King James Version

What Does Psalms 37:9 Mean?

Psalms 37:9 in the King James Version says “For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 37 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.”

Psalms 37:9 · KJV

Context

7

Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Rest in: Heb. Be silent to

8

Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.

9

For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.

10

For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.

11

But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

Read Psalms 37 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The contrast is stark: evildoers 'cut off' versus those waiting on the LORD 'inherit the earth.' Jesus quotes this verse in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:5), applying inheritance to 'the meek.' The Hebrew 'karat' (cut off) was used for covenant breaking and capital punishment—total removal. Inheriting the earth/land echoes Abrahamic covenant promises, now universalized to include all who trust God. This inheritance isn't immediate but eschatological, requiring patient endurance while evildoers seem to possess the earth presently.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Land inheritance was Israel's covenant blessing. David extends this to cosmic scope—the righteous will ultimately possess not just Canaan but renewed creation, fulfilled in Revelation 21:1-4.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the promise of future inheritance sustain you through present disinheritance?
  2. What does it mean to 'wait upon the LORD' rather than seize outcomes yourself?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
כִּֽי1 of 8
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מְ֭רֵעִים2 of 8

“For evildoers”

H7489

properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)

יִכָּרֵת֑וּן3 of 8

“shall be cut off”

H3772

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

וְקוֵֹ֥י4 of 8

“but those that wait”

H6960

to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e., collect; (figuratively) to expect

יְ֝הוָ֗ה5 of 8

“upon the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

הֵ֣מָּה6 of 8
H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

יִֽירְשׁוּ7 of 8

“they shall inherit”

H3423

to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place); by implication, to seize, to rob, to inherit; also to expel, to impoverish

אָֽרֶץ׃8 of 8

“the earth”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

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 37:9 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 37:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 60:21Psalms 25:13Proverbs 2:21Psalms 37:29Isaiah 57:13Psalms 37:11-12

Test Your Knowledge

Psalms 37 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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