Psalms 37:30 (KJV)

What does Psalms 37:30 mean?

Psalms 37:30 describes a person who does what is right as someone whose speech is shaped by sound understanding and a concern for what is just. The verse connects a person’s character with the kind of words that come from that person’s mouth.

The verse pictures speech through two parts of the body: the mouth and the tongue. These parallel images draw attention to what the righteous person says, after the promise of lasting possession in verse 29.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 37:30

• “speaketh” — הָגָה (hagah): This word can carry the sense of speaking or murmuring. It is also used for quiet reflection, though here the KJV presents wisdom as something spoken aloud.
• “judgment” — מִשְׁפָּט (mishpat): This word can refer to justice or what is right according to a standard. Here, “judgment” points toward fair and right speech, not simply the act of criticizing someone.

Why Psalms 37:30 matters

• The verse brings the psalm’s concern with right conduct into ordinary speech. “Wisdom” and “judgment” describe the substance of the person’s words.
• The next verse connects the person’s speech with inward understanding. Verse 31 says that God’s law is “in his heart,” placing that understanding alongside the words described in verse 30.