Old Testament
Psalms 74:20
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 is calling on God to remember His covenant, which is a sacred agreement between God and His people.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Have respect to the covenant, for the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty.
Have respect unto the covenant: for the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is calling on God to remember His covenant, which is a sacred agreement between God and His people. The mention of 'dark places' refers to areas of moral and spiritual decay, where cruelty and violence thrive. The psalmist highlights the need for divine intervention in these places, as they are filled with suffering and injustice. By invoking the covenant, the psalmist is reminding God of His promises to protect and deliver His people. This plea reflects a deep concern for the state of the world and a desire for God to act against the evil that permeates society. The verse emphasizes the importance of God's faithfulness to His promises, especially in times of distress. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest situations, there is hope for redemption and restoration through God's covenant love.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 74:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to remember God's promises in our lives, especially when we face darkness or cruelty. We can pray for God's intervention in situations of injustice and seek to be agents of change, reflecting His love and justice in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 74:20 mean?
Psalms 74:20 is a plea for God to remember His covenant with His people, highlighting the presence of cruelty and suffering in the world. The verse emphasizes the need for divine intervention in places filled with moral decay.
What is the significance of the covenant in Psalms 74:20?
The covenant in Psalms 74:20 represents the sacred agreement between God and His people, reminding God of His promises to protect and deliver them, especially in times of distress.
What does 'dark places' refer to in Psalms 74:20?
In Psalms 74:20, 'dark places' refers to areas of moral and spiritual decay where cruelty and violence are prevalent, indicating a need for God's light and justice.
How can we apply Psalms 74:20 in our lives?
We can apply Psalms 74:20 by remembering God's promises during difficult times and praying for His intervention in situations of injustice, while also striving to reflect His love and justice in our communities.

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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