Psalms 37:13

Authorized King James Version

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The Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming.

Original Language Analysis

אֲדֹנָ֥י The Lord H136
אֲדֹנָ֥י The Lord
Strong's: H136
Word #: 1 of 8
the lord (used as a proper name of god only)
יִשְׂחַק shall laugh H7832
יִשְׂחַק shall laugh
Strong's: H7832
Word #: 2 of 8
to laugh (in pleasure or detraction); by implication, to play
ל֑וֹ H0
ל֑וֹ
Strong's: H0
Word #: 3 of 8
כִּֽי H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's: H3588
Word #: 4 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
רָ֝אָ֗ה at him for he seeth H7200
רָ֝אָ֗ה at him for he seeth
Strong's: H7200
Word #: 5 of 8
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
כִּֽי H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's: H3588
Word #: 6 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יָבֹ֥א is coming H935
יָבֹ֥א is coming
Strong's: H935
Word #: 7 of 8
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
יוֹמֽוֹ׃ that his day H3117
יוֹמֽוֹ׃ that his day
Strong's: H3117
Word #: 8 of 8
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis & Commentary

God's laughter isn't frivolous but judicial—He mocks those who mock Him (Psalm 2:4), showing divine sovereignty over human rebellion. The phrase 'his day is coming' refers to appointed judgment, individually and ultimately. This day is certain ('seeth') from God's eternal perspective; He knows what the wicked don't—their doom approaches. Divine laughter expresses contempt for pretensions challenging omnipotence, assuring believers that God isn't threatened by wickedness but amused by its futile opposition to His purposes.

Historical Context

Ancient kings sat in judgment on their thrones, passing sentence on rebels. God's laughter depicts Him as cosmic King who will execute judgment on His wicked subjects.

Questions for Reflection

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