King James Version

What Does Psalms 94:6 Mean?

Psalms 94:6 in the King James Version says “They slay the widow and the stranger, and murder the fatherless.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 94 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“They slay the widow and the stranger, and murder the fatherless.”

Psalms 94:6 · KJV

Context

4

How long shall they utter and speak hard things? and all the workers of iniquity boast themselves?

5

They break in pieces thy people, O LORD, and afflict thine heritage.

6

They slay the widow and the stranger, and murder the fatherless.

7

Yet they say, The LORD shall not see, neither shall the God of Jacob regard it.

8

Understand, ye brutish among the people: and ye fools, when will ye be wise?

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The targeting of the most vulnerable—widow, stranger (ger—sojourner, immigrant), and fatherless (yatom—orphan)—demonstrates the depth of wickedness. These three groups appear repeatedly in Torah as specially protected by God (Exodus 22:22-24, Deuteronomy 10:18, 24:17). Murdering (ratsach—unlawful killing) those least able to defend themselves reveals complete moral bankruptcy. This verse establishes God's special concern for the vulnerable and His fierce opposition to those who exploit them.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern law codes (including Torah) included protections for these vulnerable classes, making their murder particularly heinous violations of both divine and human law.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does your treatment of vulnerable people reflect your understanding of God's values?
  2. What 'widows, strangers, and orphans' in your context need you to stand up for them?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
אַ֭לְמָנָה1 of 5

“the widow”

H490

a widow; also a desolate place

וְגֵ֣ר2 of 5

“and the stranger”

H1616

properly, a guest; by implication, a foreigner

יַהֲרֹ֑גוּ3 of 5

“They slay”

H2026

to smite with deadly intent

וִֽיתוֹמִ֣ים4 of 5

“the fatherless”

H3490

a bereaved person

יְרַצֵּֽחוּ׃5 of 5

“and murder”

H7523

properly, to dash in pieces, i.e., kill (a human being), especially to murder

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 94:6 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 94:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 10:2Ezekiel 22:7Malachi 3:5Jeremiah 7:6Jeremiah 22:3Isaiah 13:15-18

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