Psalms 36:12
There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise.
Original Language Analysis
שָׁ֣ם
H8033
נָ֭פְלוּ
fallen
H5307
נָ֭פְלוּ
fallen
Strong's:
H5307
Word #:
2 of 8
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
פֹּ֣עֲלֵי
There are the workers
H6466
פֹּ֣עֲלֵי
There are the workers
Strong's:
H6466
Word #:
3 of 8
to do or make (systematically and habitually), especially to practise
אָ֑וֶן
of iniquity
H205
אָ֑וֶן
of iniquity
Strong's:
H205
Word #:
4 of 8
strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol
וְלֹא
H3808
וְלֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
The certain downfall of evildoers was a consistent theme in wisdom literature and prophetic oracles. Israel's faith required trusting this eventual outcome despite present circumstances suggesting otherwise.
Questions for Reflection
- How does confidence in God's ultimate justice help you endure present injustice?
- What difference does it make that the wicked's fall is both certain and final?
Analysis & Commentary
The prophetic perfect tense 'are fallen... are cast down' describes future judgment with past tense certainty—what God decreed is accomplished regardless of timing. 'There' may indicate a specific place of judgment or simply 'behold!' The finality 'shall not be able to rise' emphasizes irreversible defeat. This conclusion answers the psalm's opening portrait of seemingly successful wickedness (vv. 1-4) with assurance that appearances deceive; God's judgment will ultimately vindicate righteousness and destroy evil, encouraging patient endurance.