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A maskil of David. When Doeg the Edomite had gone to Saul and told him: &#8220David has gone to the house of Ahimelek.&#8221 Why do you boast of evil, you mighty hero? Why do you boast all day long, you who are a disgrace in the eyes of God? <a href="/nlt/psalms/52.htm">New Living Translation</a> Why do you boast about your crimes, great warrior? Don’t you realize God’s justice continues forever? <a href="/esv/psalms/52.htm">English Standard Version</a> Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? The steadfast love of God endures all the day. <a href="/bsb/psalms/52.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For the choirmaster. A Maskil of David. After Doeg the Edomite went to Saul and told him, “David has gone to the house of Ahimelech.” Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? The loving devotion of God endures all day long. <a href="/kjv/psalms/52.htm">King James Bible</a> To the chief Musician, Maschil, A Psalm of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said unto him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech. Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God endureth continually. <a href="/nkjv/psalms/52.htm">New King James Version</a> To the Chief Musician. A Contemplation of David when Doeg the Edomite went and told Saul, and said to him, “David has gone to the house of Ahimelech.” Why do you boast in evil, O mighty man? The goodness of God endures continually. <a href="/nasb_/psalms/52.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For the music director. A Maskil of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul and said to him, “David has come to the house of Ahimelech.” Why do you boast in evil, you mighty man? The faithfulness of God endures all day long. <a href="/nasb/psalms/52.htm">NASB 1995</a> For the choir director. A Maskil of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul and said to him, &#8220David has come to the house of Ahimelech.&#8221 Why do you boast in evil, O mighty man? The lovingkindness of God endures all day long. <a href="/nasb77/psalms/52.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Why do you boast in evil, O mighty man? The lovingkindness of God endures all day long. <a href="/lsb/psalms/52.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For the choir director. A Maskil of David. When Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul and said to him, “David has come to the house of Ahimelech.” Why do you boast in evil, O mighty man? The lovingkindness of God endures all day long. <a href="/amp/psalms/52.htm">Amplified Bible</a> To the Chief Musician. A skillful song, or a didactic or reflective poem. A Psalm of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, “David has come to the house of Ahimelech.” Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? The lovingkindness of God endures all day long. <a href="/csb/psalms/52.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For the choir director. A Maskil of David. When Doeg the Edomite went and reported to Saul, telling him, “David went to Ahimelech’s house.” † Why boast about evil, you hero! God’s faithful love is constant. <a href="/hcsb/psalms/52.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For the choir director. A Davidic Maskil. When Doeg the Edomite went and reported to Saul, telling him, &#8220David went to Ahimelech&#8217s house.&#8221 Why brag about evil, you hero! God&#8217s faithful love is constant. <a href="/asv/psalms/52.htm">American Standard Version</a> For the Chief Musician. Maschil of David; when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said unto him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech. Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? The lovingkindness of God endureth continually. <a href="/cev/psalms/52.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> You people may be strong and brag about your sins, but God can be trusted day after day. <a href="/erv/psalms/52.htm">English Revised Version</a> For the Chief Musician. Maschil of David: when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said unto him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech. Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? the mercy of God endureth continually. <a href="/gwt/psalms/52.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> [For the choir director; a [maskil]; a psalm by David when Doeg (who was from Edom) told Saul that David had come to Ahimelech's home.] Why do you brag about the evil you've done, you hero? The mercy of God lasts all day long! <a href="/gnt/psalms/52.htm">Good News Translation</a> Why do you boast, great one, of your evil? God's faithfulness is eternal. <a href="/isv/psalms/52.htm">International Standard Version</a> Why do you make evil the foundation of your boasting, mighty one? God's gracious love never ceases. <a href="/msb/psalms/52.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For the choirmaster. A Maskil of David. After Doeg the Edomite went to Saul and told him, ?David has gone to the house of Ahimelech.? Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? The loving devotion of God endures all day long. <a href="/net/psalms/52.htm">NET Bible</a> For the music director; a well-written song by David. It was written when Doeg the Edomite went and informed Saul: "David has arrived at the home of Ahimelech." Why do you boast about your evil plans, O powerful man? God's loyal love protects me all day long! <a href="/nheb/psalms/52.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> [For the Chief Musician. A contemplation by David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, "David has come to Abimelech's house."] Why do you boast of mischief, mighty man? God's loving kindness endures continually. <a href="/wbt/psalms/52.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> To the chief Musician, Maschil, A Psalm of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said to him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech. Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God endureth continually. <a href="/web/psalms/52.htm">World English Bible</a> For the Chief Musician. A contemplation by David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, “David has come to Ahimelech’s house.” Why do you boast of mischief, mighty man? God’s loving kindness endures continually. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/psalms/52.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> TO THE OVERSEER. AN INSTRUCTION OF DAVID, IN THE COMING IN OF DOEG THE EDOMITE, AND HE DECLARES TO SAUL AND SAYS TO HIM, “DAVID CAME TO THE HOUSE OF AHIMELECH.” Why do you boast in evil, O mighty one? The kindness of God [is] all the day. <a href="/ylt/psalms/52.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> To the Overseer. -- An instruction, by David, in the coming in of Doeg the Edomite, and he declareth to Saul, and saith to him, 'David came in unto the house of Ahimelech.' What, boasteth thou in evil, O mighty one? The kindness of God is all the day. <a href="/slt/psalms/52.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> <RF q=*>The original Julia E. Smith Bible records the following as a verse reference for <a href=#>Ps 52:1-3</a><Rf>To the overseer instruction to David: In the coming of Doeg the Edomite to Saul, and he will say to him, David came to the house of Ahimelech. Why wilt thou boast in evil, thou strong one? the mercy of God is all the day.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/psalms/52.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Unto the end, understanding for David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul David went to the house of Achimelech Why dost thou glory in malice, thou that art mighty in iniquity? <a href="/cpdv/psalms/52.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> <V 51:1>Unto the end. The understanding of David. <V 51:2>When Doeg the Edomite came and reported to Saul, David went to the house of Ahimelech. <V 51:3>Why do you glory in malice, you who are powerful in iniquity? <a href="/nabre/psalms/52.htm">New American Bible</a> For the leader. A maskil of David, [2] when Doeg the Edomite entered and reported to Saul, saying to him: “David has entered the house of Ahimelech.” [3] Why do you glory in what is evil, you who are mighty by the mercy of God? <a href="/nrsvce/psalms/52.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Why do you boast, O mighty one, of mischief done against the godly? All day long <div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/psalms/52.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> WHY do you boast of evil, O mighty man? Your tongue devises injustices against the innocent every day. <a href="/hpbt/psalms/52.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Why do you boast in evil, oh, mighty man, and against the innocent every day?<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/psalms/52.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> For the Leader. Maschil of David; when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said unto him: 'David is come to the house of Ahimelech.' Why boastest thou thyself of evil, O mighty man? The mercy of God endureth continually. <a href="/sep/psalms/52.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> For the end, a Psalm of instruction by David, when Doec the Idumean came and told Saul, and said to him, David is gone to the house of Abimelech. Why dost thou, O mighty man, boast of iniquity in thy mischief? All the day <a href="/parallel/psalms/52-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=6184" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/psalms/52.htm">Why Do You Boast of Evil?</a> 1<a href="/hebrew/5329.htm" title="5329: lam·naṣ·ṣê·aḥ (Prep-l, Art:: V-Piel-Prtcpl-ms) -- Preeminent or enduring. A primitive root; properly, to glitter from afar, i.e. To be eminent; also, to be permanent.">For the choirmaster.</a> <a href="/hebrew/4905.htm" title="4905: maś·kîl (N-ms) -- Instructive, a didactic poem. From sakal; instructive, i.e. A didactic poem.">A Maskil</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: lə·ḏā·wiḏ (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">of David.</a> <a href="/hebrew/1673.htm" title="1673: dō·w·’êḡ (N-proper-ms) -- An Edomite. Or Dowoeg; active participle of da'ag; anxious; Doeg, an Edomite.">After Doeg</a> <a href="/hebrew/130.htm" title="130: hā·’ă·ḏō·mî (Art:: N-proper-ms) -- A desc. of Edom. Or aedowmiy; patronymic from 'Edom; an Edomite, or descendants from Edom.">the Edomite</a> <a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: bə·ḇō·w (Prep-b:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">went</a> <a href="/hebrew/7586.htm" title="7586: lə·šā·’ūl (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Passive participle of sha'al; asked; Shaul, the name of an Edomite and two Israelites.">to Saul</a> <a href="/hebrew/5046.htm" title="5046: way·yag·gêḏ (Conj-w:: V-Hifil-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To be conspicuous. ">and told</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say."></a> <a href="/hebrew/lōw (Prep:: 3ms) -- ">him,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: ḏā·wiḏ (N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">“David</a> <a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: bā (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">has gone</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/1004.htm" title="1004: bêṯ (N-msc) -- A house. Probably from banah abbreviated; a house.">the house</a> <a href="/hebrew/288.htm" title="288: ’ă·ḥî·me·leḵ (N-proper-ms) -- From 'ach and melek; brother of king; Achimelek, the name of an Israelite and of a Hittite.">of Ahimelech.”</a> <a href="/hebrew/4100.htm" title="4100: mah- (Interrog) -- What? how? anything. "> Why</a> <a href="/hebrew/1984.htm" title="1984: tiṯ·hal·lêl (V-Hitpael-Imperf-2ms) -- To shine.">do you boast</a> <a href="/hebrew/7451.htm" title="7451: bə·rā·‘āh (Prep-b:: Adj-fs) -- Bad, evil. From ra'a'; bad or evil.">of evil,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1368.htm" title="1368: hag·gib·bō·wr (Art:: Adj-ms) -- Strong, mighty. Or gibbor; intensive from the same as geber; powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant.">O mighty man?</a> <a href="/hebrew/2617.htm" title="2617: ḥe·seḏ (N-msc) -- Kindness, piety, reproof, beauty. From chacad; kindness; by implication piety: rarely reproof, or Beauty.">The loving devotion</a> <a href="/hebrew/410.htm" title="410: ’êl (N-ms) -- God, in pl. gods. Shortened from 'ayil; strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the Almighty.">of God</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: kāl- (N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">endures all</a> <a href="/hebrew/3117.htm" title="3117: hay·yō·wm (Art:: N-ms) -- Day. From an unused root meaning to be hot; a day, whether literal, or figurative.">day long.</a> 2Your tongue devises destruction like a sharpened razor, O worker of deceit.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/james/3-5.htm">James 3:5-6</a> In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. / The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. <a href="/proverbs/10-31.htm">Proverbs 10:31-32</a> The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be cut out. / The lips of the righteous know what is fitting, but the mouth of the wicked is perverse. <a href="/jeremiah/9-23.htm">Jeremiah 9:23-24</a> This is what the LORD says: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. / But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD. <a href="/romans/2-4.htm">Romans 2:4</a> Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance? <a href="/isaiah/40-8.htm">Isaiah 40:8</a> The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.” <a href="/1_samuel/2-3.htm">1 Samuel 2:3</a> Do not boast so proudly, or let arrogance come from your mouth, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by Him actions are weighed. <a href="/matthew/12-34.htm">Matthew 12:34-37</a> You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. / The good man brings good things out of his good store of treasure, and the evil man brings evil things out of his evil store of treasure. / But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. ... <a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a> Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-31.htm">1 Corinthians 1:31</a> Therefore, as it is written: “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” <a href="/isaiah/37-23.htm">Isaiah 37:23-24</a> Whom have you taunted and blasphemed? Against whom have you raised your voice and lifted your eyes in pride? Against the Holy One of Israel! / Through your servants you have taunted the Lord, and you have said: “With my many chariots I have ascended to the heights of the mountains, to the remote peaks of Lebanon. I have cut down its tallest cedars, the finest of its cypresses. I have reached its farthest heights, the densest of its forests. <a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">1 Peter 3:10</a> For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. <a href="/proverbs/12-18.htm">Proverbs 12:18</a> Speaking rashly is like a piercing sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. <a href="/luke/6-45.htm">Luke 6:45</a> The good man brings good things out of the good treasure of his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil treasure of his heart. For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. <a href="/isaiah/10-15.htm">Isaiah 10:15</a> Does an axe raise itself above the one who swings it? Does a saw boast over him who saws with it? It would be like a rod waving the one who lifts it, or a staff lifting him who is not wood! <a href="/2_timothy/3-2.htm">2 Timothy 3:2-5</a> For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, / unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, / traitorous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, ...</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Why boast you yourself in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God endures continually.A.<a href="/psalms/54-3.htm">Psalm 54:3</a> For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.<a href="/1_samuel/21-7.htm">1 Samuel 21:7</a> Now a certain man of the servants of Saul was there that day, detained before the LORD; and his name was Doeg, an Edomite, the chiefest of the herdmen that belonged to Saul.<a href="/1_samuel/22-9.htm">1 Samuel 22:9-19</a> Then answered Doeg the Edomite, which was set over the servants of Saul, and said, I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub… told<a href="/psalms/59-7.htm">Psalm 59:7</a> Behold, they belch out with their mouth: swords are in their lips: for who, say they, doth hear?<a href="/jeremiah/9-8.htm">Jeremiah 9:8</a> Their tongue is as an arrow shot out; it speaketh deceit: one speaketh peaceably to his neighbour with his mouth, but in heart he layeth his wait.<a href="/exodus/22-9.htm">Exodus 22:9</a> For all manner of trespass, whether it be for ox, for ass, for sheep, for raiment, or for any manner of lost thing, which another challengeth to be his, the cause of both parties shall come before the judges; and whom the judges shall condemn, he shall pay double unto his neighbour.boastest<a href="/psalms/10-2.htm">Psalm 10:2,3</a> The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined… <a href="/psalms/94-4.htm">Psalm 94:4</a> How long shall they utter and speak hard things? and all the workers of iniquity boast themselves?<a href="/romans/1-30.htm">Romans 1:30</a> Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,mischief<a href="/psalms/7-14.htm">Psalm 7:14</a> Behold, he travaileth with iniquity, and hath conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood.<a href="/psalms/10-7.htm">Psalm 10:7</a> His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud: under his tongue is mischief and vanity.<a href="/psalms/36-3.htm">Psalm 36:3-6</a> The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, and to do good… O mighty<a href="/genesis/6-4.htm">Genesis 6:4,5</a> There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown… <a href="/genesis/10-8.htm">Genesis 10:8,9</a> And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth… <a href="/1_samuel/21-7.htm">1 Samuel 21:7</a> Now a certain man of the servants of Saul was there that day, detained before the LORD; and his name was Doeg, an Edomite, the chiefest of the herdmen that belonged to Saul.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/judges/9-53.htm">Abimelech's</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/24-31.htm">Ahimelech</a> <a href="/psalms/49-6.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-7.htm">Boastest</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/psalms/49-1.htm">Choirmaster</a> <a href="/psalms/45-1.htm">Contemplation</a> <a href="/psalms/51-3.htm">Continually</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/51-1.htm">Director</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Doeg</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Edomite</a> <a href="/psalms/45-6.htm">Endures</a> <a href="/psalms/30-5.htm">Endureth</a> <a href="/psalms/51-5.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/psalms/50-5.htm">Godly</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">God's</a> <a href="/psalms/33-5.htm">Goodness</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">House</a> <a href="/psalms/51-1.htm">Kindness</a> <a href="/psalms/51-1.htm">Loving</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Maschil</a> <a href="/psalms/45-1.htm">Maskil</a> <a href="/psalms/50-3.htm">Mighty</a> <a href="/psalms/41-6.htm">Mischief</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Musician</a> <a href="/psalms/51-19.htm">Saul</a> <a href="/psalms/50-21.htm">Thyself</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/genesis/20-18.htm">Abimelech's</a> <a href="/1_samuel/21-1.htm">Ahimelech</a> <a href="/psalms/63-11.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/romans/2-23.htm">Boastest</a> <a href="/psalms/52-9.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/psalms/53-1.htm">Choirmaster</a> <a href="/psalms/53-1.htm">Contemplation</a> <a href="/psalms/58-7.htm">Continually</a> <a href="/psalms/52-9.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/53-1.htm">Director</a> <a href="/1_samuel/21-7.htm">Doeg</a> <a href="/genesis/36-43.htm">Edomite</a> <a href="/psalms/72-5.htm">Endures</a> <a href="/psalms/72-5.htm">Endureth</a> <a href="/psalms/52-3.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/psalms/52-9.htm">Godly</a> <a href="/psalms/52-8.htm">God's</a> <a href="/psalms/65-4.htm">Goodness</a> <a href="/psalms/52-8.htm">House</a> <a href="/psalms/52-8.htm">Kindness</a> <a href="/psalms/52-8.htm">Loving</a> <a href="/psalms/52-9.htm">Maschil</a> <a href="/psalms/53-1.htm">Maskil</a> <a href="/psalms/59-3.htm">Mighty</a> <a href="/psalms/55-3.htm">Mischief</a> <a href="/psalms/52-9.htm">Musician</a> <a href="/psalms/53-6.htm">Saul</a> <a href="/psalms/55-1.htm">Thyself</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 52</div>1. <a href="/psalms/52-1.htm">David, condemning the spitefulness of Doeg, prophesies his destruction</a> 6. <a href="/psalms/52-6.htm">The righteous shall rejoice at it</a> 8. <a href="/psalms/52-8.htm">David, upon his confidence in God's mercy, gives thanks</a> </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'; 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This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was to be directed by the choirmaster. It suggests a structured and communal aspect of worship in ancient Israel, where music played a significant role in temple services.A Maskil of David. The term "Maskil" is often understood as a type of psalm that imparts wisdom or instruction. David, the attributed author, was not only a king but also a skilled musician and poet, known for his deep relationship with God and his ability to express complex emotions and spiritual truths through his writings.After Doeg the Edomite went to Saul and told him, “David has gone to the house of Ahimelech.” This historical context refers to the events in <a href="/1_samuel/21.htm">1 Samuel 21-22</a>, where Doeg the Edomite, a servant of King Saul, reported to Saul that David had visited Ahimelech the priest. This act of betrayal led to the tragic massacre of the priests at Nob. Doeg's actions exemplify treachery and the misuse of power, contrasting with David's reliance on God.Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? This rhetorical question challenges the arrogance and pride of those who commit evil acts, like Doeg. The term "mighty man" is likely used sarcastically, highlighting the futility and moral corruption of boasting in wrongdoing. It serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that true strength and honor come from righteousness and obedience to God.The loving devotion of God endures all day long. This phrase emphasizes the steadfast and unchanging nature of God's love and mercy, which persist despite human sinfulness. It contrasts the temporary and destructive nature of evil with the eternal and benevolent character of God. This enduring love is a central theme throughout Scripture, pointing to God's covenant faithfulness and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who embodies divine love and grace.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> The author of the psalm, traditionally believed to have written it in response to the actions of Doeg the Edomite. 2. <a href="/topical/d/doeg_the_edomite.htm">Doeg the Edomite</a> A figure mentioned in <a href="/bsb/1_samuel/21.htm">1 Samuel 21-22</a>, known for betraying David and causing the death of the priests at Nob. 3. <a href="/topical/n/nob.htm">Nob</a> A city of priests in ancient Israel, where Doeg reported to Saul about David's visit, leading to the massacre of the priests. 4. <a href="/topical/s/saul.htm">Saul</a> The first king of Israel, who was pursuing David out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne. 5. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The central figure in the psalm, whose enduring loving devotion contrasts with the evil actions of the mighty man.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_futility_of_boasting_in_evil.htm">The Futility of Boasting in Evil</a> Boasting in evil is ultimately futile because God's justice and righteousness prevail. Reflect on areas in life where pride or boasting may be present and seek humility before God. <a href="/topical/t/the_enduring_nature_of_god's_love.htm">The Enduring Nature of God's Love</a> God's loving devotion is constant and unchanging, providing a foundation of hope and security. In times of trouble or when facing opposition, remember and rely on God's enduring love. <a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_betrayal_and_deceit.htm">The Consequences of Betrayal and Deceit</a> The account of Doeg serves as a warning about the destructive power of betrayal and deceit. Consider the impact of your words and actions on others, striving for integrity and truthfulness. <a href="/topical/t/trust_in_god's_sovereignty.htm">Trust in God's Sovereignty</a> Despite the presence of evil, God's sovereign plan is unthwarted. Trust in God's ultimate control and justice, even when circumstances seem dire.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_52.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 52</a> <a href="/q/why_boast_of_evil_if_god's_good_is_eternal.htm">In Psalm 52:1, how can a “mighty man” boast of evil if God’s goodness is supposedly everlasting? </a> <a href="/q/what_is_foreknowledge.htm">Why did Doeg betray David to King Saul?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_psalm_52_6-7_with_evildoers'_prosperity.htm">How do we reconcile Psalm 52:6–7 with other biblical texts that show evildoers prospering instead of being mocked? </a> <a href="/q/why_did_doeg_betray_david_to_king_saul.htm">Why did Doeg betray David to King Saul?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/52.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(1) Mighty man.--Better, hero, used sarcastically. LXX. and Vulg., "a mighty one at mischief." (Comp. <a href="/isaiah/5-22.htm" title="Woe to them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink:">Isaiah 5:22</a> : "a hero at drinking.") The order of the Hebrew is, however, against this, and in favour of the English, why dost thou exult in wickedness, O hero, i.e., perhaps, not only his own, but in the wickedness the people are led into by his means. This seems necessitated by the next clause. In spite of man's folly and sin, God's covenant favour endures all the day long.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/52.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 1. - Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? Doeg was "the chiefest of the herdmen that belonged to Saul" (<a href="/1_samuel/21-7.htm">1 Samuel 21:7</a>), or, according to another passage (<a href="/1_samuel/22-9.htm">1 Samuel 22:9</a>), "set over the servants of Saul." The position would be a high one, and would imply the possession of much physical strength. A sense of tyranny or extreme arrogance seems to attach to the word translated "mighty one" (gibber); see <a href="/genesis/6-4.htm">Genesis 6:4</a>; <a href="/genesis/10-8.htm">Genesis 10:8</a>. The word translated "mischief" implies something worse. In <a href="/psalms/6-9.htm">Psalm 6:9</a> it is rendered "wickedness," and is thought to mean, in the Psalms generally, "ruinous, unfathomable evil - destructive malignity" (Canon Cook). The goodness of God endureth continually. Why not follow the Divine pattern, instead of setting thyself in direct antagonism to it? Canst thou expect to prosper when thou art thus opposed to the Almighty? <a href="/commentaries/psalms/52-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>For the choirmaster. לַמְנַצֵּ֗חַ (lam·naṣ·ṣê·aḥ) Preposition-l, Article | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5329.htm">Strong's 5329: </a> To glitter from afar, to be eminent, to be permanent A Maskil מַשְׂכִּ֥יל (maś·kîl) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4905.htm">Strong's 4905: </a> Instructive, a didactic poem of David. לְדָוִֽד׃ (lə·ḏā·wiḏ) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse After Doeg דּוֹאֵ֣ג (dō·w·’êḡ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1673.htm">Strong's 1673: </a> Doeg -- an Edomite the Edomite הָאֲדֹמִי֮ (hā·’ă·ḏō·mî) Article | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_130.htm">Strong's 130: </a> Edomite -- a descendant of Edom went בְּב֤וֹא ׀ (bə·ḇō·w) Preposition-b | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> To come in, come, go in, go to Saul לְשָׁ֫א֥וּל (lə·šā·’ūl) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7586.htm">Strong's 7586: </a> Saul -- first king of Israel, also an Edomite and two Israelites and told וַיַּגֵּ֪ד (way·yag·gêḏ) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5046.htm">Strong's 5046: </a> To be conspicuous him, ל֑וֹ (lōw) Preposition | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> “David דָ֝וִ֗ד (ḏā·wiḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse has gone בָּ֥א (bā) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> To come in, come, go in, go to אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to the house בֵּ֥ית (bêṯ) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1004.htm">Strong's 1004: </a> A house of Ahimelech.” אֲחִימֶֽלֶךְ׃ (’ă·ḥî·me·leḵ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_288.htm">Strong's 288: </a> Ahimelech -- 'brother of a king', an Israelite name, also a Hittite name Why מַה־ (mah-) Interrogative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4100.htm">Strong's 4100: </a> What?, what!, indefinitely what do you boast תִּתְהַלֵּ֣ל (tiṯ·hal·lêl) Verb - Hitpael - Imperfect - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1984.htm">Strong's 1984: </a> To shine of evil, בְּ֭רָעָה (bə·rā·‘āh) Preposition-b | Adjective - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7451.htm">Strong's 7451: </a> Bad, evil O mighty man? הַגִּבּ֑וֹר (hag·gib·bō·wr) Article | Adjective - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1368.htm">Strong's 1368: </a> Powerful, warrior, tyrant The loving devotion חֶ֥סֶד (ḥe·seḏ) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2617.htm">Strong's 2617: </a> Kindness, piety, reproof, beauty of God אֵ֝֗ל (’êl) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_410.htm">Strong's 410: </a> Strength -- as adjective, mighty, the Almighty [endures] all כָּל־ (kāl-) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> The whole, all, any, every day long. הַיּֽוֹם׃ (hay·yō·wm) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3117.htm">Strong's 3117: </a> A day <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/psalms/52-1.htm">Psalm 52:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/psalms/52-1.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 52:1 For the Chief Musician (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/51-19.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 51:19"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 51:19" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/52-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 52:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 52:2" /></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>