Old Testament

Psalms 109:19

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a desire for the consequences of evil actions to cling to the wrongdoer like a garment or a belt.

Author: David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written: Around 1000-500 BC
Genre: Poetry and worship
Original Audience: Worshipers of Israel

CBTClear Bible Translation

Let it be to him as the garment which covers him, and for a belt with which he is girded continually.

KJVKing James Version

Let it be unto him as the garment which covereth him, and for a girdle wherewith he is girded continually.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a desire for the consequences of evil actions to cling to the wrongdoer like a garment or a belt. The imagery suggests that just as clothing is a constant part of a person's appearance, so too should the repercussions of their wrongdoing be ever-present in their life. This reflects a deep sense of justice, where the psalmist wishes that the wrongdoer's guilt and shame become an inseparable part of their identity. The metaphor of clothing emphasizes how these consequences should envelop the individual, serving as a reminder of their actions. The psalmist is invoking a sense of divine justice, hoping that the wrongdoer's deceit and malice will not only be recognized but will also have lasting effects on their life, much like how one cannot easily remove their clothes. This verse highlights the themes of justice, accountability, and the moral order of the universe, where actions have consequences that are inescapable.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 109:19 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their potential consequences. It serves as a reminder to live righteously, as our choices shape our identity and future. We should strive to act with integrity, knowing that our deeds will ultimately define us.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 109:19 mean?

Psalms 109:19 expresses a desire for the consequences of a wrongdoer's actions to cling to them like clothing. The verse uses the imagery of a garment and a belt to illustrate how guilt and shame should be a constant reminder of their wrongdoing.

What is the meaning of 'garment' in Psalms 109:19?

In Psalms 109:19, 'garment' symbolizes the lasting effects of one's actions. It suggests that the consequences of evil deeds should envelop the wrongdoer, making them a permanent part of their identity.

How does Psalms 109:19 relate to justice?

Psalms 109:19 relates to justice by highlighting the desire for wrongdoers to face the consequences of their actions. It reflects a belief that evil deeds should not go unpunished and that accountability is essential.

What themes are present in Psalms 109:19?

The themes present in Psalms 109:19 include justice, consequences, accountability, and divine retribution. The verse underscores the idea that actions have lasting effects that should be recognized and felt by the wrongdoer.

Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

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