Old Testament
Psalms 70:2
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 plea for protection against those who wish him harm.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Let those who seek after my soul be ashamed and confounded. Let those who desire my hurt be turned back and put to confusion.
Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a plea for protection against those who wish him harm. He calls for shame and confusion to fall upon his enemies, those who seek to harm him or undermine his well-being. The repetition of the desire for them to be turned back emphasizes the urgency of his request for divine intervention. The psalmist is confident that God will respond to his cry for help, ensuring that those who plot against him will not succeed. This reflects a deep trust in God's justice and a desire for vindication. The imagery of shame and confusion suggests that the psalmist believes that God will expose the wrong intentions of his adversaries, leading to their downfall. Overall, this verse highlights the themes of seeking divine help in times of distress and the hope for justice against those who do wrong.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 70:2 to your life
When facing opposition or harm from others, we can turn to God in prayer, asking for His protection and justice. This verse encourages us to trust that God sees our struggles and will act on our behalf, bringing clarity and resolution to our situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 70:2 mean in simple terms?
Psalms 70:2 is a plea from the psalmist for protection against those who wish him harm. He asks God to bring shame and confusion upon his enemies, emphasizing his desire for them to be turned away from their harmful intentions. This verse reflects a deep trust in God's ability to deliver justice and protect the vulnerable.
How can I apply Psalms 70:2 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 70:2 by turning to God in prayer when you feel threatened or harmed by others. This verse encourages you to seek divine intervention and trust that God will protect you and bring justice. It reminds you to maintain faith in God's ability to handle your struggles and to seek clarity in difficult situations.
What themes are present in Psalms 70:2?
Psalms 70:2 encompasses several key themes, including divine protection, the presence of enemies, the concepts of shame and confusion for wrongdoers, and the pursuit of justice. It highlights the importance of seeking help from God during distress and the hope for vindication against those who do wrong.
Why does the psalmist ask for shame and confusion for his enemies?
The psalmist asks for shame and confusion for his enemies to express his desire for justice and to highlight the wrong intentions of those who seek to harm him. By calling for these consequences, he is seeking divine intervention that will expose their plots and ensure that they do not succeed in their harmful desires.

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.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.