Old Testament
Psalms 69:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Let them be blotted out of the book of the living, and not be written with the righteous.
Compare translations
Let them be blotted out of the book of the living, and not be written with the righteous.
What Psalms 69:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a desire for those who oppose God and His people to be removed from the 'book of the living.' This book symbolizes a record of those who are alive and in good standing with God. The psalmist contrasts the fate of the wicked with that of the righteous, implying that the righteous will be acknowledged and rewarded by God, while the wicked will face judgment and exclusion from His presence. This reflects a deep yearning for justice and divine retribution against those who do evil. The phrase 'not be written with the righteous' emphasizes the separation between the faithful and the unfaithful, highlighting the importance of living a life that aligns with God's will. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of one's actions and the ultimate accountability before God.
How to apply Psalms 69:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and choices. It reminds us to strive for righteousness and to align ourselves with God's will. We should also be mindful of the company we keep and the influences we allow in our lives, ensuring they lead us closer to God rather than away from Him.
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.

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

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 PlansAsk AI about Psalms 69:28
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 69:28
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 69:28 mean?
Psalms 69:28 expresses a wish for those who oppose God to be removed from the 'book of the living,' symbolizing a record of those in good standing with God. It highlights the contrast between the fate of the wicked and the righteous, emphasizing divine justice.
What is the book of the living in Psalms 69:28?
The 'book of the living' in Psalms 69:28 represents a record of those who are alive and in favor with God. Being blotted out from this book signifies exclusion from God's presence and blessings.
What themes are present in Psalms 69:28?
Psalms 69:28 includes themes of divine justice, righteousness, judgment, and the separation of the wicked from the faithful. It reflects the consequences of one's actions in relation to God's will.
How can I apply Psalms 69:28 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 69:28 by reflecting on your choices and striving for righteousness. It encourages you to be mindful of your influences and to seek relationships that draw you closer to God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.