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Psalms 73:17

Psalms 73:17 in Multiple Translations

until I entered God’s sanctuary; then I discerned their end.

Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end.

Until I went into the sanctuary of God, And considered their latter end.

Till I went into God's holy place, and saw the end of the evil-doers.

until I went into God's Temple. Then I understood what happens to the wicked in the end.

Vntill I went into the Sanctuarie of God: then vnderstoode I their ende.

Till I come in to the sanctuaries of God, I attend to their latter end.

until I entered God’s sanctuary, and considered their latter end.

Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end.

Thou hast made all the borders of the earth: the summer and the spring were formed by thee.

But when I went to your temple, you spoke to me, and I understood what will happen to the wicked people after they die.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 73:17

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 73:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB עַד אָ֭בוֹא אֶל מִקְדְּשֵׁי אֵ֑ל אָ֝בִ֗ינָה לְ/אַחֲרִיתָֽ/ם
עַד ʻad H5704 till Prep
אָ֭בוֹא bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep
מִקְדְּשֵׁי miqdâsh H4720 sanctuary N-mp
אֵ֑ל ʼêl H410 god N-ms
אָ֝בִ֗ינָה bîyn H995 to understand V-Qal-1cs
לְ/אַחֲרִיתָֽ/ם ʼachărîyth H319 end Prep | N-fs | Suff
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 73:17

עַד ʻad H5704 "till" Prep
This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.
Definition: prep 1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as 1a) of space 1a1) as far as, up to, even to 1b) in combination 1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from) 1c) of time 1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end 1d) of degree 1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like conj 2) until, while, to the point that, so that even Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)
Usage: Occurs in 1128 OT verses. KJV: against, and, as, at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as), (hither-) to, [phrase] how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that, till, toward, until, when, while, ([phrase] as) yet. See also: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 32:20; Numbers 23:24.
אָ֭בוֹא bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
מִקְדְּשֵׁי miqdâsh H4720 "sanctuary" N-mp
A sanctuary or holy place, like a temple or palace, set apart for God or idols, a sacred space.
Definition: 1) sacred place, sanctuary, holy place 1a) sanctuary 1a1) of the temple 1a2) of the tabernacle 1a3) of Ezekiel's temple 1a4) of Jehovah
Usage: Occurs in 71 OT verses. KJV: chapel, hallowed part, holy place, sanctuary. See also: Exodus 15:17; Lamentations 1:10; Psalms 68:36.
אֵ֑ל ʼêl H410 "god" N-ms
In the Bible, 'el means strength or power, and is often used to refer to God or false gods. It describes something or someone as mighty or powerful, like the Almighty. This concept is central to understanding the Bible's view of God.
Definition: : god 1) god, god-like one, mighty one 1a) mighty men, men of rank, mighty heroes 1b) angels 1c) god, false god, (demons, imaginations) 1d) God, the one true God, Jehovah 2) mighty things in nature 3) strength, power Also means: ": power" (el אֵל H0410L)
Usage: Occurs in 235 OT verses. KJV: God (god), [idiom] goodly, [idiom] great, idol, might(-y one), power, strong. Compare names in '-el.' See also: Genesis 14:18; Job 33:14; Psalms 5:5.
אָ֝בִ֗ינָה bîyn H995 "to understand" V-Qal-1cs
To understand or discern, this verb means to separate mentally and know something with your mind, as seen in Proverbs where it talks about gaining insight.
Definition: 1) to discern, understand, consider 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to perceive, discern 1a2) to understand, know (with the mind) 1a3) to observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider 1a4) to have discernment, insight, understanding 1b) (Niphal) to be discerning, intelligent, discreet, have understanding 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to understand 1c2) to cause to understand, give understanding, teach 1d) (Hithpolel) to show oneself discerning or attentive, consider diligently 1e) (Polel) to teach, instruct 2) (TWOT) prudent, regard
Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: attend, consider, be cunning, diligently, direct, discern, eloquent, feel, inform, instruct, have intelligence, know, look well to, mark, perceive, be prudent, regard, (can) skill(-full), teach, think, (cause, make to, get, give, have) understand(-ing), view, (deal) wise(-ly, man). See also: Genesis 41:33; Psalms 139:2; Psalms 5:2.
לְ/אַחֲרִיתָֽ/ם ʼachărîyth H319 "end" Prep | N-fs | Suff
End refers to the last or final part of something, including time or events. It can also mean the future or what comes after. In the Bible, it is often used to describe the latter time or posterity.
Definition: 1) after part, end 1a) end, issue, event 1b) latter time (prophetic for future time) 1c) posterity 1d) last, hindermost Aramaic equivalent: a.cha.rit (אַחֲרִית "latter" H0320)
Usage: Occurs in 60 OT verses. KJV: (last, latter) end (time), hinder (utter) -most, length, posterity, remnant, residue, reward. See also: Genesis 49:1; Ecclesiastes 7:8; Psalms 37:37.

Study Notes — Psalms 73:17

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Luke 12:20 But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?’
2 Psalms 77:13 Your way, O God, is holy. What god is so great as our God?
3 Ecclesiastes 8:12–13 Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and still lives long, yet I also know that it will go well with those who fear God, who are reverent in His presence. Yet because the wicked do not fear God, it will not go well with them, and their days will not lengthen like a shadow.
4 Psalms 27:4 One thing I have asked of the LORD; this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and seek Him in His temple.
5 Psalms 63:2 So I have seen You in the sanctuary and beheld Your power and glory.
6 Psalms 119:24 Your testimonies are indeed my delight; they are my counselors.
7 Psalms 37:37–38 Consider the blameless and observe the upright, for posterity awaits the man of peace. But the transgressors will all be destroyed; the future of the wicked will be cut off.
8 Psalms 119:130 The unfolding of Your words gives light; it informs the simple.
9 Job 27:8 For what is the hope of the godless when he is cut off, when God takes away his life?
10 Jeremiah 5:31 The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule by their own authority. My people love it so, but what will you do in the end?

Psalms 73:17 Summary

[Psalms 73:17 means that when we are confused or troubled by the things we see in the world, we can find peace and understanding by seeking God's presence in prayer and worship, as seen in Psalm 27:4, where it says we can behold the beauty of the Lord and inquire in His temple. By entering God's sanctuary, we can gain a deeper understanding of His ways and trust in His sovereignty, as promised in Romans 8:28, that all things work together for good to those who love God. This verse reminds us that God is always in control, even when things seem unfair or confusing, and we can find strength and comfort in His presence, as encouraged in Psalm 37:1-7, to trust in the Lord and do good.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to enter God's sanctuary?

Entering God's sanctuary refers to a place of worship, prayer, and communion with God, where one can gain a deeper understanding of His ways, as seen in Psalms 73:17, and as promised in Psalm 27:4, to behold the beauty of the Lord and inquire in His temple.

How did the psalmist discern the end of the wicked?

The psalmist discerned the end of the wicked by seeking God's perspective in His sanctuary, which gave him a clearer understanding of God's judgment, as mentioned in Psalms 73:17, and as warned in Proverbs 10:29, the way of the Lord is strength for the upright, but destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.

What can we learn from the psalmist's experience?

We can learn that seeking God's presence and perspective is essential to understanding His ways and finding peace in the midst of confusion, as seen in Psalms 73:17, and as encouraged in Jeremiah 29:13, to seek the Lord with all our heart.

How does this verse relate to our daily struggles?

This verse reminds us that when we are troubled by the apparent prosperity of the wicked, we should seek God's sanctuary, where we can gain a deeper understanding of His sovereignty and justice, as seen in Psalms 37:1-7, and as promised in Romans 8:28, that all things work together for good to those who love God.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some ways I can 'enter God's sanctuary' in my daily life to gain a deeper understanding of His ways?
  2. How do I respond when I see the wicked prospering, and what can I learn from the psalmist's experience?
  3. What are some distractions or troubles that prevent me from seeking God's presence, and how can I overcome them?
  4. How can I apply the lesson of Psalms 73:17 to my own struggles and doubts, and what promises can I cling to in times of uncertainty?

Gill's Exposition on Psalms 73:17

Until I went into the sanctuary of God,.... The tabernacle or house of God, where the Word of God was read and explained, prayer was made, and sacrifices offered up, and where fellowship was had with

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 73:17

Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. -The victory which he gained over his doubts in the sanctuary when he understood the end of the godless. Verse 17.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 73:17

Till I consulted with the oracle, or word of God. He alludes to the practice of those times, which was, in dark and difficult cases, to resort to God’ s sanctuary, and the oracle in it, for satisfaction. Then understood I their end; there I learned that their posterity was short, and would quickly have an end, and that a most dismal and terrible one; that their fair morn would be followed with a black and dreadful evening, and an everlasting night.

Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 73:17

Psalms 73:17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God; [then] understood I their end.Ver. 17. Until I went into the sanctuary of God] And there consulted with the Scriptures, heard the lectures of the law, prayed, went through all the exercises of God’ s school. Then understood I their end] To be such as God pronounceth of them in the Scriptures, and as the effect and common experience sometimes declareth. For some wicked God punisheth here, lest his providence, but not all, lest his patience and promise of judgment, should be called into question, saith Austin, in Psalms 36:12

Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 73:17

(17) Then understood I . . .—Rather, I considered their end. The Temple service, with its blessings on righteousness, and stern warnings against wickedness, as they were read from the Book of the Law or from one of the prophets, or were chanted from some ancient song, gave the needed turn to the psalmist’s speculations. He began to think not of the present, but the future; not of the advantages of sin, but its consequences—but still consequences in this world, the thought of a hereafter not having established itself sufficiently to have an ethical force.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 73:17

Verse 17. Until I went into the sanctuary] Until, in the use of thy ordinances, I entered into a deep consideration of thy secret counsels, and considered the future state of the righteous and the wicked; that the unequal distribution of temporal good and evil argued a future judgment; that the present is a state of trial; and that God exercises his followers according to his godly wisdom and tender mercy. Then light sprang up in my mind, and I was assured that all these exercises were for our benefit, and that the prosperity of the wicked here was a prelude to their destruction. And this I saw to be their end. That this Psalm was written during the captivity, there is little room to doubt. How then can the psalmist speak of the sanctuary? There was none at Babylon; and at Jerusalem it had been long since destroyed? There is no way to solve this difficulty but by considering that מקדשי mikdeshey may be taken in the sense of holy places-places set apart for prayer and meditation. And that the captives had such places in their captivity, there can be no doubt; and the place that is set apart to meet God in, for prayer, supplication, confession of sin, and meditation, is holy unto the Lord; and is, therefore, his sanctuary, whether a house or the open field. Calmet thinks by holy meditations a view of the Divine secrets, to which he refers, Psalms 73:24, is here meant.

Cambridge Bible on Psalms 73:17

15–28. Faith triumphant in the conviction of an ultimate judgement and the consciousness of the supreme blessedness of fellowship with God.

Barnes' Notes on Psalms 73:17

Until I went into the sanctuary of God - The word “sanctuary” we now apply to a place of public worship; and, thus understood, the passage here would mean that he learned the truth on the subject

Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 73:17

17. I went into the sanctuary of God—The word “sanctuary” is in the plural in Hebrew, which indicates that there were holy places where the word of God was read and taught.

Sermons on Psalms 73:17

SermonDescription
Art Katz Beyond Categories by Art Katz In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking a deeper understanding of God and His truth. He highlights the need to move beyond our current understanding and be
Keith Daniel The Use and Abuse of Money by Keith Daniel In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commandments and warns of the repercussions for ignoring them. He specifically focuses on the message in Jam
Neil Fraser Studies in the Psalms 06 I Went Into Sanctuary by Neil Fraser In this sermon, the preacher discusses the temptation to envy the apparent prosperity and pleasure of those who engage in sinful activities. He encourages the audience to focus on
Keith Simons (How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 27 Psalm 73 by Keith Simons Keith Simons explores Psalm 73, where Asaph grapples with the apparent prosperity of the wicked compared to the struggles of the righteous. Asaph confesses his envy towards the see
Erlo Stegen Two Crucial Matters to Consider by Erlo Stegen Erlo Stegen emphasizes the inevitability of death and judgment, reminding us that while many seek to avoid death, it is ultimately in God's hands. He reflects on the futility of wo
Harry Ironside Boast Not Thyself by Harry Ironside In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not procrastinating when it comes to accepting the gospel and becoming a Christian. He warns that many people in a land wh
Chuck Smith (The Word for Today) Isaiah 28:16 - Part 1 by Chuck Smith In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the dream of Nebuchadnezzar as recorded in the book of Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar had a dream about a great image with different materials

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