Psalms 73:9
“They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.”
Psalms 73:9 in 8 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- They have set their mouth against heaven: and their tongue hath passed through the earth.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- They have set their mouth in the heavens, And their tongue walketh through the earth.
- DARBYDarby
- They set their mouth in the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- They have set their mouth in the heavens. Their tongue walks through the earth.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- They have set in the heavens their mouth, And their tongue walketh in the earth.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- They set their mouths against heaven, and their tongues roam the earth.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- They set their mouths against heaven, and their tongues roam the earth.
Context: Psalms 73
7Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish.
8They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily.
9They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
10Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them.
11And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High?
About Psalms 73: Wrestling with Envy and Doubt
Psalm 73 is a beautiful yet raw expression of the struggles involved in trying to maintain faith in God amidst the temptations of envy and doubt. The author, Asaph, admits to feeling jealous of the apparent success and lack of consequences of the wicked while he himself has suffered for remaining faithful to God. However, he ultimately realizes that God is his true treasure and that following Him will lead to eternal satisfaction.
Commentary
This psalm is a powerful reminder that faith is not always easy, and that even the strongest believers can sometimes get discouraged and envious. Asaph's candid admission of his struggles is refreshing and reassuring, for it shows that we are not alone in our doubts and temptations. More importantly, it shows that God is gracious and faithful, and that He will never abandon us or let us down. As we read this psalm, let us take heart and be reminded that our ultimate reward is not in earthly success, but in the eternal joy of being in the presence of God.