But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

PSALMS 37:11KJV
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Psalms 37:11 (KJV)

What does Psalms 37:11 mean?

Psalms 37:11 says that those who are meek—gentle and humble—will receive the earth as their inheritance and will enjoy great peace. The verse promises that quiet, humble people will ultimately find deep satisfaction and security, not by force, but through patient trust.

In this psalm, David is speaking to people who are troubled by the success of the wicked. He reassures them that God values humility and gentleness, and that in the end, it is the meek who will truly flourish. The verse offers comfort by shifting focus from immediate injustice to God's long-term faithfulness and the lasting peace He gives to those who trust Him.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 37:11

  • "meek" (עֲנָוִים, ‘anavim): This word refers to people who are humble, gentle, or lowly, not those who are weak or passive. It highlights a strength that comes from trusting God rather than asserting oneself.
  • "inherit" (יָרַשׁ, yarash): To inherit means to receive something as a lasting possession, often land or a place of belonging. Here, it points to a secure future given by God, not earned by aggression.
  • "earth" (אֶרֶץ, erets): This word can mean the land, the earth, or a specific territory. In the context of ancient Israel, it often meant the promised land, but it can also suggest a broader sense of security and blessing.
  • "delight" (עָנַג, anag): This word means to take great pleasure or joy in something. The verse promises not just survival, but a deep enjoyment of the peace God provides.
  • "abundance" (רֹב, rov): This word means plenty or a great amount. The peace described is not just a little, but overflowing.
  • "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom): Shalom means more than just the absence of conflict; it includes wholeness, well-being, and harmony in every part of life.

Why Psalms 37:11 matters

  • Psalms 37:11 corrects the idea that only the powerful or aggressive succeed; it emphasizes that God honors humility and gentleness in the long run.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme of the psalm, which contrasts the temporary success of the wicked with the lasting security of those who trust God.
  • Jesus later quotes this verse in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:5), showing its enduring importance and the value placed on meekness throughout the Bible.

Where else these words appear

“delight” Hebrew H6026 · used in 10 verses

  • Deuteronomy 28:56 The tender and delicate woman among you, which would not adventure to set the sole of her foot upon the ground for delicateness and tenderness, her eye shall be evil toward the husband of her bosom, and toward her son, and toward her daughter,
  • Psalms 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
  • Isaiah 58:14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.

“meek” Hebrew H6035 · used in 24 verses

  • Numbers 12:3 (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.)
  • Psalms 25:9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
  • Proverbs 16:19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

“abundance” Hebrew H7230 · used in 149 verses

  • Genesis 16:10 And the angel of the LORD said unto her, I will multiply thy seed exceedingly, that it shall not be numbered for multitude.
  • 2 Chronicles 17:5 Therefore the LORD stablished the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah brought to Jehoshaphat presents; and he had riches and honour in abundance.
  • Proverbs 13:23 Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.