Psalms36

Psalm 36 contrasts the pervasive wickedness of humanity with the boundless attributes of God. It describes the wicked as devoid of the fear of God, engaging in deceit and plotting evil. In stark opposition, the psalmist extols God's mercy, faithfulness, righteousness, and lovingkindness, which provide life and satisfaction to those who trust Him. The psalm concludes with a plea for divine protection and an affirmation of the ultimate downfall of the wicked.
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The Depravity of the Wicked

1
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David the servant of the LORD. The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes. ​
2
For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful. ​
3
The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, and to do good.
4
He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil. ​

The Immensity of God's Attributes

5
Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds. ​
6
Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD, thou preservest man and beast. ​
7
How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. ​
8
They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. ​
9
For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. ​

Prayer for Protection and Assurance of Judgment

10
O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. ​
11
Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.
12
There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise. ​

Study Notes for Psalms 36

Verse 1

This psalm contrasts the inherent evil of the wicked with the boundless goodness of God. The transgression of the wicked is rooted in a fundamental lack of reverence for God (fear of God), which is the source of all moral knowledge.

Verse 2

The wicked person is trapped in self-deception, justifying their actions internally until the severity of their sin is exposed by circumstances or divine judgment.

Verse 4

This depicts the constant, premeditated nature of the wicked’s plotting, contrasting sharply with the righteous who meditate on God's law day and night (Ps 1:2).

Verse 5

The psalm shifts abruptly from human sin to divine perfection. God's *mercy* (Hebrew: *hesed*, covenantal faithfulness) and *faithfulness* (Hebrew: *emunah*) are described using cosmic metaphors (heavens and clouds), emphasizing their limitless scope.

Verse 6

God’s *righteousness* is firm and reliable like the 'great mountains,' while His *judgments* are deep and mysterious like the 'great deep.' This verse highlights God’s meticulous providential care for all creation, including both humans and animals.

Verse 7

The excellence of God's *lovingkindness* is the foundation of human trust. The imagery of taking refuge 'under the shadow of thy wings' is a powerful metaphor for security and protection found only in God.

Verse 8

The 'fatness of thy house' and the 'river of thy pleasures' describe the abundant spiritual satisfaction and delight found in communion with God, often interpreted as the joys of the Temple or the future bliss of the redeemed.

Verse 9

This is a profound theological statement: God is the ultimate source of existence and vitality (fountain of life). Spiritual understanding and moral truth (*light*) are only accessible through His revelation.

Verse 10

The psalm concludes with a petition, asking God to continue manifesting His covenantal love and righteousness specifically toward those who truly know and walk uprightly before Him.

Verse 12

This verse switches from petition to declarative assurance (a prophetic perfect), confidently stating the finality of the wicked’s downfall as if it has already occurred, affirming God’s ultimate justice.

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