Old Testament
Psalms 79:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For they have devoured Jacob and laid waste his dwelling place.
Compare translations
For they have devoured Jacob, and laid waste his dwelling place.
What Psalms 79:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse expresses deep sorrow over the destruction of Israel, referred to as Jacob. The term 'devoured' suggests that enemies have completely overwhelmed and consumed the people, leading to devastation. The phrase 'laid waste his dwelling place' indicates that not only have the people suffered, but their homes and places of worship have also been destroyed. This reflects a time of great loss and mourning for the nation, highlighting the consequences of sin and disobedience to God. The psalmist is lamenting the state of the land and the people, calling attention to the need for restoration and divine intervention. The imagery used conveys a sense of urgency and despair, as the community grapples with the aftermath of their enemies' actions. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of seeking God's protection and guidance in times of trouble.
How to apply Psalms 79:7 to your life
In times of personal or communal crisis, we can turn to God in prayer, seeking His help and guidance. This verse reminds us to acknowledge our struggles and the impact of sin, while also trusting in God's ability to restore and heal our lives and communities.
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 Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, 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.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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 79:7
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 79:7
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 79:7 mean?
Psalms 79:7 expresses sorrow over the destruction of Israel, symbolized by Jacob. It highlights how enemies have overwhelmed the people and devastated their homes, reflecting a time of mourning and the need for divine restoration.
What is the significance of 'devoured' in Psalms 79:7?
The term 'devoured' in Psalms 79:7 signifies complete destruction and overwhelming force by enemies against Israel. It conveys the severity of the situation, indicating that the people have been consumed by their adversaries.
What does 'laid waste his dwelling place' refer to in Psalms 79:7?
'Laid waste his dwelling place' refers to the destruction of homes and places of worship in Israel. This phrase emphasizes the physical and spiritual devastation experienced by the community.
What themes are present in Psalms 79:7?
Psalms 79:7 encompasses themes of destruction, lamentation, divine justice, restoration, and community suffering. It reflects the consequences of sin and the urgent need for God's intervention.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.