Tehillim 37:21

21 The rasha borroweth, and repayeth not; but the tzaddik showeth chonen (generosity), and giveth.

Tehillim 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.

Tehillim 37:21 In-Context

19 They shall not be put to shame in time of evil; and in the days of famine yisba’u (they shall be satisfied, enjoy plenty).

20 But the resha’im shall perish, and the oyvei Hashem (enemies of Hashem) shall be like the glory of the meadows; they shall disappear like ashan (smoke), they shall vanish.

21 The rasha borroweth, and repayeth not; but the tzaddik showeth chonen (generosity), and giveth.

22 For such as be blessed of Him shall inherit Eretz; and they that be cursed of Him shall be cut off.

23 The steps of a gever (man) konanu (are ordered, made firm) by Hashem and He delighteth in his derech.