Psalm 94:2
ESV
Rise up, O judge of the earth; repay to the proud what they deserve!
NIV
Rise up, Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve.
NASB
Rise up, Judge of the earth, Pay back retribution to the proud.
CSB
Rise up, Judge of the earth; repay the proud what they deserve.
NLT
Arise, O Judge of the earth. Give the proud what they deserve.
KJV
Lift up thyself, thou judge of the earth: render a reward to the proud.
NKJV
Rise up, O Judge of the earth; Render punishment to the proud.
What does Psalm 94:2 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 94, verse-level content coming soon!Psalm 94:1–7 addresses the Lord as the God of vengeance. The psalmist longs to see God's wrath brought onto those who harm the innocent. These wicked people brag about their sin, as if the Lord weren't aware of their crimes (Psalm 10:11). Though this seems to apply to enemy nations, it may also refer to corrupt leaders and judges.
This song begins with the psalmist's prayer for God's vengeance on arrogant, evil people bragging about their sin. These criminals abuse the Lord's people and think God is unaware. But the Creator who made man knows everything men can know. God sees. He will continue to work out His plan. This will end in restoration for His people and eternal disaster for those who hate Him.
