Psalms 34:16

The face of the LORD [is] against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.

The face {H6440} of the LORD {H3068} is against them that do {H6213} evil {H7451}, to cut off {H3772} the remembrance {H2143} of them from the earth {H776}.

But the face of ADONAI opposes those who do evil, to cut off all memory of them from the earth.

But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to wipe out all memory of them from the earth.

The face of Jehovah is against them that do evil, To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.

Psalm 34:16 declares God's active opposition to those who practice wickedness, promising a complete eradication of their legacy.

Context

This verse is part of a wisdom psalm attributed to David, likely composed after his escape from King Achish (Abimelech) in Gath, as described in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. Psalm 34 often contrasts the experiences of the righteous and the wicked. While Psalm 34:15 speaks of the Lord's eyes and ears being attentive to the righteous, verse 16 presents the stark antithesis: His face is set against the wicked.

Key Themes

  • Divine Justice: The verse emphasizes God's unwavering commitment to justice. He is not passive but actively opposes evil and those who commit it. This highlights God's righteous character and His role as the ultimate judge.
  • Consequences of Wickedness: The most striking consequence mentioned is the "cutting off the remembrance" of the wicked. This is more than just physical death; it implies the erasure of their name, influence, and legacy from human memory and perhaps from God's record.
  • God's Sovereignty: This passage reaffirms God's supreme authority over the destinies of individuals. He has the power to bless the righteous and to bring about the downfall and oblivion of the wicked.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "The face of the LORD" (Hebrew: Pā·nê Yah·weh) signifies God's direct and personal attention. While elsewhere it can imply favor or presence, here it denotes a posture of active judgment and opposition. It's not merely His disapproval, but His determined action. To "cut off the remembrance of them" (Hebrew: zikram) speaks to the profound disgrace and ultimate futility of a life lived in wickedness. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, to have one's name and legacy endure was of paramount importance; to be forgotten was a severe curse, signifying a complete loss of impact and honor. This concept is echoed in Proverbs 10:7, which states, "The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot."

Practical Application

Psalm 34:16 serves as both a solemn warning and a source of encouragement. For those who persist in evil, it underscores the grave spiritual and eternal consequences of their actions, reminding them that God’s justice will prevail. Their influence and memory, no matter how seemingly powerful in life, are ultimately perishable before God. Conversely, for the righteous, this verse offers comfort and reassurance that God sees the injustices of the world. While evil may seem to triumph temporarily, God's active opposition ensures that true justice will ultimately be served, affirming His ultimate control and the eventual vindication of His people.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Proverbs 10:7

    ¶ The memory of the just [is] blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.

  • Jeremiah 44:11

    Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will set my face against you for evil, and to cut off all Judah.

  • Jeremiah 17:13

    O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, [and] they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters.

  • Leviticus 17:10

    ¶ And whatsoever man [there be] of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, that eateth any manner of blood; I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood, and will cut him off from among his people.

  • Job 18:17

    His remembrance shall perish from the earth, and he shall have no name in the street.

  • Amos 9:4

    And though they go into captivity before their enemies, thence will I command the sword, and it shall slay them: and I will set mine eyes upon them for evil, and not for good.

  • Psalms 10:16

    The LORD [is] King for ever and ever: the heathen are perished out of his land.
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