King James Version
Psalms 17:4 in the King James Version says “Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.”
Psalms 17:4 · KJV
Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.
Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.
Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.
Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not. slip: Heb. be not moved
I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“by the word”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
“of thy lips”
H8193the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
“I have kept”
H8104properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
“me from the paths”
H734a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan
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.
Psalms 17:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 17:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge