King James Version

What Does Psalms 17:12 Mean?

Psalms 17:12 in the King James Version says “Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey, and as it were a young lion lurking in secret places. Like: Heb. The likeness...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey, and as it were a young lion lurking in secret places. Like: Heb. The likeness of him (that is, of every one of them) is as a lion that desireth to ravin lurking: Heb. sitting”

Psalms 17:12 · KJV

Context

10

They are inclosed in their own fat: with their mouth they speak proudly.

11

They have now compassed us in our steps: they have set their eyes bowing down to the earth;

12

Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey, and as it were a young lion lurking in secret places. Like: Heb. The likeness of him (that is, of every one of them) is as a lion that desireth to ravin lurking: Heb. sitting

13

Arise, O LORD, disappoint him, cast him down: deliver my soul from the wicked, which is thy sword: disappoint: Heb. prevent his face which is: or, by

14

From men which are thy hand, O LORD, from men of the world, which have their portion in this life, and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure: they are full of children, and leave the rest of their substance to their babes. which are: or, by they: or, their children are full

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The double lion metaphor—a lion 'eager to tear' and a young lion 'lurking in ambush'—portrays predatory evil. The Hebrew 'kasaph' (eager/long) suggests intense desire to destroy. This imagery recalls Satan as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8) and anticipates Revelation's imagery of beastly persecution. Reformed theology recognizes that Satan works through human agents to oppose God's people.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Lions were real threats in ancient Israel's wilderness, making this powerful imagery for human predators. Young lions were especially dangerous as hungry hunters.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you recognize predatory evil even when disguised or hidden?
  2. What spiritual disciplines help you remain alert to danger?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
דִּמְיֹנ֗וֹ1 of 7

“Like”

H1825

resemblance

כְּ֭אַרְיֵה2 of 7

“as a lion”

H738

a lion

יִכְס֣וֹף3 of 7

“that is greedy”

H3700

properly, to become pale, i.e., (by implication) to pine after; also to fear

לִטְר֑וֹף4 of 7

“of his prey”

H2963

to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)

וְ֝כִכְפִ֗יר5 of 7

“and as it were a young lion”

H3715

a village (as covered in by walls); also a young lion (perhaps as covered with a mane)

יֹשֵׁ֥ב6 of 7

“lurking”

H3427

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בְּמִסְתָּרִֽים׃7 of 7

“in secret places”

H4565

properly, a concealer, i.e., a covert

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 17:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 17:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 7:2Psalms 10:91 Peter 5:82 Timothy 4:17Psalms 22:13

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