Old Testament
Psalms 79:12
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 asking God to repay their enemies for the shame and insults they have directed towards Him and His people.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
And render to our neighbors sevenfold into their bosom their reproach, with which they have reproached you, O Lord.
And render unto our neighbours sevenfold into their bosom their reproach, wherewith they have reproached thee, O Lord.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is asking God to repay their enemies for the shame and insults they have directed towards Him and His people. The phrase 'sevenfold' suggests a complete and thorough retribution, indicating that the psalmist desires not just a simple response but a significant one that reflects the severity of the reproach. This reflects a deep sense of justice and the belief that God will ultimately vindicate His people. The psalmist is appealing to God's sense of justice, asking Him to act decisively against those who have mocked and scorned His name. This verse highlights the relationship between God and His people, emphasizing that when they are wronged, it is also a reproach against God Himself. It serves as a reminder that God is aware of injustices and will respond in His own time and way.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 79:12 to your life
When facing insults or injustices, we can trust that God sees our struggles and will address them in His timing. Instead of seeking revenge ourselves, we should turn to God in prayer, asking for His justice and support. This encourages us to maintain our faith and integrity in difficult situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 79:12 mean?
Psalms 79:12 expresses a plea for God to repay those who have insulted Him and His people. The psalmist asks for a significant response, symbolized by 'sevenfold,' indicating a desire for complete justice against their reproach.
What is the meaning of 'sevenfold' in Psalms 79:12?
In Psalms 79:12, 'sevenfold' signifies a thorough and complete retribution. It emphasizes the psalmist's wish for a response that matches the severity of the insults directed at God and His people.
How does Psalms 79:12 relate to God's justice?
Psalms 79:12 illustrates the psalmist's appeal to God's sense of justice, asking Him to act decisively against those who have reproached Him. It reflects the belief that God is aware of wrongs and will respond appropriately.
What can we learn from Psalms 79:12?
From Psalms 79:12, we learn to trust in God's timing for justice when facing insults or injustices. It encourages us to seek God's support through prayer rather than seeking revenge ourselves.
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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