Old Testament

Psalms 62:3

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 questions how long people will conspire against him, suggesting that their plans are futile and will lead to their downfall.

Author: David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written: Around 1000-500 BC
Genre: Poetry and worship
Original Audience: Worshipers of Israel

CBTClear Bible Translation

How long will you plot mischief against a man? You shall all be slain — like a leaning wall, like a tottering fence.

KJVKing James Version

How long will ye imagine mischief against a man? ye shall be slain all of you: as a bowing wall shall ye be, and as a tottering fence.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist questions how long people will conspire against him, suggesting that their plans are futile and will lead to their downfall. The imagery of a leaning wall and a tottering fence illustrates instability and weakness, indicating that those who plot evil will ultimately face destruction. The psalmist expresses confidence that their schemes will not succeed, as they are as fragile as a wall that is about to collapse. This reflects a broader theme of trust in God amidst adversity, emphasizing that while enemies may plot against the righteous, their efforts are ultimately in vain. The verse serves as a reminder that God is a protector and that those who rely on Him will stand firm, while those who oppose Him will falter. It highlights the contrast between the strength of the faithful and the weakness of those who engage in wickedness, reinforcing the idea that divine justice prevails over human scheming.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 62:3 to your life

When facing opposition or betrayal, remember that God sees all and will uphold those who trust in Him. Instead of retaliating against those who plot against you, focus on maintaining your integrity and faith. Trust that God will handle the situation in His timing and way.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 62:3 mean?

Psalms 62:3 expresses the psalmist's frustration with those who conspire against him, suggesting their plans are weak and will ultimately fail. The imagery of a leaning wall and tottering fence symbolizes their instability and impending downfall.

What is the meaning of 'leaning wall' in Psalms 62:3?

The 'leaning wall' in Psalms 62:3 represents something that appears strong but is actually weak and about to collapse. This imagery illustrates the fragility of those who plot evil against the righteous.

How can I apply Psalms 62:3 in my life?

You can apply Psalms 62:3 by trusting in God during times of opposition and focusing on maintaining your integrity. Instead of seeking revenge, rely on God's timing and justice to handle those who wrong you.

What themes are present in Psalms 62:3?

Key themes in Psalms 62:3 include trust in God, divine justice, the vulnerability of the wicked, and the strength of the righteous. It contrasts the stability of those who rely on God with the weakness of those who plot against them.

Book Summary

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.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

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