Question 1

What does Psalms 22:31 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 22:31 says that future generations will come and tell others about God’s righteousness, making it known to people not yet born that God has accomplished something significant. The verse points to a continuing story, where what God has done will be shared and remembered by those who come after. In this psalm, David is speaking, expressing trust that God’s actions—especially his deliverance—will not be forgotten. The verse closes a song that began with suffering but ends with hope, showing that God’s goodness will be declared to new people in the future, ensuring that his deeds are not lost to time.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 22:31

Accepted Answer

"Come" (יָבוֹא, yavo, from H935) means to arrive or enter. Here, it suggests that people from future generations will actively approach or participate in telling God’s story, not just passively hear about it. "Declare" (יַגִּידוּ, yagidu, from H5046) means to announce or make known. This word emphasizes that what God has done will be openly told, not kept secret. "Righteousness" (צִדְקָתוֹ, tsidkato, from H6666) refers to God’s justice, faithfulness, or right actions. The focus is on God’s character and deeds being the main message passed down. "Born" (יִוָּלֵד, yivaled, from H3205) highlights that this message is for people not yet alive, stressing the ongoing impact of God’s work beyond the current generation.

Question 3

Why Psalms 22:31 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the story of God’s righteousness is not just for one time or one group, but is meant to be shared with all future generations. The emphasis on declaring what God "has done" connects the end of the psalm to its earlier cries for help, showing that God’s actions in times of suffering are worth remembering and retelling. It highlights the importance of testimony and memory in faith, suggesting that part of worship is making sure the next generation knows about God’s faithfulness.

Psalms 22:31 (KJV)