Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.

PSALMS 32:10KJV
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Psalms 32:10 (KJV)

What does Psalms 32:10 mean?

Psalms 32:10 says that those who do wrong will experience much trouble, but anyone who puts their trust in the LORD will be surrounded by God’s kindness and care. The verse draws a clear contrast between the outcomes for the wicked and for those who rely on God.

King David is speaking in this psalm, reflecting on the blessings of forgiveness and the consequences of turning away from God. The setting is one of personal reflection and teaching, where David encourages others to seek God’s mercy. The verse highlights that trusting in the LORD brings a special protection and favor that stands in contrast to the difficulties faced by those who reject God’s ways.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 32:10

  • "sorrows" (מַכְאֹבוֹת, makh'ovot): This word refers to pains, troubles, or sufferings, emphasizing the real and often deep hardships that come to those described as wicked.
  • "wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha): This term means someone who acts unjustly or is guilty before God, not just someone who makes mistakes but someone who is set against what is right.
  • "trusteth" (בָּטַח, batach): This word means to rely on, to feel secure, or to have confidence in someone. Here, it stresses an active, ongoing reliance on the LORD, not just a one-time belief.
  • "mercy" (חֶסֶד, chesed): This is a rich Hebrew word for steadfast love, kindness, or loyal love. It means more than just mercy; it’s about God’s faithful, covenant love that surrounds and protects.
  • "compass" (סָבַב, savav): This word means to encircle or surround. The idea is that God’s mercy doesn’t just touch the trusting person but completely surrounds them on every side.

Why Psalms 32:10 matters

  • Psalms 32:10 clarifies that the troubles of the wicked are not random but are a direct result of their choices, while the protection for the trusting comes from God’s loyal love.
  • The verse emphasizes that God’s mercy is not distant or occasional; it surrounds those who trust Him, offering a picture of constant, all-encompassing care.
  • In the context of the whole psalm, this verse serves as a summary and encouragement, showing the practical difference between living apart from God and living in trusting relationship with Him.

Where else these words appear

“sorrows” Hebrew H4341 · used in 15 verses

  • Exodus 3:7 And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;
  • Psalms 69:26 For they persecute him whom thou hast smitten; and they talk to the grief of those whom thou hast wounded.
  • Jeremiah 30:15 Why criest thou for thine affliction? thy sorrow is incurable for the multitude of thine iniquity: because thy sins were increased, I have done these things unto thee.

“trusteth” Hebrew H982 · used in 117 verses

  • Deuteronomy 28:52 And he shall besiege thee in all thy gates, until thy high and fenced walls come down, wherein thou trustedst, throughout all thy land: and he shall besiege thee in all thy gates throughout all thy land, which the LORD thy God hath given thee.
  • Psalms 44:6 For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me.
  • Isaiah 30:12 Wherefore thus saith the Holy One of Israel, Because ye despise this word, and trust in oppression and perverseness, and stay thereon:

“compass” Hebrew H5437 · used in 147 verses

  • Genesis 2:11 The name of the first is Pison: that is it which compasseth the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold;
  • 2 Samuel 18:30 And the king said unto him, Turn aside, and stand here. And he turned aside, and stood still.
  • Psalms 48:12 Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof.