Bible Strands
Psalms 73:12
Behold, these are the wicked—always carefree as they increase their wealth.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Asaph addresses the assembly while processing the visible prosperity of the ungodly. He records this observation immediately after quoting their arrogant denial of divine oversight.
The words — The phrase שַׁלְוֵי עוֹלָם (shalvei olam) literally means "at ease of perpetuity" or "always carefree." It directly modifies הִשְׂגּוּ חָיִל (hisgu chayil), which translates to "they increase wealth."
The thread — The text's description of untroubled wickedness aligns with the self-reliant arrogance condemned in Psalms 52:7 and the physical and moral corruption detailed in Jeremiah 5:28. Hosea 12:7 similarly connects material accumulation to dishonest gain.
Why it lands — The passage requires the reader to acknowledge the factual reality of the wicked's temporary security before any theological resolution. It demands that material prosperity be evaluated strictly as a present condition rather than a sign of divine favor.
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
Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.
Cross-references
- Psalms 52:7 “Look at the man who did not make God his refuge, but trusted in the abundance of his wealth and strengthened himself by destruction.”
- Jeremiah 5:28 They have grown fat and sleek, and have excelled in the deeds of the wicked. They have not taken up the cause of the fatherless, that they might prosper; nor have they defended the rights of the needy.
- Hosea 12:7 A merchant loves to defraud with dishonest scales in his hands.
- Psalms 17:14 from such men, O LORD, by Your hand—from men of the world whose portion is in this life. May You fill the bellies of Your treasured ones and satisfy their sons, so they leave their abundance to their children.
- Psalms 37:35 I have seen a wicked, ruthless man flourishing like a well-rooted native tree,
- Psalms 49:6 They trust in their wealth and boast in their great riches.
- Psalms 62:10 Place no trust in extortion or false hope in stolen goods. If your riches increase, do not set your heart upon them.
- Jeremiah 5:17 They will devour your harvest and food; they will consume your sons and daughters; they will eat up your flocks and herds; they will feed on your vines and fig trees. With the sword they will destroy the fortified cities in which you trust.”
- Jeremiah 12:1 Righteous are You, O LORD, when I plead before You. Yet about Your judgments I wish to contend with You: Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all the faithless live at ease?
- Luke 16:19 Now there was a rich man dressed in purple and fine linen, who lived each day in joyous splendor.