your life in response to the description of the wicked in this Psalm? 18. How does the understanding of God's boundless love impact your spiritual journey? 19. How can this Psalm guide you in your prayer life? 20. Reflect on the significance of God's Sanctuary as described in this Psalm. How can we create a personal "sanctuary" in our daily lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions