Old Testament
Psalms 129:4
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the psalmist declares the righteousness of the Lord, emphasizing that God has severed the bonds that the wicked have used to oppress others.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
The LORD is righteous; he has cut apart the cords of the wicked.
The LORD is righteous: he hath cut asunder the cords of the wicked.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist declares the righteousness of the Lord, emphasizing that God has severed the bonds that the wicked have used to oppress others. The 'cords of the wicked' symbolize the power and influence that evil people exert over the innocent and the faithful. By stating that God has 'cut apart' these cords, the psalmist reassures believers that God actively intervenes in human affairs to bring justice and liberation. This act of cutting signifies a decisive and powerful action by God to free His people from the grip of evil. It highlights the theme of divine justice, where God not only sees the suffering of the righteous but also takes action to rectify the situation. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His commitment to uphold righteousness, encouraging believers to trust in His power to deliver them from oppression.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 129:4 to your life
In our lives, we may face situations where we feel oppressed or overwhelmed by evil. This verse encourages us to trust in God's righteousness and His ability to deliver us from such circumstances. We can find hope in knowing that God sees our struggles and will act on our behalf.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 129:4 mean?
Psalms 129:4 expresses that the Lord is just and has removed the power of the wicked, symbolized by 'cords.' This signifies God's intervention to free the oppressed from evil influences.
What is the meaning of 'cords of the wicked' in Psalms 129:4?
The 'cords of the wicked' represent the control and oppression that evil people exert over others. In this verse, it indicates that God has severed these ties, freeing the righteous from their grasp.
How does Psalms 129:4 relate to divine justice?
Psalms 129:4 highlights divine justice by showing that God not only acknowledges the suffering of the righteous but also acts to liberate them from the power of the wicked.
What can we learn from Psalms 129:4?
From Psalms 129:4, we learn to trust in God's righteousness and His ability to deliver us from oppression. It encourages believers to have hope in God's commitment to justice.

The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
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