Psalm 36 Meaning Explained

A stark diptych. The first panel anatomizes the wicked heart: no fear of God, self-flattered, plotting mischief even in bed. The second panel erupts in praise for God's covenantal love that reaches the heavens, righteousness like mountains, and refuge in the shadow of His wings. The psalmist’s prayer is to be continuously bathed in that fountain of life and light, protected from the flood of transgression.

A clear explanation of Psalm 36, its meaning, context, and message for believers today

Psalms Chapter 36 | KJV

1. To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David the servant of the LORD. The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.
2. For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful.
3. The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, and to do good.
4. He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil.
5. Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.
6. Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD, thou preservest man and beast.
7. How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.
8. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
9. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.
10. O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart.
11. Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.
12. There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise.

Historical Context

Psalm 36, attributed to David, contrasts the sinful nature of humanity with God’s unwavering love and righteousness.