Old Testament
Habakkuk 1:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They are terrifying and fearsome; their judgment and dignity come from themselves.
Compare translations
They are terrible and dreadful: their judgment and their dignity shall proceed of themselves.
What Habakkuk 1:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Habakkuk 1:7, the prophet describes a group of people or a nation that is both terrifying and fearsome. This description highlights their power and the impact they have on others. The phrase 'their judgment and dignity come from themselves' suggests that they rely on their own authority and strength rather than any divine or external source. This self-sufficiency can lead to arrogance and a lack of accountability. The verse serves as a warning about the dangers of pride and the consequences of relying solely on one's own power. It reflects the broader theme of God's sovereignty and the eventual judgment that will come upon those who act unjustly. Habakkuk is grappling with the reality of evil and injustice in the world, and this verse encapsulates the fearsome nature of those who seem to thrive on oppression and violence, raising questions about justice and divine intervention.
How to apply Habakkuk 1:7 to your life
This verse reminds us to be cautious of pride and self-reliance. We should seek guidance and strength from God rather than depending solely on our own abilities. Recognizing our limitations can lead to humility and a deeper reliance on divine wisdom in our decisions and actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Habakkuk Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Habakkuk 1:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Habakkuk 1:7
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Habakkuk
- Author
- Habakkuk the prophet
- Written
- Around 610 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- The kingdom of Judah
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Habakkuk 1:7 mean?
Habakkuk 1:7 describes a powerful and fearsome group that relies on their own judgment and authority. This self-sufficiency highlights their arrogance and the dangers of depending solely on one's own strength.
What is the meaning of 'terrifying and fearsome' in Habakkuk 1:7?
The phrase 'terrifying and fearsome' refers to a group or nation that instills fear in others due to their power and influence. It emphasizes their ability to dominate and oppress without regard for justice.
What does 'their judgment and dignity come from themselves' mean in Habakkuk 1:7?
This phrase indicates that the group derives their authority and self-worth from their own actions and decisions, rather than from a higher moral or divine standard. It suggests a lack of accountability and humility.
How does Habakkuk 1:7 relate to themes of pride and judgment?
The verse illustrates the dangers of pride by showing how self-reliant individuals or nations can become oppressive. It also reflects the theme of divine judgment, indicating that such arrogance will ultimately lead to consequences.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.