Old Testament
Psalms 34:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse emphasizes that God opposes those who commit evil acts.
- 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 face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes that God opposes those who commit evil acts. The 'face of the LORD' symbolizes His attention and disapproval towards wrongdoing. The phrase 'to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth' suggests that those who persist in evil will ultimately face judgment and their legacy will be erased. This serves as a warning that evil actions have serious consequences, and God is actively involved in justice. It reassures the faithful that God is on their side, protecting them from harm and ensuring that evil will not prevail in the end. The verse encourages believers to live righteously, knowing that God sees all and will act against those who do wrong.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 34:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and ensure they align with God's will. It reminds us that living righteously is essential, as God stands against evil. We should strive to do good and trust that God will protect us from harm and injustice.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 34:16 mean?
Psalms 34:16 means that God opposes those who commit evil acts. It highlights that God's attention is on wrongdoing, and those who persist in evil will face judgment and be forgotten.
What is the meaning of 'the face of the LORD' in Psalms 34:16?
In Psalms 34:16, 'the face of the LORD' symbolizes God's attention and disapproval towards those who do evil. It signifies that God is actively involved in justice and stands against wrongdoing.
How does Psalms 34:16 relate to divine justice?
Psalms 34:16 relates to divine justice by illustrating that God actively opposes evil and ensures that those who do wrong will not be remembered. It reassures believers that justice will prevail.
What can we learn from Psalms 34:16?
From Psalms 34:16, we learn the importance of living righteously and aligning our actions with God's will. It reminds us that evil has serious consequences and encourages us to trust in God's protection.

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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