Psalm 37:21

21 The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again; But the righteous dealeth graciously, and giveth.

Psalm 37:21 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 37:21

The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again
While the wicked live, they are scandalous; they live by borrowing, which was always reckoned mean; see ( Deuteronomy 28:12 Deuteronomy 28:44 ) ( Proverbs 22:7 ) ; and what is worse, as they borrow, they do not design to repay; they take no care nor thought about that, but live upon what they borrow: for this either expresses their incapacity that they cannot pay; or the evil disposition of their mind, which rather seems to be the sense, that they will not pay;

but the righteous showeth mercy, and giveth;
which not only argues capacity and ability, but a kind, merciful, and tender spirit to persons in distress, and is expressive of a generous action.

Psalm 37:21 In-Context

19 They shall not be put to shame in the time of evil; And in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.

20 But the wicked shall perish, And the enemies of Jehovah shall be as the fat of lambs: They shall consume; In smoke shall they consume away.

21 The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again; But the righteous dealeth graciously, and giveth.

22 For such as are blessed of him shall inherit the land; And they that are cursed of him shall be cut off.

23 A man's goings are established of Jehovah; And he delighteth in his way.