Old Testament
Psalms 58:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Let them melt away like waters that run continually; when he bends his bow to shoot his arrows, let them be as cut in pieces.
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Let them melt away as waters which run continually: when he bendeth his bow to shoot his arrows, let them be as cut in pieces.
What Psalms 58:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a desire for the wicked to be defeated and rendered powerless. The imagery of melting water suggests that just as water flows away and disappears, so too should the enemies of righteousness vanish. The reference to bending a bow and shooting arrows symbolizes the act of attacking or confronting these adversaries. The psalmist wishes that their efforts to harm others would be futile, resulting in their destruction. This verse reflects a deep yearning for justice and the triumph of good over evil, emphasizing the belief that those who act unjustly will ultimately face consequences for their actions. The vivid imagery serves to illustrate the psalmist's plea for divine intervention against those who oppress and harm others, reinforcing the idea that God will protect the innocent and punish the wicked.
How to apply Psalms 58:7 to your life
This verse encourages believers to trust in God's justice when facing opposition or injustice. It reminds us to pray for the defeat of evil and to have faith that God will protect the innocent. In our own lives, we can seek to stand against wrongdoing and support those who are oppressed, knowing that justice will ultimately prevail.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Keep studying Psalms 58:7
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 58:7 mean?
Psalms 58:7 expresses a desire for the wicked to be defeated and powerless, using imagery of melting water to illustrate how they should vanish. It also depicts the futility of their attacks, symbolized by bending a bow and shooting arrows, emphasizing a plea for divine justice.
What is the meaning of 'melt away like waters' in Psalms 58:7?
The phrase 'melt away like waters' suggests that the wicked should disappear as easily as flowing water, indicating their lack of strength and permanence. It conveys a wish for their swift defeat and removal from the presence of the righteous.
How does Psalms 58:7 relate to justice?
Psalms 58:7 relates to justice by calling for the downfall of those who act unjustly. It reflects the belief that God will ultimately protect the innocent and punish those who oppress others.
What themes are present in Psalms 58:7?
The themes in Psalms 58:7 include justice, divine protection, the destruction of evil, and the powerlessness of the wicked. It emphasizes the importance of prayer for deliverance and the triumph of righteousness over wrongdoing.
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