Psalms 58:10 (KJV)

What does Psalms 58:10 mean?

Psalms 58:10 describes a moment when those who are righteous will be glad to see justice done against the wicked, using strong imagery to show their satisfaction at seeing wrongs made right. The verse uses the picture of washing feet in the blood of the wicked to emphasize how complete and visible this act of judgment will be.

The psalm is attributed to David, who is speaking about a time when evil people seem to prosper and justice seems delayed. Here, David assures his listeners that God will eventually bring justice, and those who have lived rightly (the "righteous") will witness this. The language is vivid and symbolic, meant to stress the certainty and thoroughness of God's judgment against wrongdoing.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 58:10

• "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tsaddiq): This word refers to someone who lives according to what is right and just, highlighting a contrast with the "wicked" in the verse.
• "rejoice" (שָׂמַח, samach): This word means to be glad or joyful, showing that the righteous will feel real relief and happiness when justice is finally seen.
• "vengeance" (נָקָם, naqam): This word points to a repayment or settling of wrongs, not personal revenge but a public act of justice.
• "wash" (רָחַץ, rachats): The idea of washing feet in blood is a strong image, not literal, but meant to show how completely the wicked are defeated and how visible that defeat is to all.

Why Psalms 58:10 matters

• Psalms 58:10 clears up the idea that the Bible always speaks gently about judgment; here, the language is intentionally strong to show the seriousness of injustice and the reality of God's response.
• This verse emphasizes that God's justice is not hidden or partial—when it comes, it will be obvious to everyone, including those who have suffered under wrongdoing.
• The verse connects to the rest of Psalm 58, which is a prayer for God to act against corrupt leaders and evildoers, assuring the faithful that their hope for justice is not in vain.