Psalms 37:32
The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him.
Original Language Analysis
צוֹפֶ֣ה
watcheth
H6822
צוֹפֶ֣ה
watcheth
Strong's:
H6822
Word #:
1 of 5
properly, to lean forward, i.e., to peer into the distance; by implication, to observe, await
רָ֭שָׁע
The wicked
H7563
רָ֭שָׁע
The wicked
Strong's:
H7563
Word #:
2 of 5
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
Historical Context
David wrote from experience of being hunted by Saul (1 Samuel 19-26) and betrayed by close associates. In the Greco-Roman world, early Christians faced similar surveillance, with neighbors reporting those who refused emperor worship or pagan festivals.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you felt watched or opposed because of your Christian witness and testimony?
- How should awareness of hostile scrutiny affect your conduct—toward paranoia or confidence in God?
- Why does righteousness provoke such intense opposition rather than indifference or tolerance?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The wicked watcheth the righteous (צוֹפֶה רָשָׁע לַצַּדִּיק, tzofeh rasha la-tzaddik)—Tzafah means to spy, observe with hostile intent. And seeketh to slay him (וּמְבַקֵּשׁ לַהֲמִיתוֹ, u-mevakesh lahamito)—This isn't paranoia but reality: righteous living provokes persecution (2 Timothy 3:12).
David experienced this from Saul's murderous pursuit to Absalom's rebellion. Jesus was watched constantly by religious leaders seeking accusations (Luke 14:1, 20:20). The wicked's watchfulness betrays their insecurity—they cannot ignore righteousness. Yet verse 33 promises divine protection against this threat.