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The wicked walk on every side, When what is vile is exalted among the sons of men. Psalm 13 For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David.

Verse Takeaways

1

Corruption Starts at the Top

Multiple commentators, including Charles Spurgeon and John Calvin, explain that this verse highlights a leadership principle. When corrupt or 'vile' individuals are exalted to positions of power and influence, it creates an environment where wickedness flourishes. Sin becomes more common because evil people in high places give license to others to 'walk on every side' in their wrongdoing.

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Commentaries

7

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Psalms 12:8

18th Century

Theologian

The wicked walk on every side – Everywhere. They have full license, or seem to be wholly unrestrained.

When the viles…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Psalms 12:8

19th Century

Bishop

The wicked. —Gesenius translates this verse, “The wicked walk on every side like the rising of a tempest upon the sons of men.” Th…

Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Psalm 12:6–8

19th Century

Preacher

The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. You shall keep them, O LORD, you shall prese…

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John Calvin

John Calvin

On Psalms 12:8

16th Century

Theologian

The ungodly walk about on every side. The Hebrew word סביב, sabib, which we have translated on every side, signifies

John Gill

John Gill

On Psalms 12:8

17th Century

Pastor

The wicked walk on every side Of the poor and needy, of the righteous ones, to watch them, lay snares for them, and hurt …

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Psalms 12:1–8

17th Century

Minister

This psalm furnishes good thoughts for bad times; one may comfort oneself with such meditations and prayers. Let us see what makes the times bad, a…

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