Bible Strands
Psalms 37:17
For the arms of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The psalmist addresses the community of Israel regarding the apparent prosperity of the wicked and the perceived suffering of the righteous. The declaration occurs within a wisdom-style discourse contrasting the final destinies of both groups.
The words — זְרוֹעוֹת (ze.ro'ot) translates literally to "arms" or "strength," while סוֹמֵךְ (so.mekh) means "sustaining" or "upholding." These terms frame the verse's contrast between human power failing and divine support persisting.
The thread — The motif of divine upholding appears in Psalms 63:8 and 145:14, while the theme of God strengthening His people echoes Isaiah 41:10. These passages collectively reinforce the pattern of God's active support for the faithful.
Why it lands — The text commands the reader to recognize that human power ultimately fails while divine support remains constant. It requires a practical shift from relying on personal strength to trusting in sustained divine action.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the Lord upholdeth the righteous.
Cross-references
- Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
- Psalms 63:8 My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me.
- Psalms 145:14 The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
- Isaiah 42:1 “Here is My Servant, whom I uphold, My Chosen One, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations.
- Psalms 37:24 Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, for the LORD is holding his hand.
- Psalms 119:116 Sustain me as You promised, that I may live; let me not be ashamed of my hope.
- Psalms 51:12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit.
- Jude 1:24 Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you unblemished in His glorious presence, with great joy—
- Psalms 10:15 Break the arm of the wicked and evildoer; call him to account for his wickedness until none is left to be found.
- Job 38:15 Light is withheld from the wicked, and their upraised arm is broken.