King James Version
What Does Psalms 36:12 Mean?
“There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise.”
Psalms 36:12 · KJV
Context
10
O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. continue: Heb. draw out at length
11
Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.
12
There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe prophetic perfect tense 'are fallen... are cast down' describes future judgment with past tense certainty—what God decreed is accomplished regardless of timing. 'There' may indicate a specific place of judgment or simply 'behold!' The finality 'shall not be able to rise' emphasizes irreversible defeat. This conclusion answers the psalm's opening portrait of seemingly successful wickedness (vv. 1-4) with assurance that appearances deceive; God's judgment will ultimately vindicate righteousness and destroy evil, encouraging patient endurance.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The certain downfall of evildoers was a consistent theme in wisdom literature and prophetic oracles. Israel's faith required trusting this eventual outcome despite present circumstances suggesting otherwise.
Reflection Questions
- How does confidence in God's ultimate justice help you endure present injustice?
- What difference does it make that the wicked's fall is both certain and final?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsנָ֭פְלוּ2 of 8
“fallen”
H5307to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
פֹּ֣עֲלֵי3 of 8
“There are the workers”
H6466to do or make (systematically and habitually), especially to practise
אָ֑וֶן4 of 8
“of iniquity”
H205strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol
וְלֹא6 of 8
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יָ֥כְלוּ7 of 8
“and shall not be able”
H3201to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
קֽוּם׃8 of 8
“to rise”
H6965to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
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 36:12 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 36:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge