Old Testament
Psalms 78:66
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And he struck his enemies in the hinder parts; he put them to a perpetual reproach.
Compare translations
And he smote his enemies in the hinder parts: he put them to a perpetual reproach.
What Psalms 78:66 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist describes how God intervened against His enemies, striking them in a vulnerable place, which symbolizes a decisive defeat. The phrase 'hinder parts' suggests a surprise attack, emphasizing God's power and ability to protect His people. The result of this action is that the enemies are left in a state of disgrace or shame, referred to as 'perpetual reproach.' This reflects God's justice and the consequences faced by those who oppose Him. The verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His role as a defender of His people, illustrating that He will not allow evil to prevail without consequence. It highlights the theme of divine retribution and the assurance that God will act on behalf of those who trust in Him, ultimately leading to their vindication and the humiliation of their adversaries.
How to apply Psalms 78:66 to your life
This verse encourages believers to trust in God's power to defend them against adversaries. It reminds us that while we may face opposition, God is aware of our struggles and will act on our behalf. We can find comfort in knowing that justice will prevail and that God will ultimately protect His people from harm.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 78:66
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 78:66
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 78:66 mean?
Psalms 78:66 describes how God decisively defeats His enemies, striking them in a vulnerable area, which symbolizes a complete victory. It emphasizes God's power to protect His people and the shame that comes to those who oppose Him.
What is the meaning of 'hinder parts' in Psalms 78:66?
The phrase 'hinder parts' refers to a vulnerable spot, suggesting a surprise attack. It illustrates the idea of God defeating His enemies in a way that leaves them exposed and ashamed.
How does Psalms 78:66 relate to God's protection?
Psalms 78:66 illustrates God's role as a defender of His people, showing that He actively intervenes to protect them from harm and defeat their adversaries.
What themes are present in Psalms 78:66?
Key themes in Psalms 78:66 include divine intervention, justice, the defeat of enemies, God's protection, and the consequences faced by those who oppose Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.