For they have no pangs until death; their bodies are fat and sleek. They are not in trouble as others are; they are not stricken like the rest of mankind. Therefore pride is their necklace; violence covers them as a garment. Their eyes swell out through fatness; their hearts overflow with follies. They scoff and speak with malice; loftily they threaten oppression. They set their mouths against the heavens, and their tongue struts through the earth. Therefore his people turn back to them, and find no fault in them. And they say, “How can God know? Is there knowledge in the Most High?” Behold, these are the wicked; always at ease, they increase in riches.” Psalm 73:4-12
Asaph struggles with the fact that the wicked prosper. He knows God is good to the pure of heart but he is not experiencing that goodness.
While he is tempted to covet what the wicked have, he faces a far worse danger. Does it really matter that he live for God? Why not copy the wicked and pursue material advantages?
In verses 4-12 Asap takes his evidence to God. He is an eyewitness to the wicked prospering. So Asaph tells the Lord the wicked are enjoying advantages that are not right. Is this fair?
No pangs until death The word pangs is pain or fetters. Physical bonds such as fetters were commonly used to bind prisoners or captives. These bonds were made of metal or strong materials which symbolized control and subjugation. Asaph says the wicked do not have to answer to anyone or be under the control of any master. Until their die they enjoy freedom to do as they please in this life. This is a common struggle for believers. We try to live as God says, to abide by His rules yet the wicked do as they please and seemingly get away with their indiscretions. Even in death they don’t seem to suffer at all. Is this fair?
Bodies are fat and sleek This can be translated “their strength is firm”. In ancient times strength and might were highly valued. They were often associated with leadership and even divine favor. Asaph says it looks like God favors those who do not obey him. The word firm means well nourished and in good condition. There have no weaknesses. Why?
Not in trouble Asaph continues. He uses the Hebrew word “amal“
which conveys laborious work or toil. It is usually associated with hardship or sorrow. But it goes further than physical toil. It also refers to to emotional or spiritual struggles. The wicked do not seem to have any regrets or grief over their wicked doing. They enjoy the rewards of doing evil. How is this fair?
Not stricken The Hebrew word “naga” primarily means “to touch” or “to reach.” It is used of physical contact, such as touching an object or person, but it goes further. It refers to reaching a certain place where one is untouchable. This word it is also used in relation to plagues or divine judgment. When Asaph views the wicked’s prosperity, as much as he knows and believes God’s word, it looks to him as if the wicked are immune to God’s judgment. This Godly man cannot understand. this be fair! (You know that this is the wrong question, right?)