King James Version

What Does Psalms 94:1 Mean?

Psalms 94:1 in the King James Version says “O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, shew thyself. God: Heb. God of revenges she...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 94 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, shew thyself. God: Heb. God of revenges shew: Heb. shine forth”

Psalms 94:1 · KJV

Context

1

O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, shew thyself. God: Heb. God of revenges shew: Heb. shine forth

2

Lift up thyself, thou judge of the earth: render a reward to the proud.

3

LORD, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked triumph?

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This imprecatory psalm appeals to God as 'the God to whom vengeance belongeth' (El neqamot—literally 'God of vengeances'), using the plural to intensify the concept. The call for God to 'shew thyself' (hofa) requests visible manifestation of His justice. The dual address to 'O LORD God' and repetition of 'shew thyself' creates urgency and intensity. This verse establishes that vengeance belongs to God alone (Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:19), not to human agents, while affirming that God will actively judge evil.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Written during a time of oppression, likely when Israel faced persecution from wicked rulers or foreign powers, this psalm voices the cry of the oppressed for divine intervention.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does entrusting vengeance to God free you from bitterness when you experience injustice?
  2. What does it mean to pray for God's justice while also extending forgiveness to those who wrong you?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
אֵ֖ל1 of 6

“God”

H410

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

נְקָמ֣וֹת2 of 6

“to whom vengeance”

H5360

avengement, whether the act of the passion

יְהוָ֑ה3 of 6

“O LORD”

H3068

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

אֵ֖ל4 of 6

“God”

H410

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

נְקָמ֣וֹת5 of 6

“to whom vengeance”

H5360

avengement, whether the act of the passion

הוֹפִֽיַע׃6 of 6

“belongeth shew”

H3313

to shine

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 94:1 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 94:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 35:4Nahum 1:2Deuteronomy 32:41-42Deuteronomy 32:35Hebrews 10:30Romans 12:19

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