Psalm 94:10 - Printer Friendly

ESV: He who disciplines the nations, does he not rebuke? He who teaches man knowledge —

NIV: Does he who disciplines nations not punish? Does he who teaches mankind lack knowledge?

NASB: He who disciplines the nations, will He not rebuke, He who teaches mankind knowledge?

CSB: The one who instructs nations, the one who teaches mankind knowledge— does he not discipline?

NLT: He punishes the nations — won’t he also punish you? He knows everything — doesn’t he also know what you are doing?

KJV: He that chastiseth the heathen, shall not he correct? he that teacheth man knowledge, shall not he know?

NKJV: He who instructs the nations, shall He not correct, He who teaches man knowledge?

Psalm 94:8–11 refutes the arrogant claim that God is unaware of human sin (Psalm 10:11; 94:7). The basis of all truth and knowledge is an understanding of God's role as Creator (Proverbs 1:7). The One who created human senses knows everything a mortal person could know. Those who defy the Lord by oppressing the weak (Psalm 94:5–6) should take care to change their ways.

This song begins with the psalmist's prayer for God's vengeance on arrogant, evil people bragging about their sin. These criminals abuse the Lord's people and think God is unaware. But the Creator who made man knows everything men can know. God sees. He will continue to work out His plan. This will end in restoration for His people and eternal disaster for those who hate Him.

This psalm may refer to corrupt leaders within Israel, or to oppressing Gentile nations. Their sins don't escape God's notice; He will punish them one day. The text shares themes with Psalm 10, such as the arrogance of men assuming the Lord doesn't know or care about their sin. First Corinthians 3:20 cites Psalm 94:11 when pointing out that God is perfectly aware of human scheming.

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.

Accessed 12/18/2024 12:48:18 PM