Psalms 10:3

KJV

For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, [whom] the LORD abhorreth.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the wicked {H7563} boasteth {H1984} of his heart's {H5315} desire {H8378}, and blesseth {H1288} the covetous {H1214}, whom the LORD {H3068} abhorreth {H5006}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the wicked boasts about his lusts; he blesses greed and despises ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

For the wicked man boasts in the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD.

American Standard Version

For the wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire, And the covetous renounceth, yea, contemneth Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 10:3 offers a stark and penetrating portrayal of the wicked, revealing their audacious self-glorification and their perverse endorsement of those driven by ruthless greed. This verse lays bare the profound moral inversion characteristic of ungodliness, where personal desires supersede divine will, and ill-gotten gain is celebrated. It powerfully contrasts human depravity with God's holy character, asserting that the very covetousness the wicked commend is an abomination to the LORD, thereby setting a crucial theological foundation for the psalmist's subsequent lament and plea for divine justice.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 10 functions as a passionate and urgent lament, often considered a thematic counterpart to Psalm 9, which celebrates God's past victories and future judgment. While Psalm 9 looks back in praise, Psalm 10 opens with a desperate cry concerning God's apparent distance and the unchecked proliferation of evil in the present moment, as seen in the psalmist's poignant question, [Why do you stand far off, O LORD?](/psalms/10-1 "Psalm 10:1 - A Cry for Divine Intervention") The psalmist then meticulously details the character and actions of the ungodly, emphasizing their arrogance, self-sufficiency, and their oppression of the vulnerable. Verse 3 serves as a foundational stroke in this portrait, illuminating the wicked's internal disposition (boasting of their heart's desire) and their external alliances (blessing the covetous), both of which stand in direct defiance of God's nature. This vivid description builds a compelling case for the psalmist's subsequent pleas for divine intervention and justice, which ultimately culminate in a renewed declaration of God's eternal reign and His unwavering care for the afflicted, as affirmed in [Psalm 10:16-18](/psalms/10-16-18 "Psalm 10:16-18 - The Lord Reigns Forever").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The socio-political landscape of ancient Israel, as reflected throughout the Psalms, frequently saw the righteous—often the poor, vulnerable, or oppressed—suffering at the hands of the wicked, who were typically those in positions of power, wealth, or those who flagrantly disregarded God's law. Covetousness, or the relentless pursuit of gain, was a pervasive societal ill, consistently condemned in the Mosaic Law and the prophetic writings because it inevitably led to injustice, exploitation, and the erosion of communal solidarity. The [Law explicitly forbade coveting](/exodus/20-17 "Exodus 20:17 - The Tenth Commandment") as a foundational sin, and the prophets, such as Isaiah, vehemently denounced those who [joined house to house and field to field](/isaiah/5-8 "Isaiah 5:8 - Woe to the Greedy") for personal enrichment at the expense of others. In this context, the "wicked" are not merely individuals committing isolated sins, but those who embody a lifestyle characterized by a fundamental rejection of God's authority and a blatant disregard for His moral order, often thriving through the subjugation of others. Their "boasting" and "blessing" of the covetous reflect a cultural environment where moral boundaries were dangerously blurred, and ungodly success was admired rather than condemned.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 10:3 profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 10 and the broader Psalter. Firstly, it powerfully highlights the **arrogance and self-glorification** of the wicked, who live as if God is absent or indifferent, as further elaborated in [Psalm 10:4](/psalms/10-4 "Psalm 10:4 - The Wicked's Arrogance"). Their boasting of "heart's desire" signifies a radical autonomy from God, where their own appetites and ambitions dictate their actions, rather than divine precepts. Secondly, the verse underscores a deep **moral inversion**, where the wicked not only engage in sin but actively approve, commend, and even celebrate others who participate in similar unrighteousness, particularly those driven by covetousness. This demonstrates a complete reversal of divine values, where what God condemns is openly glorified. Finally, and most crucially, the verse emphatically declares **God's abhorrence of sin**, specifically covetousness and the unrighteous lifestyle it embodies. This serves as a vital theological anchor, assuring the reader that despite the apparent triumph of the wicked, God's holy character and unwavering justice remain the ultimate standard, providing enduring hope for the oppressed and a certain promise of future judgment for the ungodly.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Boasteth (Hebrew, הָלַל, _hâlal'_):** This verb, commonly translated as "to praise" or "to glorify," takes on a negative connotation here, signifying self-exaltation. It describes an arrogant, self-congratulatory attitude where the wicked celebrate their own desires and achievements, rather than offering glory to God. It implies a public display of pride, a defiant disregard for divine authority, and an open reveling in their ungodly schemes, demonstrating a complete lack of humility or shame.
* **Covetous (Hebrew, בָּצַע, _bâtsaʻ'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to break off" or "to plunder," this term describes someone who is greedy, rapacious, or ruthlessly acquisitive. It points to individuals who pursue material gain through unjust or oppressive means, often at the expense of the vulnerable and the poor. The wicked "bless" or commend such individuals, indicating their approval of illicit gain and their alignment with a system that prioritizes self-enrichment over justice and righteousness.
* **Abhorreth (Hebrew, נָאַץ, _nâʼats'_):** This powerful verb means "to scorn," "to despise," "to spurn," or "to reject with contempt." It conveys God's intense, visceral detestation for the actions and character described. It is not merely a passive disapproval but a profound, active rejection of that which is contrary to His holy nature. This word highlights the absolute incompatibility between God's righteousness and the wicked's covetousness and their active endorsement of it.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire":** This opening clause reveals both the internal disposition and the public declaration of the wicked. Their "heart's desire" (a combination of Hebrew _nephesh_ for "heart" or "soul" and _taʼăvâh_ for "desire" or "longing") is the ultimate driving force of their lives, not God's will or command. They openly praise and celebrate their own selfish inclinations, ambitions, and plans, which often involve illicit gain, oppression, or self-aggrandizement. This boasting is an act of defiant self-glorification, an assertion of radical autonomy from God, and a shameless embrace of their own sinful appetites.
* **"and blesseth the covetous":** This part of the verse describes the wicked's external alignment and profound moral corruption. The word "blesseth" (Hebrew _bârak_) here means to commend, approve, or praise, rather than to invoke divine favor. The wicked extend their approval and affirmation to those who are "covetous" (Hebrew _bâtsaʻ_), meaning those who gain through ruthless, often violent, or unjust means. This indicates a deep moral inversion where sin is not only tolerated but actively celebrated and affirmed within their sphere, further solidifying their opposition to God's righteous standards and their complicity in injustice.
* **"[whom] the LORD abhorreth":** This concluding phrase serves as a stark and unequivocal divine commentary, revealing God's absolute judgment. The "whom" refers directly to the "covetous" and, by extension, to the wicked who bless them and embody such values. The LORD's "abhorrence" (Hebrew _nâʼats'_) signifies His utter detestation, scorn, and complete rejection of such behavior and the character it represents. This declaration underscores God's perfect holiness, His unwavering commitment to justice, and His active opposition to all forms of unrighteousness, especially that which involves greed and the oppression of the vulnerable.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 10:3 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological and moral message. **Irony** is strikingly evident, as the wicked "bless" (commend, approve) precisely what the LORD "abhorreth" (despises, rejects). This stark juxtaposition highlights the immense moral chasm between human depravity and divine righteousness. There is also a strong element of **Antithesis**, setting the wicked's self-glorification and their active approval of sin directly against God's absolute detestation of it. The phrase "heart's desire" functions as a form of **Metonymy**, where the "heart" represents the core being and its deepest inclinations, which are here characterized by self-serving ambition and defiance. The verse's concise yet powerful structure, moving from the wicked's internal state to their external actions and culminating in God's definitive judgment, creates a memorable and impactful statement of moral and theological truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 10:3 offers profound theological insights into the pervasive nature of sin, the immutable character of God, and the distorted moral landscape of humanity. It reveals that sin is not merely an isolated transgression but a deep-seated rebellion rooted in the "heart's desire," leading to audacious self-glorification and a complete disregard for divine authority. The wicked's act of "blessing the covetous" demonstrates a societal and spiritual contagion, where sin is not only practiced but actively affirmed and celebrated, leading to a profound moral inversion that celebrates what God condemns. This stands in stark opposition to God's holy nature, which "abhorreth" such unrighteousness. The verse underscores God's unwavering justice and His active opposition to all forms of greed and oppression, reminding us that His character is the ultimate standard against which all human actions are measured, and His judgment against sin is certain and just.

* [Proverbs 28:25](/proverbs/28-25 "Proverbs 28:25 - The Greedy Stir Up Conflict")
* [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Resists the Proud")
* [Romans 1:32](/romans/1-32 "Romans 1:32 - Approving of Unrighteousness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse serves as a potent mirror, inviting believers to scrutinize their own hearts and the values they embrace in a world often captivated by worldly success. In a culture that frequently celebrates wealth and achievement regardless of its ethical origins, are we susceptible to "blessing the covetous" by admiring or condoning those who gain through unjust means, or who prioritize selfish desires over God's righteous commands? Psalms 10:3 calls us to cultivate a profound moral clarity, aligning our affections and approvals with God's. It challenges us to resist the pervasive cultural currents that normalize or even glorify self-interest and greed. Instead, we are called to embody God's abhorrence for sin, to stand for justice, and to trust that even when the wicked appear to prosper, God's ultimate judgment and unwavering commitment to righteousness will prevail. Our hope is not in the fleeting successes of the ungodly but in the enduring justice and steadfast character of the LORD.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, subtly or overtly, "boast of my heart's desire" rather than seeking God's will and glory?**
* **How might I be tempted to "bless the covetous" in my own life, perhaps by admiring worldly success achieved through ungodly means or by overlooking unethical practices for personal gain?**
* **What specific actions can I take to cultivate a deeper alignment with what the LORD "abhorreth" and what He values, both personally and communally?**
* **How does this verse encourage me to trust in God's justice and sovereignty, even when unrighteousness seems to prevail and the wicked appear to prosper?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean that the wicked "boasteth of his heart's desire"?**

Answer: This phrase signifies that the wicked openly and proudly celebrate their own selfish inclinations, ambitions, and plans, rather than seeking or submitting to God's will. Their "heart's desire" (Hebrew _nephesh_ combined with _taʼăvâh_ for "soul's longing" or "appetite") is the ultimate authority in their lives. It implies a defiant self-sufficiency and a complete disregard for divine authority, where personal gratification and ungodly schemes are not hidden in shame but are openly glorified. This boasting is an act of self-exaltation, a public declaration of their independence from God and their commitment to their own sinful appetites, demonstrating a profound lack of remorse or humility.

**Why does the KJV say the wicked "blesseth the covetous"?**

Answer: The word "blesseth" (Hebrew _bârak_) here is used in the sense of commending, approving, or praising, rather than invoking divine favor. It indicates that the wicked not only engage in ungodliness themselves but also affirm and applaud others who are "covetous" (Hebrew _bâtsaʻ_, meaning greedy, rapacious, or ruthlessly acquisitive). This highlights a profound moral corruption where sin is not merely tolerated but is celebrated and encouraged within their sphere of influence. It shows a complete reversal of divine values, where those who gain through unjust means are honored rather than condemned, further emphasizing the wicked's opposition to God's righteous standards and their complicity in systemic injustice.

**What does "whom the LORD abhorreth" imply about God's character?**

Answer: This powerful declaration reveals God's absolute holiness and unwavering justice. The verb "abhorreth" (Hebrew _nâʼats_) signifies a profound, active detestation, scorn, and rejection. It means God despises and spurns what is contrary to His nature. This phrase implies that God is not indifferent to sin, particularly covetousness and the oppression it causes. Rather, He is actively opposed to it. It underscores His moral purity, His commitment to righteousness, and His promise of ultimate judgment against all forms of ungodliness, providing assurance that His character is the ultimate standard and that justice will ultimately prevail, even when it seems delayed.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 10:3, with its stark portrayal of the wicked's self-glorifying covetousness and God's righteous abhorrence, finds its ultimate fulfillment and resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "heart's desire" that the wicked boast of is the very essence of fallen humanity's rebellion against God, a desire for autonomy and self-rule that culminated in the rejection and crucifixion of the Son of God. Jesus, however, perfectly embodies the opposite: His "heart's desire" was always to do the will of His Father, even to the point of death on a cross, declaring, [I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but to do the will of him who sent me](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus' Will is to Do the Father's Will"). While the wicked "bless the covetous," celebrating unjust gain and worldly power, Christ utterly condemned covetousness, warning His disciples to [take heed and beware of all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions](/luke/12-15 "Luke 12:15 - Jesus Warns Against Covetousness") and demonstrating true blessedness in poverty of spirit and righteousness, as taught in [the Beatitudes](/matthew/5-3-6 "Matthew 5:3-6 - The Beatitudes"). The LORD's abhorrence of sin, so clearly stated in this verse, is fully manifested at the cross, where Christ, the sinless Lamb of God, bore the full weight of that divine wrath against sin, including covetousness and all forms of unrighteousness, becoming [sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God](/2-corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us"). Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ not only absorbed God's righteous abhorrence but also provides the only means by which a covetous heart can be transformed into one that delights in God's will, leading to true blessedness and eternal life, a hope that far surpasses the fleeting boasts of the wicked, as believers are [made alive together with Christ](/ephesians/2-1-5 "Ephesians 2:1-5 - Made Alive in Christ") by grace.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 94:4

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

Luke 12:19

And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, [and] be merry.

Zechariah 11:5

Whose possessors slay them, and hold themselves not guilty: and they that sell them say, Blessed [be] the LORD; for I am rich: and their own shepherds pity them not.

Zechariah 11:8

Three shepherds also I cut off in one month; and my soul lothed them, and their soul also abhorred me.

Micah 6:10

Are there yet the treasures of wickedness in the house of the wicked, and the scant measure [that is] abominable?

Micah 6:12

For the rich men thereof are full of violence, and the inhabitants thereof have spoken lies, and their tongue [is] deceitful in their mouth.

Deuteronomy 29:19

And it come to pass, when he heareth the words of this curse, that he bless himself in his heart, saying, I shall have peace, though I walk in the imagination of mine heart, to add drunkenness to thirst: