Old Testament
Psalms 68:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse emphasizes God's power to defeat His enemies and punish those who continue in their wrongdoing.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of the one who goes on still in his trespasses.
But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes God's power to defeat His enemies and punish those who continue in their wrongdoing. The imagery of wounding the head signifies a decisive victory over evil. The mention of the 'hairy scalp' suggests a person who is proud and unrepentant in their sins. It serves as a warning that those who persist in their transgressions will face God's judgment. The verse reflects the broader theme of divine justice, where God protects His people and holds accountable those who oppose Him. It reassures believers that God is actively involved in the fight against evil and will ultimately prevail, bringing justice to the oppressed and punishment to the wicked.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 68:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the importance of repentance. It reminds us that continuing in wrongdoing can lead to serious consequences. We should strive to turn away from sin and seek God's guidance, knowing that He is just and will protect those who follow Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 68:21 mean?
Psalms 68:21 highlights God's authority to defeat His enemies and punish those who persist in wrongdoing. It uses strong imagery to convey the certainty of divine justice against unrepentant sinners.
What is the significance of 'hairy scalp' in Psalms 68:21?
The 'hairy scalp' in Psalms 68:21 symbolizes pride and unrepentance in sin. It suggests that those who continue in their transgressions will face God's judgment and consequences.
How does Psalms 68:21 relate to divine justice?
Psalms 68:21 reflects the theme of divine justice by assuring that God will hold accountable those who act against Him. It emphasizes that God actively fights against evil and punishes wrongdoing.
What lesson can we learn from Psalms 68:21?
From Psalms 68:21, we learn the importance of repentance and turning away from sin. It reminds us that continuing in wrongdoing can lead to serious consequences, urging us to seek God's guidance.

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.
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