Psalms 37:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 37:20
20 But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.
Chapter Context
Psalms 37 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, truth, judgment. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 37:20
20 But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.
Analysis
The verse begins with emphatic certainty 'But the wicked shall perish,' contrasting promised satisfaction (v. 19). 'Enemies of the LORD' makes wickedness personal opposition to God Himself, warranting ultimate judgment. The imagery shifts to sacrifice: 'fat of lambs' refers to the choicest portions burned on the altar, consumed completely. 'Into smoke shall they consume away' depicts total annihilation—solid substance becoming insubstantial vapor, dispersing into nothing. This graphic image emphasizes the wicked's utter destruction, leaving no trace.
Historical Context
Israelites witnessed daily sacrifices where fat portions burned completely, producing smoke that ascended and dissipated. This familiar image powerfully communicated total consumption and disappearance.
Reflection
- How does the certainty of the wicked's final judgment affect your response to present injustice?
- What does it mean that opposing God's people makes one 'enemies of the LORD'?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Judges 5:31
- Evil: Psalms 68:2
- Parallel theme: Psalms 102:3, Luke 13:3