Psalms 69:12

Commentary on Psalms 69:12 (KJV)

Psalms 69:12: "They that sit in the gate speak against me; and I [was] the song of the drunkards."

Context and Background

Psalm 69 is a profound lament, often attributed to David, expressing deep distress, suffering, and rejection from his enemies. It is one of the most frequently quoted psalms in the New Testament, recognized for its strong messianic prophecies concerning the suffering of Christ. Verse 12 vividly illustrates the psalmist's extreme humiliation and contempt from all segments of society.

• "They that sit in the gate": In ancient Near Eastern cities, the "gate" was the hub of public life. It was where legal proceedings took place, business was conducted, and elders, judges, and respected citizens gathered. To be spoken against in the gate signified public disgrace, official condemnation, or widespread slander from those in positions of influence or authority. It implies a loss of reputation and public standing.
• "I [was] the song of the drunkards": This phrase highlights the psalmist's degradation by the lowest elements of society. Drunkards, often associated with revelry, crude behavior, and mockery, would compose and sing derisive songs about him. This shows contempt not just from the respectable but also from the disreputable, indicating a complete and pervasive scorn.

Key Themes and Messages

• Widespread Contempt and Humiliation: The verse powerfully conveys the psalmist's experience of being an object of scorn from both the highest and lowest echelons of society. He faced public slander from the powerful and mocking songs from the marginalized.
• Unjust Suffering and Slander: The psalmist's lament throughout Psalm 69 suggests that this suffering was undeserved, highlighting themes of injustice and false accusation.
• Messianic Foreshadowing: This psalm is highly prophetic of Jesus Christ's suffering, rejection, and passion. Just as the psalmist endured public humiliation and scorn, Jesus was mocked by the religious leaders (those "in the gate") and by the common people, even being given gall and vinegar to drink (as prophesied in Psalm 69:21) and becoming an object of ridicule during His crucifixion. His experience of bearing reproach perfectly aligns with this verse.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "gate" is sha'ar (שער), which indeed refers to the city gate, a prominent place for social and legal activity. The phrase "speak against me" implies slander, accusation, or gossip. Being the "song" (מנגינתם - mangingatham) of the drunkards emphasizes being the subject of their derisive tunes and jokes, a profound insult.

Practical Application

For believers, Psalms 69:12 offers comfort and understanding in times of unjust criticism, public scorn, or mockery. It reminds us:

• Solidarity with Christ: Our Lord Jesus Christ endured far greater public humiliation and rejection, fulfilling these very prophecies. When we face ridicule for our faith, we are in good company (1 Peter 4:16).
• Resilience in Adversity: The psalmist, despite profound suffering, continued to cry out to God. This verse encourages us to place our trust in God even when society, from all levels, turns against us.
• Understanding the Cost of Discipleship: Following Christ may sometimes lead to being misunderstood, slandered, or even mocked by the world. This psalm prepares us for such realities and points us to the ultimate vindication found in God.