Old Testament

Psalms 69:27

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Add iniquity to their iniquity, and let them not come into your righteousness.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Add iniquity unto their iniquity: and let them not come into thy righteousness.

What Psalms 69:27 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a desire for justice against those who have wronged him. He asks God to add to their sins, implying that their wrongdoing should not go unpunished. The phrase 'let them not come into your righteousness' suggests a plea for these individuals to be kept away from God's favor and grace. This reflects a deep sense of injustice and a longing for divine retribution. The psalmist feels surrounded by enemies who are not only sinful but also unrepentant, and he seeks God's intervention to ensure that they do not experience the blessings of righteousness. This verse highlights the tension between the psalmist's suffering and the desire for God's justice to prevail, emphasizing the importance of accountability for one's actions in the eyes of God.

How to apply Psalms 69:27 to your life

This verse reminds us of the importance of accountability for our actions. When we face injustice, we can bring our concerns to God, trusting that He sees all and will act justly. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives and ensure we are living righteously, avoiding iniquity ourselves.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the Israelites enslaved in Egypt

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Moses

Walls uncovered by archaeologists on the mound of Tell es-Sultan, with palm trees in the distance.

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Jericho

The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 69:27

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Psalms 69:27

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 69:27 mean in context?

Psalms 69:27 reflects the psalmist's plea for divine justice against those who have wronged him. By asking God to add iniquity to their iniquity, the psalmist seeks retribution for their sins and desires that they remain outside of God's grace and righteousness. This verse highlights the emotional turmoil of feeling wronged and the longing for God to intervene on behalf of the oppressed.

How can I apply Psalms 69:27 to my life?

You can apply Psalms 69:27 by recognizing the importance of accountability in your own life and the lives of others. When facing injustice, bring your concerns to God in prayer, trusting that He sees all and will act justly. This verse also encourages self-reflection, prompting you to examine your own actions and ensure you are living in a way that aligns with God's righteousness.

What is the significance of iniquity in Psalms 69:27?

Iniquity in Psalms 69:27 signifies moral wrongdoing or sinfulness. The psalmist's request for God to add iniquity to the iniquity of his enemies underscores the seriousness of their actions and the desire for them to face consequences. This highlights the biblical theme that sin has repercussions and that justice is an essential aspect of God's character.

Does Psalms 69:27 suggest God punishes people?

Yes, Psalms 69:27 suggests that God holds individuals accountable for their actions. The psalmist's plea for God to add to the iniquity of his enemies indicates a belief in divine retribution. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God is just and will ultimately address wrongdoing, ensuring that those who persist in sin do not receive His favor.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.