CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 32:9 Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/32-9.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/1/19_Psa_032_009.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 32:9 - The Providence of God" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/32-9.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/32-9.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/32.htm">Chapter 32</a> > Verse 9</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad9.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/32-8.htm" title="Psalm 32:8">◄</a> Psalm 32:9 <a href="/psalms/32-10.htm" title="Psalm 32:10">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/psalms/32.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/psalms/32.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/psalms/32.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/32.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/32.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/32.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Be ye not as the horse, <i>or</i> as the mule, <i>which</i> have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/32.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Do not be like the horse <i>or</i> like the mule, <i>Which</i> have no understanding, Which must be harnessed with bit and bridle, Else they will not come near you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/32.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like the horse or like the mule, which have no understanding, Whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check, <i>Otherwise</i> they will not come near to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/32.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding, Whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check, Otherwise they will not come near to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/32.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding, Whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check, <i>Otherwise</i> they will not come near to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/32.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding, Whose harness are bit and bridle to control them, <i>Otherwise</i> they will not come near you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/32.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like the horse or like the mule which have no understanding, Whose trappings include bridle and rein to hold them in check, <i>Otherwise</i> they will not come near to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/32.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like a horse or mule, without understanding, that must be controlled with bit and bridle or else it will not come near you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/32.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like a horse or mule, without understanding, that must be controlled with bit and bridle or else it will not come near you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/32.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding; Whose trappings must be bit and bridle to hold them in, Else they will not come near unto thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/32.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Don't be stupid like horses and mules that must be led with ropes to make them obey." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/32.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose trappings must be bit and bridle to hold them in, else they will not come near unto thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/32.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Don't be stubborn like a horse or mule. [They need] a bit and bridle in their mouth to restrain them, or they will not come near you."<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/32.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Don't be stupid like a horse or a mule, which must be controlled with a bit and bridle to make it submit." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/32.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Don't be like a horse or mule, without understanding. They are held in check by a bit and bridle in their mouths; otherwise they will not remain near you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/32.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/32.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like an unintelligent horse or mule, which will not obey you unless they are controlled by a bridle and bit. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/32.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like the horse, or like the mule, which have no understanding, who are controlled by bit and bridle, or else they will not come near to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/32.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near to thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/32.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Don’t be like the horse, or like the mule, which have no understanding, who are controlled by bit and bridle, or else they will not come near to you. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/32.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Do not be as a horse—as a mule, "" Without understanding, "" With bridle and bit, its ornaments, to curb, "" Not to come near to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/32.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Be ye not as a horse -- as a mule, Without understanding, With bridle and bit, its ornaments, to curb, Not to come near unto thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/32.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Ye shall not be as the horse, as the mule, not understanding: with bit and curb to stop his youth, not drawing near to thee.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/32.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Do not become like the horse and the mule, who have no understanding. With bit and bridle bind fast their jaws, who come not near unto thee. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/32.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 31:9>Do not become like the horse and the mule, which have no understanding. Their jaws are constrained with bit and bridle, so as not to draw near to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/32.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Do not be like a horse or mule, without understanding; with bit and bridle their temper is curbed, else they will not come to you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/32.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/32.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Be not as the horse or as the mule, which have no understanding, which must be subdued with bit and bridle from their youth; no one goes near them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/32.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />You shall not be like a horse or like a mule which are not wise, which are tamed with a bit from their youth, and they do not go near it.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/32.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding; Whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, That they come not near unto thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/32.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Be ye not as horse and mule, which have no understanding; <i>but thou must</i> constrain their jaws with bit and curb, lest they should come nigh to thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/32-9.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=3459" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/psalms/32.htm">The Providence of God</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">8</span>I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you. <span class="reftext">9</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/408.htm" title="408: ’al- (Adv) -- Not (a subjective neg.). A negative particle; not; once as a noun, nothing.">Do not</a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: tih·yū (V-Qal-Imperf-2mp) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">be</a> <a href="/hebrew/5483.htm" title="5483: kə·sūs (Prep-k:: N-ms) -- A swallow, swift (type of bird). Or cuc; from an unused root meaning to skip; a horse; also a swallow.">like the horse</a> <a href="/hebrew/6505.htm" title="6505: kə·p̄e·reḏ (Prep-k:: N-ms) -- A mule. From parad; a mule.">or mule,</a> <a href="/hebrew/369.htm" title="369: ’ên (Adv) -- As if from a primitive root meaning to be nothing or not exist; a non-entity; generally used as a negative particle.">which have no</a> <a href="/hebrew/995.htm" title="995: hā·ḇîn (V-Hifil-Inf) -- To discern. A primitive root; to separate mentally, i.e.(generally) understand.">understanding;</a> <a href="/hebrew/1102.htm" title="1102: liḇ·lō·wm (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To curb, hold in. A primitive root; to muzzle.">they must be controlled</a> <a href="/hebrew/4964.htm" title="4964: bə·me·ṯeḡ- (Prep-b:: N-ms) -- A bridle. From an unused root meaning to curb; a bit.">with bit</a> <a href="/hebrew/7448.htm" title="7448: wā·re·sen (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- A halter, jaw. From an unused root meaning to curb; a halter; by implication, the jaw.">and bridle</a> <a href="/hebrew/5716.htm" title="5716: ‘eḏ·yōw (N-msc:: 3ms) -- Ornaments. From adah in the sense of trappings; finery; generally an outfit; specifically, a headstall."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1077.htm" title="1077: bal (Adv) -- Not. From balah; properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually not at all; also lest.">to make them</a> <a href="/hebrew/7126.htm" title="7126: qə·rōḇ (V-Qal-Inf) -- To come near, approach. A primitive root; to approach for whatever purpose.">come</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’ê·le·ḵā (Prep:: 2ms) -- To, into, towards. ">to you.</a> </span><span class="reftext">10</span>Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but loving devotion surrounds him who trusts in the LORD.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/26-3.htm">Proverbs 26:3</a></span><br />A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/3-3.htm">James 3:3</a></span><br />When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/10-17.htm">Proverbs 10:17</a></span><br />Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who ignores reproof goes astray.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/12-1.htm">Proverbs 12:1</a></span><br />Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/15-32.htm">Proverbs 15:32</a></span><br />He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/12-9.htm">Hebrews 12:9-11</a></span><br />Furthermore, we have all had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them. Should we not much more submit to the Father of our spirits and live? / Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. / No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/1-7.htm">Proverbs 1:7</a></span><br />The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/13-18.htm">Proverbs 13:18</a></span><br />Poverty and shame come to him who ignores discipline, but whoever heeds correction is honored.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/19-20.htm">Proverbs 19:20</a></span><br />Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/29-1.htm">Proverbs 29:1</a></span><br />A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/1-19.htm">Isaiah 1:19-20</a></span><br />If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best of the land. / But if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/5-21.htm">Jeremiah 5:21</a></span><br />“Hear this, O foolish and senseless people, who have eyes but do not see, who have ears but do not hear.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/11-29.htm">Matthew 11:29-30</a></span><br />Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. / For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/8-14.htm">Romans 8:14</a></span><br />For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/2-14.htm">1 Corinthians 2:14</a></span><br />The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. For they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Be you not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near to you.</p><p class="hdg">Be ye</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/26-3.htm">Proverbs 26:3</a></b></br> A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/31-18.htm">Jeremiah 31:18</a></b></br> I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself <i>thus</i>; Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed <i>to the yoke</i>: turn thou me, and I shall be turned; for thou <i>art</i> the LORD my God.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/james/3-3.htm">James 3:3</a></b></br> Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.</p><p class="hdg">no</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/35-11.htm">Job 35:11</a></b></br> Who teacheth us more than the beasts of the earth, and maketh us wiser than the fowls of heaven?</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/4-22.htm">Jeremiah 4:22</a></b></br> For my people <i>is</i> foolish, they have not known me; they <i>are</i> sottish children, and they have none understanding: they <i>are</i> wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/8-6.htm">Jeremiah 8:6,7</a></b></br> I hearkened and heard, <i>but</i> they spake not aright: no man repented him of his wickedness, saying, What have I done? every one turned to his course, as the horse rusheth into the battle… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/job/39-5.htm">Ass</a> <a href="/job/33-6.htm">Bit</a> <a href="/job/41-13.htm">Bridle</a> <a href="/job/20-3.htm">Check</a> <a href="/esther/5-10.htm">Controlled</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">Curb</a> <a href="/psalms/18-35.htm">Held</a> <a href="/psalms/21-8.htm">Hold</a> <a href="/job/39-19.htm">Horse</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/21-6.htm">Include</a> <a href="/psalms/32-3.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-44.htm">Mule</a> <a href="/job/40-10.htm">Ornaments</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/30-18.htm">Otherwise</a> <a href="/job/30-11.htm">Restraint</a> <a href="/job/40-23.htm">Sense</a> <a href="/psalms/14-2.htm">Understanding</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/26-3.htm">Ass</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-1.htm">Bit</a> <a href="/psalms/39-1.htm">Bridle</a> <a href="/psalms/39-2.htm">Check</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-25.htm">Controlled</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-22.htm">Curb</a> <a href="/psalms/34-21.htm">Held</a> <a href="/psalms/35-2.htm">Hold</a> <a href="/psalms/33-17.htm">Horse</a> <a href="/ezekiel/16-29.htm">Include</a> <a href="/psalms/33-6.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/zechariah/14-15.htm">Mule</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-9.htm">Ornaments</a> <a href="/psalms/38-16.htm">Otherwise</a> <a href="/psalms/107-39.htm">Restraint</a> <a href="/psalms/76-5.htm">Sense</a> <a href="/psalms/47-7.htm">Understanding</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 32</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/32-1.htm">Blessedness consists in remission of sins</a></span><br><span class="reftext">3. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/32-3.htm">Confession of sins gives ease to the conscience</a></span><br><span class="reftext">8. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/32-8.htm">God's promises bring joy</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/32.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/32.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Do not be like the horse or mule</b><br>This phrase serves as a warning against stubbornness and a lack of spiritual discernment. In biblical times, horses and mules were common animals used for labor and transportation, known for their strength but also for their stubborn nature. The comparison suggests that believers should not be obstinate or resistant to God's guidance. This imagery is consistent with other biblical references to animals, such as in <a href="/proverbs/26-3.htm">Proverbs 26:3</a>, where a whip is for the horse and a bridle for the donkey, emphasizing the need for control over willful creatures.<p><b>which have no understanding</b><br>The lack of understanding in animals is used metaphorically to describe a spiritual condition. In the Bible, understanding is often linked to wisdom and the fear of the Lord (<a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>). The absence of understanding implies a deficiency in spiritual insight and discernment. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that true wisdom comes from God and is characterized by a heart that seeks Him (<a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a>).<p><b>they must be controlled with bit and bridle</b><br>The bit and bridle are tools used to direct and control horses and mules. This imagery suggests that without internal guidance, external measures are necessary to direct one's path. In a spiritual context, it implies that those who lack understanding may require external discipline or correction to follow God's will. This can be related to <a href="/hebrews/12-6.htm">Hebrews 12:6</a>, where God disciplines those He loves, indicating that divine correction is a form of guidance for those who are not spiritually attuned.<p><b>to make them come to you</b><br>The purpose of the bit and bridle is to bring the animal to the owner or master. Spiritually, this reflects God's desire for His people to come to Him willingly, not out of compulsion. The call to come to God is a recurring theme in Scripture, seen in passages like <a href="/matthew/11-28.htm">Matthew 11:28</a>, where Jesus invites the weary to come to Him for rest. This phrase underscores the importance of a willing heart that seeks God, contrasting with the stubbornness of the horse or mule.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a></b><br>The author of <a href="/bsb/psalms/32.htm">Psalm 32</a>, King David, is reflecting on the importance of understanding and obedience to God.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/h/horses_and_mules.htm">Horses and Mules</a></b><br>These animals are used metaphorically to illustrate stubbornness and lack of understanding.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/b/bit_and_bridle.htm">Bit and Bridle</a></b><br>Tools used to control horses and mules, symbolizing external control necessary for those who lack internal guidance.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/u/understanding_and_obedience.htm">Understanding and Obedience</a></b><br>God desires His people to have understanding and willingly follow His guidance, rather than needing external control.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_stubbornness.htm">The Danger of Stubbornness</a></b><br>Like horses and mules, stubbornness can lead to a lack of spiritual growth and missed opportunities for God's blessings.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_discipline.htm">The Role of Discipline</a></b><br>Discipline is necessary for those who resist understanding, but God prefers willing obedience from a heart of understanding.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/spiritual_maturity.htm">Spiritual Maturity</a></b><br>Spiritual maturity involves moving from external control to internal guidance by the Holy Spirit.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reflecting_on_personal_stubbornness.htm">Reflecting on Personal Stubbornness</a></b><br>Believers should examine areas of their lives where they may be resisting God's guidance and seek to cultivate a heart of understanding.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_32.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 32</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_did_jesus_ride_a_donkey.htm">Why did Jesus enter Jerusalem on a donkey?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_is_god's_judgment_reconciled.htm">Psalm 98:9 promises judgment with equity, but other biblical passages show God permitting destruction and violence--how are these reconciled?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_ezekiel_38_4_with_modern_tech.htm">How do we reconcile the literal mention of horses and ancient weaponry in Ezekiel 38:4 with modern warfare technology?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_genesis_5_and_psalm_90_10.htm">How do we reconcile the extraordinarily long lifespans in Genesis 5 with the more typical human lifespan suggested in Psalm 90:10?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/32.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(9) <span class= "bld">Whose mouth.</span>--Here the text has evidently suffered, and the exact meaning is lost. There are also verbal difficulties. The word translated "mouth" elsewhere (except <a href="/psalms/103-5.htm" title="Who satisfies your mouth with good things; so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.">Psalm 103:5</a>, where see Note) means "ornament," and the literal rendering of the text as it stands is, <span class= "ital">with bit and bridle his ornament to hold, not approaching to thee. </span>This may mean that the animal is harnessed, either "that it may not approach," or "because without harness it will not approach." In either case the general application is the same. Horses and mules can only be rendered obedient by restraints that are unworthy of a rational creature. The LXX. and Vulg. have "jaws" instead of "mouth," and Ewald follows them, and renders the last clause, "of those who approach thee unfriendly."<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/32.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 9.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding</span>. The singular is exchanged for the plural, since the "instruction" is now intended, not for the godly man only, but for all. Israel had been always stiff-necked (<a href="/exodus/32-9.htm">Exodus 32:9</a>; <a href="/exodus/33-3.htm">Exodus 33:3, 5</a>; <a href="/exodus/34-9.htm">Exodus 34:9</a>; <a href="/deuteronomy/9-6.htm">Deuteronomy 9:6, 13</a>; <a href="/deuteronomy/10-16.htm">Deuteronomy 10:16</a>; <a href="/2_chronicles/30-8.htm">2 Chronicles 30:8</a>; <a href="/acts/7-51.htm">Acts 7:51</a>), like a restive horse or mule. David exhorts them to be so no more. The horse and mule are excusable, since they "have no understanding " - or, "no discernment" - Israel would be inexcusable, since it had the gift of reason. <span class="cmt_word">Whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle</span>; rather, <span class="accented">whose adornings are with bit and bridle to hold them in</span> (compare the Revised Version). <span class="cmt_word">Lest they come near unto thee</span>. This clause is obscure. It may mean, "Lest they come <span class="accented">too</span> near to thee," so as to do thee damage, as when a riding horse tosses his head and strikes the rider in the face, or when a chariot horse rears and falls back upon the driver; or it may mean, "Else they will not come near to thee," <span class="accented">i.e.</span> until they are trapped with bit and bridle, they will refuse to come near to thee. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/32-9.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Do not</span><br /><span class="heb">אַל־</span> <span class="translit">(’al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_408.htm">Strong's 408: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not</span><br /><br /><span class="word">be</span><br /><span class="heb">תִּֽהְי֤וּ ׀</span> <span class="translit">(tih·yū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fall out, come to pass, become, be</span><br /><br /><span class="word">like the horse</span><br /><span class="heb">כְּס֥וּס</span> <span class="translit">(kə·sūs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-k | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5483.htm">Strong's 5483: </a> </span><span class="str2">A swallow, swift (type of bird)</span><br /><br /><span class="word">or mule,</span><br /><span class="heb">כְּפֶרֶד֮</span> <span class="translit">(kə·p̄e·reḏ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-k | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6505.htm">Strong's 6505: </a> </span><span class="str2">A mule</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[which] have no</span><br /><span class="heb">אֵ֤ין</span> <span class="translit">(’ên)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_369.htm">Strong's 369: </a> </span><span class="str2">A non-entity, a negative particle</span><br /><br /><span class="word">understanding;</span><br /><span class="heb">הָ֫בִ֥ין</span> <span class="translit">(hā·ḇîn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_995.htm">Strong's 995: </a> </span><span class="str2">To separate mentally, understand</span><br /><br /><span class="word">they must be controlled</span><br /><span class="heb">לִבְל֑וֹם</span> <span class="translit">(liḇ·lō·wm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1102.htm">Strong's 1102: </a> </span><span class="str2">To curb, hold in</span><br /><br /><span class="word">with bit</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּמֶֽתֶג־</span> <span class="translit">(bə·me·ṯeḡ-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4964.htm">Strong's 4964: </a> </span><span class="str2">A bridle</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and bridle</span><br /><span class="heb">וָרֶ֣סֶן</span> <span class="translit">(wā·re·sen)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7448.htm">Strong's 7448: </a> </span><span class="str2">A halter, the jaw</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[to make]</span><br /><span class="heb">בַּ֝֗ל</span> <span class="translit">(bal)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1077.htm">Strong's 1077: </a> </span><span class="str2">A failure, nothing, not at all, lest</span><br /><br /><span class="word">them come</span><br /><span class="heb">קְרֹ֣ב</span> <span class="translit">(qə·rōḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7126.htm">Strong's 7126: </a> </span><span class="str2">To come near, approach</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to you.</span><br /><span class="heb">אֵלֶֽיךָ׃</span> <span class="translit">(’ê·le·ḵā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> </span><span class="str2">Near, with, among, to</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/32-9.htm">Psalm 32:9 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/32-9.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 32:9 Don't be like the horse or like (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/32-8.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 32:8"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 32:8" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/32-10.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 32:10"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 32:10" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>