Psalms 37:12

KJV

The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.

KJV (with Strong's)

The wicked {H7563} plotteth {H2161} against the just {H6662}, and gnasheth {H2786}{H8802)} upon him with his teeth {H8127}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The wicked plots against the righteous and grinds his teeth at him;

Berean Standard Bible

The wicked scheme against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them,

American Standard Version

The wicked plotteth against the just, And gnasheth upon him with his teeth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 37:12 vividly portrays the active and malicious intent of the wicked against the righteous. It describes their deliberate plotting and intense, visceral rage, setting a stark contrast between the ungodly and the just. This verse serves as a foundational statement within Psalm 37, establishing the reality of opposition faced by those who walk in God's ways, thereby preparing the reader for the psalm's subsequent assurance of divine justice and the ultimate vindication of the upright.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm, likely an acrostic (though imperfectly preserved in some traditions), attributed to David. It stands as a didactic instruction, offering counsel to believers on how to navigate a world where the wicked often appear to prosper while the righteous suffer. The psalm's overarching message is one of patient trust in Yahweh, urging believers not to fret or be envious of evildoers, but to commit their way to the Lord. Verse 12 specifically introduces the active antagonism of the wicked, immediately preceding the Lord's dismissive reaction to their schemes in [Psalm 37:13](/psalms/37-13 "Psalm 37:13 - The Lord Laughs at the Wicked"), which states that "the Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming." This juxtaposition highlights the futility of the wicked's malice from a divine perspective, foreshadowing their inevitable downfall.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Composed during a period of monarchy in ancient Israel, likely by King David, this psalm reflects the challenges of governance and spiritual leadership in a society where justice was often elusive. The "wicked" (`rasha'`) were not merely those who committed isolated sins, but individuals whose entire lifestyle was characterized by a rebellious disregard for God's covenant and His laws. They often held positions of power or influence, enabling them to oppress the "just" (`tsaddiq`), who were those committed to righteousness and covenant faithfulness. The imagery of plotting and gnashing teeth would have been readily understood as expressions of deep-seated animosity and aggressive intent within the cultural milieu of the ancient Near East, where public displays of anger and threats were common, often preceding acts of violence or injustice.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent throughout [Psalm 37](/psalms/37 "Psalm 37 - The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked"). Firstly, it underscores the **malice and active opposition of the wicked** against the righteous, establishing the reality of spiritual warfare and persecution that believers often face. Secondly, it highlights the **persecution of the just**, portraying them as targets of deliberate scheming and overt aggression, a theme echoed in other wisdom literature like [Proverbs 1:10-19](/proverbs/1-10-19 "Proverbs 1:10-19 - Warning Against Evil Companions"). Thirdly, by depicting this malevolent intent, the verse sets the stage for the psalm's central assurance of ** divine justice and ultimate vindication**. Though the wicked plot, the psalm consistently reassures the reader that the Lord sees their actions and will ultimately intervene to uphold the righteous and bring the wicked to ruin, as seen in [Psalm 37:17](/psalms/37-17 "Psalm 37:17 - The Lord Upholds the Righteous").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Plotteth (Hebrew, _zâmam_):** From the primitive root H2161, meaning "to plan, usually in a bad sense; consider, devise, imagine, plot, purpose, think (evil)." This word implies a deliberate, calculated, and often evil intention. It is not a spontaneous act of anger but a premeditated design to inflict harm or injustice. The use of this verb emphasizes the methodical and insidious nature of the wicked's antagonism, suggesting a deep-seated animosity that translates into strategic action aimed at undermining or destroying the righteous.
* **Gnasheth (Hebrew, _châraq_):** From the primitive root H2786, meaning "to grate the teeth; gnash." This vivid onomatopoeic word describes the grinding of teeth, a physical manifestation of intense rage, frustration, malice, or despair. It conveys a visceral, uncontrolled fury and a desire to inflict pain or destruction. This imagery powerfully communicates the bitter, unbridled hostility of the wicked, suggesting a violent and aggressive intent that goes beyond mere dislike, bordering on a desire to consume or tear apart their victim.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The wicked plotteth against the just":** This clause establishes the primary actors and their relationship. "The wicked" (Hebrew: _râshâʻ_) refers to those who are morally corrupt, defiant against God's law, and actively engaged in wrongdoing. "The just" (Hebrew: _tsaddîyq_) denotes those who are righteous, upright, and live in accordance with God's will. The verb "plotteth" underscores the deliberate and strategic nature of the wicked's antagonism. It highlights that their opposition is not accidental or incidental but a calculated effort to undermine, harm, or destroy the righteous. This reveals a fundamental spiritual conflict between two opposing ways of life: one aligned with God's will, the other in rebellion against it.
* **"and gnasheth upon him with his teeth":** This second clause intensifies the portrayal of the wicked's malice, moving from internal plotting to an outward, physical expression of rage. "Gnasheth upon him with his teeth" is a powerful idiom signifying extreme anger, frustration, and aggressive hostility. It conveys a visceral, almost animalistic fury, indicative of a deep-seated hatred and a desire to devour or tear down the object of their wrath. This imagery emphasizes the intense, personal animosity directed at the just, revealing the depth of the wicked's malevolence and their impotent rage in the face of the righteous's steadfastness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its message. **Imagery** is central, particularly in the phrase "gnasheth upon him with his teeth," which evokes a vivid mental picture of uncontrolled rage and aggressive intent, making the wicked's hostility palpable. This is a form of **Metonymy**, where the physical action (gnashing teeth) stands for the intense emotion (fury and malice) it represents. The verse also utilizes **Antithesis** by presenting a clear opposition between "the wicked" and "the just," highlighting the fundamental moral and spiritual divide between these two groups. This stark contrast sets the stage for the psalm's overarching theme of divine justice. Furthermore, the active verbs "plotteth" and "gnasheth" imbue the wicked with a sense of malevolent **Personification**, presenting their evil as an active, living force directed against the righteous, emphasizing the personal and deliberate nature of their antagonism.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 37:12 powerfully articulates the reality of spiritual conflict and the inherent animosity of the ungodly toward those who walk in righteousness. This opposition is not merely incidental but is often a deliberate, calculated, and intensely emotional attack. Theologically, it underscores the truth that living righteously in a fallen world will inevitably invite hostility from those who reject God's ways. However, this verse also implicitly sets the stage for the broader theological message of Psalm 37: that while the wicked plot, their schemes are ultimately futile in the face of God's sovereign justice. The Lord sees, knows, and will ultimately intervene, ensuring the vindication of the righteous and the downfall of the wicked. This provides profound comfort and a call to patient endurance for believers, reminding them that their ultimate security rests in God, not in the absence of opposition.

* [Psalm 64:2](/psalms/64-2 "Psalm 64:2 - Hide Me from the Wicked")
* [Proverbs 24:15-16](/proverbs/24-15-16 "Proverbs 24:15-16 - The Righteous Fall and Rise")
* [Acts 7:54](/acts/7-54 "Acts 7:54 - The Stoning of Stephen")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 37:12 offers a sobering yet realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by believers. It reminds us that hostility, plotting, and even visceral rage from those who oppose God's ways are not unexpected but are, in fact, a common experience for the righteous. In a world increasingly polarized, where Christian values are often met with disdain or outright aggression, this verse encourages us not to be surprised or disheartened by such opposition. Instead, it calls us to a deeper trust in God's sovereign control. When we encounter the "gnashing of teeth"—whether it be through slander, persecution, active attempts to undermine our faith, or systemic injustice—we are to remember that the Lord sees all. Our response should not be fear or retaliation, but steadfastness in faith, patient endurance, and continued commitment to doing good, knowing that God is our ultimate vindicator and judge. This verse ultimately reinforces the psalm's overarching message: fret not, trust in the Lord, and do good, for His justice will prevail, and His timing is perfect.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the deliberate nature of the wicked's plotting (as described in this verse) impact your perspective on opposition you may face in your life or ministry?**
* **In what ways might the "gnashing of teeth" manifest in contemporary society, and how are believers called to respond to such expressions of hostility in a Christ-like manner?**
* **How does the knowledge that God sees and will ultimately judge the wicked provide comfort and strength to the righteous, enabling them to persevere without fretting?**

### FAQ
**Does "gnashing of teeth" only refer to physical anger, or does it have a deeper meaning?**

Answer: While "gnashing of teeth" certainly conveys intense physical anger and rage, its meaning extends deeper, particularly in biblical contexts. In Psalms 37:12, it represents a visceral, uncontrolled malice and a desire to harm or destroy. It signifies a deep-seated hatred and frustration directed at the righteous. In the New Testament, this phrase often describes the anguish and despair of those cast out of God's presence, as seen in [Matthew 8:12](/matthew/8-12 "Matthew 8:12 - Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth") and [Matthew 13:42](/matthew/13-42 "Matthew 13:42 - Furnace of Fire"). In these instances, it indicates the bitter regret, pain, and impotent rage of those who realize their eternal condemnation. So, while rooted in physical expression, it powerfully symbolizes profound spiritual and emotional torment, whether it be malicious anger or ultimate despair.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 37:12, with its stark portrayal of the wicked plotting and gnashing their teeth against the just, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent "Just One" (Greek: _dikaios_), against whom the wicked—represented by the religious and political authorities of His day—conspired and raged with unparalleled malice. From the moment of His birth, Herod "plotted" to kill Him ([Matthew 2:16](/matthew/2-16 "Matthew 2:16 - Herod Kills the Children")), and throughout His ministry, the Pharisees and Sadducees constantly sought to trap and destroy Him ([Matthew 12:14](/matthew/12-14 "Matthew 12:14 - Plot to Destroy Jesus")). The "gnashing of teeth" against Him reached its crescendo at His trial and crucifixion, where He endured the scorn, mockery, and intense hatred of those who rejected Him ([Matthew 27:39-44](/matthew/27-39-44 "Matthew 27:39-44 - Mocking Jesus")). Yet, in His suffering, Christ perfectly embodied the psalmist's call to trust in the Lord and not to fret. He did not retaliate but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). His ultimate vindication through resurrection and ascension demonstrates that though the wicked plot and rage, their efforts are futile against God's sovereign plan. Thus, Christ's experience validates the truth of Psalms 37:12 while simultaneously offering the ultimate hope: the "Just One" was indeed persecuted, but He was also ultimately glorified, securing eternal justice and salvation for all who trust in Him ([Acts 3:14](/acts/3-14 "Acts 3:14 - Denying the Holy and Just One")).

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 35:16

With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth.

Micah 2:1

¶ Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.

Daniel 8:12

And an host was given [him] against the daily [sacrifice] by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practised, and prospered.

Psalms 31:13

For I have heard the slander of many: fear [was] on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.

Daniel 8:24

And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.

1 Samuel 23:7

¶ And it was told Saul that David was come to Keilah. And Saul said, God hath delivered him into mine hand; for he is shut in, by entering into a town that hath gates and bars.

1 Samuel 23:9

And David knew that Saul secretly practised mischief against him; and he said to Abiathar the priest, Bring hither the ephod.