Psalms 37:27

KJV

Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore.

KJV (with Strong's)

Depart {H5493} from evil {H7451}, and do {H6213}{H8798)} good {H2896}; and dwell {H7931}{H8798)} for evermore {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If you turn from evil and do good, you will live safely forever.

Berean Standard Bible

Turn away from evil and do good, so that you will abide forever.

American Standard Version

Depart from evil, and do good; And dwell for evermore.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 37:27 presents a foundational ethical and spiritual directive, encapsulating the essence of a life lived in alignment with God's will. It issues a dual command to actively turn away from wickedness and intentionally pursue righteousness, immediately followed by a profound promise of enduring stability and blessed existence. This concise verse serves as a cornerstone for understanding the interconnectedness of obedience, divine faithfulness, and the lasting inheritance promised to the righteous within the broader wisdom tradition of the Psalms.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 37 is a didactic (teaching) wisdom psalm, attributed to David, designed to encourage the righteous who are perplexed by the apparent prosperity of the wicked. Throughout the psalm, a stark contrast is drawn between the fleeting success of evildoers and the ultimate, enduring blessedness of those who trust in the Lord. It employs an acrostic structure (though not perfectly maintained in all sections), using successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet to begin stanzas, which aids memorization and emphasizes its instructional purpose. Verse 27 functions as a direct, imperative exhortation, providing practical guidance on how to live righteously in a world where injustice seems prevalent. It follows earlier calls to "trust in the Lord and do good" ([Psalms 37:3](/psalms/37-3 "Psalms 37:3 - Trust and Do Good")) and "delight yourself in the Lord" ([Psalms 37:4](/psalms/37-4 "Psalms 37:4 - Delight in the Lord")), reinforcing the active nature of faith.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Composed in ancient Israel, likely during the monarchy, Psalm 37 reflects the societal challenges of its time where the righteous often faced oppression or disadvantage while the wicked seemed to flourish. The concept of "inheriting the land" (mentioned repeatedly in [Psalms 37](/psalms/37 "Psalm 37 - The Destiny of the Righteous and the Wicked"), e.g., [Psalms 37:9](/psalms/37-9 "Psalms 37:9 - The Righteous Inherit the Land")) was deeply rooted in the Abrahamic covenant and the promise of the land of Canaan. For an Israelite, dwelling securely in the land was a tangible sign of God's blessing and covenant faithfulness. The psalm addresses the tension between immediate appearances and God's ultimate justice, common in wisdom literature. It reassures believers that God's moral order will ultimately prevail, and steadfast obedience leads to lasting security, contrasting with the temporary nature of the wicked's success.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Psalm 37 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Active Righteousness**, emphasizing that a life pleasing to God involves both a decisive turning *away* from sin ("depart from evil") and an intentional turning *towards* good works ("do good"). This dual aspect highlights that spiritual maturity is not merely passive abstinence but active engagement in God's purposes. Secondly, it speaks to **Divine Justice and Retribution**, reassuring the faithful that while the wicked may prosper for a time, their end is destruction, whereas the righteous, through their obedience, secure a lasting inheritance. This is a recurring theme in the psalm, as seen in the contrast between the fading of the wicked like grass ([Psalms 37:2](/psalms/37-2 "Psalms 37:2 - The Wicked Wither")) and the enduring inheritance of the righteous ([Psalms 37:29](/psalms/37-29 "Psalms 37:29 - The Righteous Inherit the Land")). Lastly, the promise to "dwell for evermore" points to **Enduring Blessing and Security**, which, while rooted in the earthly promise of the land, carries profound implications for spiritual stability and future hope, even echoing into eschatological promises of eternal life with God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Depart (Hebrew, _sûr_):** The Hebrew verb סוּר (_sûr_) means "to turn aside," "to remove," "to cease," or "to turn away from." It implies a decisive, active withdrawal or separation. It's not a passive avoidance but a deliberate and intentional act of distancing oneself from evil. This word is often used in contexts of repentance, signifying a complete change of direction from a sinful path.
* **Do good (Hebrew, _'asah tôb_):** The phrase עָשָׂה טוֹב (_'asah tôb_) combines the verb "to do" or "to make" (_'asah_) with the adjective "good" (_tôb_). This signifies that goodness is not merely an internal state or an absence of wrongdoing, but an active, outward expression. It calls for intentional, positive actions that align with God's character and commandments, such as acts of justice, mercy, kindness, and righteousness.
* **Dwell for evermore (Hebrew, _shakan l'olam_):** This phrase combines שָׁכַן (_shakan_), meaning "to settle down," "to abide," "to inhabit," or "to dwell," with לְעוֹלָם (_l'olam_), meaning "forever," "for always," or "for perpetuity." The verb _shakan_ often carries connotations of secure, stable dwelling, particularly in relation to God's dwelling among His people (e.g., the tabernacle, the Shekinah glory). When paired with _l'olam_, it conveys a promise of permanent, secure, and enduring existence, contrasting sharply with the temporary nature of the wicked's prosperity. While rooted in the earthly promise of inheriting the land, it also points to a spiritual and ultimately eternal security found in God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Depart from evil":** This is the first of two imperatives, a negative command. It calls for a conscious and deliberate turning away from all forms of evil—sinful behaviors, wicked intentions, harmful paths, and anything contrary to God's character and law. This requires discernment, self-control, and a firm resolve to disassociate oneself from unrighteousness. It is the foundational step in pursuing a life of godliness.
* **"and do good":** This is the second imperative, a positive command that complements the first. It's not enough to simply avoid evil; one must actively engage in righteousness. This involves intentional acts of kindness, justice, compassion, integrity, and obedience to God's will. It signifies a life that proactively seeks to honor God and bless others, reflecting His character in the world. This dual command emphasizes that true righteousness is both abstaining from wrong and performing right.
* **"and dwell for evermore":** This is the divine promise contingent upon obedience to the preceding commands. "Dwell" implies security, stability, and peaceful habitation. "For evermore" signifies perpetuity, an enduring and lasting state. In the immediate context of Psalm 37, this primarily refers to the righteous inheriting the land and enjoying lasting peace and prosperity, contrasting with the wicked's ultimate destruction. However, it also carries broader theological implications for spiritual security and the ultimate, eternal dwelling with God for those who walk in His ways.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 37:27 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Imperative**, as seen in the direct commands "Depart from evil" and "do good," which lend a sense of urgency and direct instruction to the reader. This didactic tone is characteristic of wisdom literature. The verse also utilizes **Parallelism**, specifically a form of **Synthetic Parallelism** or **Complementary Parallelism**, where the second and third clauses expand upon or complete the thought of the first. "Depart from evil" and "do good" form an antithetical pair in concept (turning from vs. turning to) but a complementary pair in practice, defining the two necessary aspects of righteousness. The final clause, "and dwell for evermore," serves as a **Promise** or **Consequence**, directly linking the obedient actions to a blessed outcome, thereby providing motivation and assurance. The entire verse functions as a concise **Aphorism**, a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or principle, making it memorable and impactful for ethical instruction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 37:27 resonates deeply with the broader biblical emphasis on active righteousness and the faithfulness of God to those who walk in His ways. It underscores a fundamental principle of covenant theology: obedience leads to blessing, while disobedience leads to consequences. This verse teaches that true faith is not passive but manifests in concrete actions—a decisive turning from sin and a proactive engagement in good works. This dual injunction mirrors the very nature of repentance (turning from sin) and conversion (turning to God and His ways). The promise of "dwelling for evermore" connects to God's enduring covenant faithfulness, assuring His people of lasting security and inheritance, both in their earthly lives and in the ultimate eschatological hope of eternal life in His presence. It reflects God's character as a just God who rewards the righteous and punishes the wicked, providing comfort and motivation for those who seek to live godly lives amidst a world that often seems to favor the unrighteous.

* [Proverbs 3:7](/proverbs/3-7 "Proverbs 3:7 - Fear the Lord and Depart from Evil")
* [1 Peter 3:11](/1_peter/3-11 "1 Peter 3:11 - Turn from Evil and Do Good")
* [Matthew 5:5](/matthew/5-5 "Matthew 5:5 - The Meek Inherit the Earth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 37:27 offers timeless wisdom that challenges believers to a dynamic and intentional walk with God. It reminds us that our faith is not merely a set of beliefs but a call to action. "Departing from evil" requires constant vigilance, self-examination, and a willingness to repent and turn away from anything that displeases God, whether it be harmful habits, negative attitudes, or sinful desires. This is an ongoing process of sanctification. Equally important is the command to "do good." This calls us to be proactive agents of God's love and justice in the world, seeking opportunities to serve others, promote righteousness, speak truth, and extend compassion. It means actively cultivating virtues like kindness, generosity, integrity, and humility. The promise to "dwell for evermore" serves as a powerful motivation and source of hope, assuring us that our efforts are not in vain. God is faithful to His promises, and a life lived in obedience to Him leads to true, lasting security and blessing, far surpassing any temporary gains the world might offer. This verse encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, trusting that God's ultimate justice and goodness will prevail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "evil" in my life or society do I need to more decisively "depart from" today?**
* **In what concrete ways can I actively "do good" in my immediate sphere of influence (family, work, community)?**
* **How does the promise of "dwelling for evermore" shape my priorities and decisions in the face of temporary challenges or temptations?**
* **Am I equally committed to both turning away from sin and actively pursuing righteousness, or do I tend to focus on one more than the other?**

### FAQ
**What does "depart from evil" truly mean in practice for a modern believer?**

Answer: "Depart from evil" means more than just avoiding overt sins like lying or stealing. In practice, it involves a comprehensive turning away from anything that is contrary to God's character and will. This includes renouncing sinful thoughts, attitudes (like bitterness, envy, or pride), harmful speech, and destructive habits. It also means disengaging from cultural norms or societal pressures that compromise biblical principles. Practically, it requires discernment, a conscious choice to say "no" to temptation, and a commitment to spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and accountability, which strengthen one's resolve to walk in purity. It's a continuous process of repentance and sanctification, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

**Is "dwell for evermore" only about earthly prosperity or does it refer to eternal life?**

Answer: In the immediate context of Psalm 37, "dwell for evermore" primarily refers to the righteous inheriting the land and enjoying lasting security, peace, and prosperity in their earthly lives, contrasting with the fleeting success and ultimate destruction of the wicked. This reflects the covenant promises made to Israel regarding their dwelling in the promised land ([Deuteronomy 4:40](/deuteronomy/4-40 "Deuteronomy 4:40 - Long Life in the Land")). However, biblical promises often have multiple layers of fulfillment. The phrase "for evermore" (לְעוֹלָם, _l'olam_) frequently carries connotations of perpetuity or eternity in the Old Testament. Therefore, while rooted in an earthly promise, it also foreshadows and points to the ultimate, eternal security and blessed existence that believers will experience with God in the new heavens and new earth, a concept fully revealed in the New Testament. It encompasses both a stable, blessed life on earth and an eternal inheritance.

**How does this verse relate to the New Testament teaching on grace, not works, for salvation?**

Answer: Psalms 37:27, like much of the Old Testament, emphasizes obedience and good works as the pathway to blessing and a secure future. This does not contradict the New Testament teaching that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith")). Rather, it complements it. The Old Testament consistently teaches that genuine faith *produces* good works. Our "departing from evil" and "doing good" are not the *means* by which we earn salvation, but rather the *evidence* and *fruit* of a saving faith that has been transformed by God's grace. When we are saved by grace, the Holy Spirit enables us to obey God's commands and live a life that reflects His righteousness. Thus, the commands in Psalms 37:27 describe the transformed life of a believer who has already received God's grace and is now empowered to walk in a manner pleasing to Him ([Titus 2:11-14](/titus/2-11 "Titus 2:11-14 - Grace Teaches Us to Live Godly Lives")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 37:27 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent example of one who perfectly "departed from evil" and "did good." As the sinless Son of God, Jesus never succumbed to temptation or engaged in any form of evil ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus was Tempted but without Sin")). His entire earthly ministry was characterized by actively "doing good"—healing the sick, casting out demons, teaching truth, feeding the hungry, and ultimately offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin ([Acts 10:38](/acts/10-38 "Acts 10:38 - Jesus Went About Doing Good")). Furthermore, it is through Christ's atoning work that humanity is *enabled* to "depart from evil." His death on the cross broke the power of sin, and His resurrection provides new life, empowering believers to turn from their former ways ([Romans 6:1-11](/romans/6-1 "Romans 6:1-11 - Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ")). The Holy Spirit, given through Christ, indwells believers, empowering them to "do good" and live a life of active righteousness, bearing the fruit of the Spirit ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Finally, the promise to "dwell for evermore" is fully realized in Christ. He is our eternal dwelling place, and through Him, believers are promised an eternal inheritance and a secure dwelling with God in the new heavens and new earth ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2 "John 14:2-3 - Jesus Prepares a Place for Us"); [Revelation 21:3-4](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3-4 - God Dwells with His People")). Thus, Christ is both the perfect embodiment of the command and the gracious enabler and guarantor of the promise.

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 34:14

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.

Proverbs 16:6

¶ By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD [men] depart from evil.

1 John 2:16

For all that [is] in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

1 John 2:17

And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

Hebrews 13:16

But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Hebrews 13:21

Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 5:15

See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].