King James Version
What Does Psalms 9:17 Mean?
“The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.”
Context
15
The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken.
16
The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. Higgaion: that is, Meditation
17
The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.
18
For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever.
19
Arise, O LORD; let not man prevail: let the heathen be judged in thy sight.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **The wicked.**—This is a most unfortunate rendering. The true translation is, *the wicked shall return, *as in LXX. and Vulg. (not “be turned”) *to the grave, i.e.*, *to dust, *according to the doom in Genesis 3:19, or *to the unseen world, *as in Job 30:23; Psalm 90:1-3; or the verbs may be imperative, as in LXX. and Vulg., *let them return. *The verse is closely connected with the previous one. The wicked are bringing about their own destruction, and so witnessing to the righteous judgment of Jehovah. There is an intensity about the original word, *lisheôlah, *with its double sign of direction, “*right *down to the world of death.” And all.—Better, *the heathen all, forgetters of God.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 9:17 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 9:17
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge