Psalms 9:18

For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall [not] perish for ever.

For the needy {H34} shall not alway {H5331} be forgotten {H7911}: the expectation {H8615} of the poor {H6041}{H6035} shall not perish {H6} for ever {H5703}.

For the poor will not always be forgotten or the hope of the needy perish forever.

For the needy will not always be forgotten; nor the hope of the oppressed forever dashed.

For the needy shall not alway be forgotten, Nor the expectation of the poor perish for ever.

Commentary

Psalm 9:18 offers a powerful declaration of God's unwavering commitment to justice and His care for the vulnerable. This verse serves as a beacon of hope, assuring those who are oppressed or suffering that their plight is not overlooked by the Almighty.

Context

Psalm 9 is a psalm of David, often categorized as a psalm of thanksgiving and praise to God for His righteous judgment and deliverance from enemies. It contrasts the ultimate fate of the wicked, who are overthrown by God's justice, with the secure hope of the righteous and the oppressed. The surrounding verses highlight God's role as a just judge who sits on His throne, bringing judgment upon nations and hearing the cry of the humble. This verse specifically addresses the often-perceived delay in divine intervention, affirming that it is not an eternal forgetfulness.

Key Themes

  • Divine Remembrance and Justice: The core message is that God does not forget the suffering of the needy and the poor. While their distress may seem prolonged, God's justice will ultimately prevail, bringing an end to their oppression.
  • Enduring Hope for the Afflicted: The "expectation of the poor" refers to their hope or confident anticipation of God's intervention. This verse assures them that this hope will not "perish for ever," meaning it will ultimately be fulfilled and not be brought to nothing.
  • God's Vindication of the Oppressed: In a world where the powerful often exploit the weak, this verse stands as a divine promise that the tables will turn. God is the ultimate defender of those who have no human advocate, ensuring their vindication and deliverance.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "needy" is 'evyon (אֶבְיוֹן), which often describes someone in deep want, miserable, or afflicted. It points to their helpless state, making God's intervention all the more significant. The term "poor" here comes from 'anavim (עֲנָוִים), which can mean the humble, meek, or afflicted. This often carries a spiritual connotation, referring to those who are lowly in spirit and rely solely on God, rather than on worldly power or wealth. Their "expectation" is tiqvah (תִּקְוָה), a strong word for hope, often implying a cord or line that holds fast, signifying a firm and enduring confidence.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalm 9:18 offers immense comfort and encouragement. If you are experiencing hardship, injustice, or feel forgotten, this verse reminds you that God sees your situation and hears your cry. Your hope in Him is not in vain; it will not perish. It also serves as a call to action for the church and individual Christians to embody God's heart for the vulnerable, actively working for justice and compassion for the poor and oppressed in society, knowing that God Himself is their ultimate champion. Trust in God's perfect timing and His unwavering commitment to righteousness.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 12:5 (11 votes)

    For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set [him] in safety [from him that] puffeth at him.

  • Proverbs 23:18 (10 votes)

    For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

  • Proverbs 24:14 (6 votes)

    So [shall] the knowledge of wisdom [be] unto thy soul: when thou hast found [it], then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

  • Psalms 102:20 (5 votes)

    To hear the groaning of the prisoner; to loose those that are appointed to death;

  • James 2:5 (5 votes)

    Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

  • Psalms 102:17 (4 votes)

    He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer.

  • Psalms 109:31 (4 votes)

    For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save [him] from those that condemn his soul.