Old Testament
Psalms 109:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Let his posterity be cut off, and in the following generation let their name be blotted out.
Compare translations
Let his posterity be cut off; and in the generation following let their name be blotted out.
What Psalms 109:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a desire for the complete removal of a person's descendants and legacy. This reflects a deep sense of anger and a call for justice against those who have wronged him. The phrase 'let his posterity be cut off' indicates a wish for the family line to end, while 'let their name be blotted out' suggests a desire for their memory to be erased from history. This kind of language is often found in the context of lament or imprecation, where the speaker seeks divine intervention against perceived injustice. It highlights the seriousness of the psalmist's grievances and the weight of consequences for wrongdoing. Such expressions can be challenging to understand in a modern context, as they reflect a cultural and historical perspective on justice and retribution that may differ from contemporary views on forgiveness and mercy.
How to apply Psalms 109:13 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of our actions and their impact on future generations. It encourages us to consider how our behavior can affect not only our lives but also the lives of those who come after us. Seeking justice is important, but we should also strive for forgiveness and reconciliation.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Keep studying Psalms 109:13
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 109:13 mean?
Psalms 109:13 expresses a desire for the complete removal of a person's descendants and legacy, reflecting deep anger and a call for justice against wrongdoers.
What is the meaning of 'posterity' in Psalms 109:13?
In this verse, 'posterity' refers to a person's descendants or future generations, indicating a wish for their family line to end.
What is the significance of 'blotted out' in Psalms 109:13?
The phrase 'blotted out' signifies a desire for a person's memory and name to be erased from history, emphasizing the psalmist's wish for justice.
What themes are present in Psalms 109:13?
Key themes in Psalms 109:13 include justice, retribution, legacy, anger, and the need for divine intervention against perceived wrongdoing.
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