Psalms 73:19

“How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.”

Where the Verse Sits

The preceding line reads “Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction.” The titled verse reads “How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.” The following line reads “As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.” Together, these lines show how Psalms 73:19 functions within its immediate canonical and literary sequence.

What the Text Says

This poetic line concentrates its meaning through carefully chosen words and images. The verse should be heard as part of the movement of the psalm or song, where repetition, contrast, praise, lament, remembrance, and petition often shape the message.

The verse first states “How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment!” It then adds “they are utterly consumed with terrors.” Reading both movements together prevents either half of the verse from being isolated from the other.

Why It Matters

Biblical poetry gives faithful language for speaking about God and responding to him. Its imagery is not permission to detach the line from its setting; rather, the surrounding lines help show whether the speaker is praising, pleading, remembering, warning, or giving thanks.

For Reflection

The verse can guide prayer and reflection when its actual words remain central. Readers should notice what the speaker says about God, the community, or the human condition, and then respond in a way consistent with the whole poetic passage.

Taken within its immediate setting, Psalms 73:19 has a clear place in the passage. Careful attention to its actual words provides a sound foundation for interpretation and response.