109:19

Psalms 109:20

109:21

[Let] this [be] the reward of mine adversaries from the LORD, and of them that speak evil against my soul.

Let this be the reward {H6468} of mine adversaries {H7853} from the LORD {H3068}, and of them that speak {H1696} evil {H7451} against my soul {H5315}.

This is what my adversaries want ADONAI to do, those who speak evil against me.

May this be the LORD’s reward to my accusers, to those who speak evil against me.

This is the reward of mine adversaries from Jehovah, And of them that speak evil against my soul.

Context of Psalms 109:20

Psalm 109 is one of the Bible's most intense "imprecatory psalms," where the psalmist, traditionally identified as David, expresses deep anguish and calls upon God to deliver justice against his relentless and cruel adversaries. These enemies have slandered him, returned evil for good, and falsely accused him, even seeking his death. The verses preceding Psalm 109:20 outline a series of severe curses and judgments the psalmist wishes upon his persecutors, reflecting the Old Testament understanding of divine retribution and the consequences of unrighteousness. This psalm is a desperate cry for God's intervention and vindication in the face of profound injustice and betrayal.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Justice and Retribution: The core theme of Psalms 109:20 is the psalmist's plea for God to exact justice. The "reward" (Hebrew: גְּמוּל, g'mul) here is not a blessing but a deserved recompense or punishment for their wicked deeds and malicious words. It underscores the belief that God is a righteous judge who will ultimately deal with evil.
  • Consequences of Malice: The verse highlights the severe consequences awaiting those who "speak evil against my soul" and act as adversaries. It serves as a stark reminder that actions and words have spiritual and divine repercussions.
  • Reliance on God for Vengeance: Rather than taking personal revenge, the psalmist appeals directly to the LORD, entrusting the administration of justice into God's hands. This demonstrates a profound reliance on God's sovereignty and righteousness, a concept echoed in later scriptures about leaving vengeance to God.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "reward" here, g'mul (גְּמוּל), frequently carries the meaning of "recompense" or "retribution." It implies a deserved outcome, whether positive or negative, based on one's actions. In this context, it unequivocally signifies negative consequences for the adversaries. The phrase "speak evil against my soul" vividly portrays the personal and deeply hurtful nature of the attacks, suggesting slander, false accusations, and malicious gossip intended to harm the psalmist's very being or reputation.

Practical Application

For a general audience, Psalms 109:20 offers several important insights:

  1. Trusting God with Injustice: When faced with slander, betrayal, or injustice, this verse encourages believers to bring their grievances directly to God. It reminds us that God sees and hears, and that ultimate justice belongs to Him.
  2. Understanding Old Testament Justice: While the New Testament emphasizes love for enemies and forgiveness (Matthew 5:44), imprecatory psalms like this reveal the raw, honest prayers of individuals under intense persecution in an era where divine retribution was a more prominent theme. They affirm God's character as a just judge who will not let evil go unpunished.
  3. The Seriousness of Malice: The verse serves as a sober warning regarding the gravity of speaking evil against others. It highlights that God takes such actions seriously and that there are indeed consequences for those who engage in malicious behavior.
Note: Commentary is generated by a large language model with a directive for Biblical fidelity. While we find the analysis helpful, always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 94:23

    And he shall bring upon them their own iniquity, and shall cut them off in their own wickedness; [yea], the LORD our God shall cut them off.

  • 1 Kings 2:44

    The king said moreover to Shimei, Thou knowest all the wickedness which thine heart is privy to, that thou didst to David my father: therefore the LORD shall return thy wickedness upon thine own head;

  • 2 Timothy 4:14

    Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:

  • 2 Samuel 17:23

    And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled [his] ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:3

    Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and [that] no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

  • 2 Samuel 18:32

    And the king said unto Cushi, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Cushi answered, The enemies of my lord the king, and all that rise against thee to do [thee] hurt, be as [that] young man [is].

  • Psalms 110:1

    ¶ A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

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