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Psalms 17:2

Psalms 17:2 in Multiple Translations

May my vindication come from Your presence; may Your eyes see what is right.

Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.

Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; Let thine eyes look upon equity.

Be my judge; for your eyes see what is right.

Vindicate me before you—for you see what is right.

Let my sentence come forth from thy presence, and let thine eyes beholde equitie.

From before thee my judgment doth go out; Thine eyes do see uprightly.

Let my sentence come out of your presence. Let your eyes look on equity.

Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; let thy eyes behold the things that are equal.

I will love thee, O Lord, my strength:

You are the one who is able to declare that I ◄am innocent/have not done anything that was wrong► because you see/know that I am telling the truth.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 17:2

BAB
Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Psalms 17:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB מִ֭/לְּ/פָנֶי/ךָ מִשְׁפָּטִ֣/י יֵצֵ֑א עֵ֝ינֶ֗י/ךָ תֶּחֱזֶ֥ינָה מֵישָׁרִֽים
מִ֭/לְּ/פָנֶי/ךָ pânîym H6440 face Prep | Prep | N-cp | Suff
מִשְׁפָּטִ֣/י mishpâṭ H4941 justice N-ms | Suff
יֵצֵ֑א yâtsâʼ H3318 to come out V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
עֵ֝ינֶ֗י/ךָ ʻayin H5869 eye N-cd | Suff
תֶּחֱזֶ֥ינָה châzâh H2372 to see V-Qal-Imperf-3fp
מֵישָׁרִֽים mêyshâr H4339 uprightness N-mp
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 17:2

מִ֭/לְּ/פָנֶי/ךָ pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | Prep | N-cp | Suff
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
מִשְׁפָּטִ֣/י mishpâṭ H4941 "justice" N-ms | Suff
Mishpat means justice or judgment, and is often used to describe God's righteous judgment, as well as human laws and decisions, in books like Deuteronomy and Isaiah.
Definition: : judgement/punishment 1) judgment, justice, ordinance 1a) judgment 1a1) act of deciding a case 1a2) place, court, seat of judgment 1a3) process, procedure, litigation (before judges) 1a4) case, cause (presented for judgment) 1a5) sentence, decision (of judgment) 1a6) execution (of judgment) 1a7) time (of judgment) 1b) justice, right, rectitude (attributes of God or man) 1c) ordinance 1d) decision (in law) 1e) right, privilege, due (legal) 1f) proper, fitting, measure, fitness, custom, manner, plan
Usage: Occurs in 406 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] adversary, ceremony, charge, [idiom] crime, custom, desert, determination, discretion, disposing, due, fashion, form, to be judged, judgment, just(-ice, -ly), (manner of) law(-ful), manner, measure, (due) order, ordinance, right, sentence, usest, [idiom] worthy, [phrase] wrong. See also: Genesis 18:19; 1 Kings 2:3; Psalms 1:5.
יֵצֵ֑א yâtsâʼ H3318 "to come out" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.
Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth
Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.
עֵ֝ינֶ֗י/ךָ ʻayin H5869 "eye" N-cd | Suff
This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.
תֶּחֱזֶ֥ינָה châzâh H2372 "to see" V-Qal-Imperf-3fp
Chazah means to see or perceive, and can also mean to have a vision or prophesy. It is used to describe seeing something with your eyes or in your mind.
Definition: 1) to see, perceive, look, behold, prophesy, provide 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to see, behold 1a2) to see as a seer in the ecstatic state 1a3) to see, perceive 1a3a) with the intelligence 1a3b) to see (by experience) 1a3c) to provide Aramaic equivalent: cha.zah (חֲזָה "to see" H2370)
Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: behold, look, prophesy, provide, see. See also: Exodus 18:21; Proverbs 24:32; Psalms 11:4.
מֵישָׁרִֽים mêyshâr H4339 "uprightness" N-mp
Uprightness refers to being fair and just, as seen in the Bible. It can also mean smoothness or straightness, often used to describe doing things rightly.
Definition: 1) evenness, uprightness, straightness, equity 1a) evenness, level, smoothness 1b) uprightness, equity 1c) rightly (as adv)
Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: agreement, aright, that are equal, equity, (things that are) right(-eously, things), sweetly, upright(-ly, -ness). See also: 1 Chronicles 29:17; Proverbs 2:9; Psalms 9:9.

Study Notes — Psalms 17:2

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Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Psalms 37:6 He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn, your justice like the noonday sun.
2 Ezekiel 18:25 Yet you say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ Hear now, O house of Israel: Is it My way that is unjust? Is it not your ways that are unjust?
3 2 Thessalonians 1:6–9 After all, it is only right for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you, and to grant relief to you who are oppressed and to us as well. This will take place when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in blazing fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the penalty of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His might,
4 Ezekiel 18:29 Yet the house of Israel says, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ Are My ways unjust, O house of Israel? Is it not your ways that are unjust?
5 Jude 1:24 Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you unblemished in His glorious presence, with great joy—
6 Ezekiel 33:17 Yet your people say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ But it is their way that is not just.
7 Psalms 37:33 the LORD will not leave them in their power or let them be condemned under judgment.
8 Ezekiel 33:20 Yet you say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ But I will judge each of you according to his ways, O house of Israel.”

Psalms 17:2 Summary

This verse means that we can trust God to make things right and to see what is fair, even when we feel like we are being treated unfairly. We can ask God to look at our situation and to make a decision based on what is right, knowing that He is a just and loving God, as shown in Psalms 103:6, which says that God works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. By seeking God's vindication, we are putting our trust in Him and His goodness, and we can have confidence that He will work everything out for our good, as stated in Romans 8:28.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to ask for vindication from God's presence?

Asking for vindication from God's presence, as seen in Psalms 17:2, means seeking God's approval and validation, knowing that He is the ultimate judge of what is right and just, as stated in Proverbs 21:2, where it says that a person may think their way is right, but the Lord weighs the hearts.

How can we be sure that God sees what is right in our situation?

We can trust that God sees what is right because He is all-knowing and omniscient, as mentioned in Psalms 139:1-6, where David expresses that God has searched him and knows him, and in Hebrews 4:13, which reminds us that everything is naked and exposed before God's eyes.

What is the relationship between seeking vindication and living a life of integrity?

Seeking vindication from God is closely tied to living a life of integrity, as seen in Psalms 17:3-4, where David says that God has tried his heart and found no evil, and he has resolved not to sin with his mouth, demonstrating that a life of integrity is one that seeks to honor God and align with His will, as encouraged in Proverbs 10:9.

How does this verse relate to our everyday struggles and challenges?

This verse reminds us that, even in the midst of challenges and struggles, we can trust that God is our ultimate judge and vindicator, and we can seek His approval and validation, knowing that He is always working for our good, as stated in Romans 8:28, which says that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some areas in my life where I need God's vindication and validation, and how can I seek His presence in those areas?
  2. How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's ability to see what is right and just in my situation, even when circumstances seem unclear?
  3. What are some ways that I can resolve to live a life of integrity, like David, and seek to honor God with my words and actions?
  4. How can I apply the principle of seeking God's approval and validation in my relationships and interactions with others, and what would be the impact on my life and community?

Gill's Exposition on Psalms 17:2

Let my sentence come forth from thy presence,.... Not of condemnation, such as came forth from God and passed on Adam and all his posterity, Romans 5:12; though such an one was executed on Christ, as

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 17:2

Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 17:2

My sentence, Heb. my right or judgment, i.e. judgment in my cause, or on my behalf. From thy presence, i.e. from thee, and from thy tribunal, to which I bring my cause. Do not suspend or delay it, but speedily examine my cause and give sentence in it. Things that are equal, or right. For though I desire and need thy grace and favour in many other respects, yet I beg only thy justice in this cause between me and them.

Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 17:2

Psalms 17:2 Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.Ver. 2. Let my sentence come forth from thy presence] Let it be both pronounced and executed forthwith. Let thine eyes behold, &c.] i.e. Make it appear that thou both seest and likest mine integrity; and that thou winkest not at men’ s wickednesses.

Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 17:2

(2) Let my sentence—i.e., let my cause be tried before Thy tribunal, where it is sure of success, since I am innocent and Thou art just. The second clause is better in the present, “Thine eyes behold,” &c. The things that are equal.—Heb., meysharîm, which may be either abstract, rectitude, or concrete, the just (Son 1:4, Note), or adverbial, justly.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 17:2

Verse 2. My sentence come forth from thy presence] Thou knowest my heart, and my ways; judge me as thou shalt find; let me not fall under the judgment of man. Let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.] Thou knowest whether I render to all their due, and whether others act justly by me. Thou canst not be deceived: do justice between me and my adversaries.

Cambridge Bible on Psalms 17:2

2. The petition. Let my judgement come forth from thy presence. Cp. Psalms 37:6; Isaiah 42:1; Isaiah 42:3-4; Habakkuk 1:4. Pronounce sentence for me; publish it; give effect to it, and vindicate the justice of my cause. Let thine eyes &c.] Better, Thine eyes behold equity, or, with equity. The prayer is based on the known character of Jehovah. His discernment is complete and impartial. Cp. Psalms 11:4; Psalms 9:8.

Barnes' Notes on Psalms 17:2

Let my sentence - Hebrew, “my judgment.” The allusion is to a judgment or sentence as coming from God in regard to the matter referred to in the psalm, to wit, the injuries which he had received from his enemies.

Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 17:2

2. Let my sentence come forth—Rather, my judgment [acquittal] shall come forth from thee. Thine eyes shall behold equity. The verb is declarative, as an expression of faith.

Sermons on Psalms 17:2

SermonDescription
T. Austin-Sparks Wabanna 1966: Title Unknown 4 by T. Austin-Sparks In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of behaving as though there is no tragedy in one's life, even when facing heartbreak. He uses the example of a man who continu
Joshua Daniel An Audit From God by Joshua Daniel This sermon emphasizes the importance of undergoing a spiritual audit before God, reflecting on the need for integrity, transparency, and repentance in our lives. It highlights the
Paul Washer Four Pillars of Walking With God by Paul Washer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having knowledge of the truth. He highlights the need to discern between truth and lies and emphasizes that faith is essen
Bill McLeod Christ Is All - in Human Experience by Bill McLeod In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of humility and obedience in carrying out God's orders. He shares a story of a humble man who mowed a white lady's lawn for tw
Brian Brodersen (2 Thessalonians) the Righteous Judgment of God by Brian Brodersen In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of receiving the revelation of God and being accountable to Him. He emphasizes that those who do not take the step towards God
William MacDonald Studies in 2 Thessalonians-02 2 Thes 1:6-2:5 by William MacDonald In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living as children of God and being a witness to others. He shares a story about a man named Bert Graves who stood out to
John Piper Prayer and the Victory of God by John Piper This sermon emphasizes the power of prayer in bringing about the victory of God. Through various biblical passages and examples, the message highlights how prayers play a crucial r

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