Psalms 37:22

For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off.

Psalms 37:22 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm written by King David. It teaches believers to live righteously and trust in God’s faithfulness, even when the wicked seem to prosper. This verse contrasts two destinies: those blessed by the Lord will inherit the earth, while those cursed by Him will be cut off.

Meaning

The Hebrew word for “inherit” (yarash) means to possess something as a lasting grant. The “earth” or “land” (erets) points not only to physical territory but to the land of promise, symbolizing God’s provision, favor, and the full inheritance He gives to the righteous. This inheritance includes the blessings of God’s covenant and the hope of dwelling securely in His presence.

The phrase “blessed of him” shows that the source of blessing is the Lord Himself, not human merit. The Targum, an ancient Aramaic paraphrase, renders this as “blessed by the Word of the Lord,” connecting divine agency in blessing. In contrast, “they that be cursed of him” refers to those under God’s curse. The term “cut off” (karath) in the Old Testament often means being removed from the community or destroyed, signifying utter ruin and exclusion from the inheritance.

Biblical connections

This verse reinforces the central theme of Psalm 37: the righteous are secure because their future rests on God’s blessing, while the wicked, despite temporary success, face certain judgment. The psalmist gives practical instructions that support this truth: trust in the Lord and do good (verse 3); delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart (verse 4); commit your way to the Lord, trust in Him, and He will act (verse 5); be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him (verse 7); refrain from anger and forsake wrath (verse 8); wait on the Lord and keep His way, and He will exalt you to inherit the land (verse 34). These verses together stress faith, obedience, and patient waiting for God’s timing.

Application

This contrast reminds us that God is just. He rewards righteousness and deals with wickedness accordingly. Instead of envying the temporary success of the wicked, believers are called to trust in God’s providence. The promise of inheriting the earth is for those who wait on the Lord and delight in Him. This blessing is not earned but is a gift of God’s grace, given to those who are in a right relationship with Him.

Reflection

Psalm 37:22 highlights the destiny of the blessed versus the cursed. It calls us to trust in God’s provision and justice, to live according to His commands, and to focus on His faithfulness. The inheritance of the earth points to the eternal inheritance and reward awaiting the righteous in God’s kingdom. Our hope rests not in present circumstances but in the sure promise of His inheritance for the faithful.