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Book of Psalms - Chapter 11 - Verse 3

11:3
If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?

Meaning

When the verse, 'If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?', is examined in context, it reveals a message about the importance of moral and ethical foundations in society. The 'foundations' can be interpreted as the fundamental principles and values that hold up a community or nation. If these foundations are compromised or destroyed, it creates a dilemma for the righteous individuals who are committed to living by these values. The verse suggests that when the very core of society is eroded, those who strive to do good may feel powerless or overwhelmed. It serves as a reminder of the significance of upholding principles such as justice, integrity, and compassion in order to maintain a cohesive and just society. In the face of moral decay or societal breakdown, the righteous are called to hold steadfast to their beliefs and continue to act in accordance with their convictions, even when faced with adversity.

Theological Overview

When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" it is important to understand that the term "foundations" can be seen as representing the fundamental principles or values upon which something is built. In this context, the verse is often interpreted as highlighting the distress and sense of helplessness that the righteous may feel when the foundational principles of society (such as justice, righteousness, or morality) are disregarded or undermined. The righteous individual may feel powerless or overwhelmed in such circumstances, as their beliefs and values may no longer align with those of the society around them. However, the verse can also be seen as a call to action for the righteous to stand firm in their beliefs, to take a stand for what is right, and to seek to uphold the foundational values that they hold dear, even in the face of adversity or opposition. It serves as a reminder that even in challenging times, the righteous have a role to play in upholding truth and righteousness.

American Standard Version

If the foundations be destroyed, What can the righteous do?
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