Psalms 36:6
Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD, thou preservest man and beast.
Psalms 36:6
Verse 6 presents a majestic metaphor: “Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD, thou preservest man and beast.” The imagery of mountains and the deep conveys the breadth, permanence, and might of God’s justice. Righteousness as mountains suggests stability and immovability; judgments as a great deep imply depth and reach—no corner of creation escapes God’s governance. The phrase “preservest man and beast” extends mercy across all living beings, highlighting a divine concern for life. In a world where oppression, chaos, and exploitation can feel unchecked, the verse points to God’s order and sovereignty. It reassures that God’s standards are not fluid; they stand firm as mountains, and His judgments go deep, revealing a thorough, discerning sovereignty.
Theologically, this verse affirms God’s character as righteous and just, with judgments that reveal truth with depth and precision. It balances the majesty of God’s justice with compassion for creatures under His care. It also frames human experience—whether we feel safe or endangered—in light of God’s steadfast governance. The verse invites trust that God’s righteousness is not a capricious rule but a solid, reliable order that governs the cosmos and human life alike. It foreshadows biblical themes of creation order, moral law, and divine mercy.
Practically, when you face injustice or fear, recall the image of steadfast mountains and deep judgments. Trust that God’s standards endure and that He cares for both people and animals. Let this shape your response to conflict: pursue justice fairly, with mercy; stand firm in ethical commitments; avoid quick, surface-level judgments. In daily life, you can seek to align your decisions with God’s righteousness, even when it costs you convenience or comfort. For those in leadership or parenting, model steady, principled choices that reflect God’s mountain-like steadfastness. Trust that God’s deeper judgments bring truth to light and healing to broken places.
Cross-References: Psalm 19:7-9; Isaiah 40:12-14; Romans 1:18; Daniel 4:37; Psalm 111:7-8