Old Testament
Psalms 73:18
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 reflects on the fate of the wicked, suggesting that God has placed them in precarious situations, akin to standing on slippery ground.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Surely you set them in slippery places; you cast them down to destruction.
Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist reflects on the fate of the wicked, suggesting that God has placed them in precarious situations, akin to standing on slippery ground. This imagery conveys the idea that their success and stability are temporary and can lead to their downfall. The psalmist recognizes that while the wicked may seem to prosper, their ultimate end is destruction. This serves as a reminder that earthly success is fleeting and that true security comes from a relationship with God. The verse emphasizes God's sovereignty in judging the wicked and highlights the contrast between their apparent prosperity and the eventual consequences of their actions. It reassures the faithful that God is aware of injustices and will ultimately bring about justice, even if it is not immediately visible. This understanding can provide comfort and perspective to those who may feel envious of the wicked's success, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in God's plan.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 73:18 to your life
This verse encourages believers to trust in God's justice, especially when they see the wicked prospering. It reminds us that earthly success is not a measure of righteousness. Instead, we should focus on our relationship with God and remain faithful, knowing that He will ultimately bring justice.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 73:18 mean about the wicked's fate?
Psalms 73:18 illustrates that God places the wicked in unstable situations, symbolized by 'slippery places.' This imagery suggests that their apparent success is temporary and can lead to their downfall. The verse reassures believers that despite the prosperity of the wicked, their ultimate end is destruction, emphasizing God's control over justice.
How can Psalms 73:18 provide comfort to believers?
This verse offers comfort by reminding believers that God is aware of injustices and will ultimately judge the wicked. It encourages them to focus on their relationship with God rather than envying the success of those who do wrong. Knowing that true security comes from faith in God helps believers remain steadfast during challenging times.
What is the significance of 'slippery places' in this verse?
The term 'slippery places' signifies instability and danger. It highlights that the wicked, despite their seeming prosperity, are in precarious positions that can lead to their downfall. This metaphor serves as a warning that earthly success is fleeting and that true stability is found in a righteous relationship with God.
How does Psalms 73:18 relate to the theme of divine justice?
Psalms 73:18 underscores the theme of divine justice by illustrating that God has the ultimate authority to judge the wicked. It contrasts their temporary prosperity with the certainty of their destruction, reinforcing the belief that God will rectify injustices in His timing. This encourages believers to trust in God's plan for 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.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.