Psalms 69:20

KJV

Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked [for some] to take pity, but [there was] none; and for comforters, but I found none.

KJV (with Strong's)

Reproach {H2781} hath broken {H7665}{H8804)} my heart {H3820}; and I am full of heaviness {H5136}{H8799)}: and I looked {H6960}{H8762)} for some to take pity {H5110}{H8800)}, but there was none; and for comforters {H5162}{H8764)}, but I found {H4672}{H8804)} none.

Complete Jewish Bible

Insults have broken my heart to the point that I could die. I hoped that someone would show compassion, but nobody did; and that there would be comforters, but I found none.

Berean Standard Bible

Insults have broken my heart, and I am in despair. I looked for sympathy, but there was none, for comforters, but I found no one.

American Standard Version

Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: And I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; And for comforters, but I found none.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 69:20 powerfully articulates the profound anguish of an innocent sufferer, likely David, who is overwhelmed by public shame and deep emotional pain. The verse vividly portrays a heart shattered by "reproach" and a spirit burdened by "heaviness," culminating in a desperate yet fruitless search for empathy and comfort from others. It highlights the devastating isolation experienced when human solace is utterly absent, underscoring the depth of despair that can accompany relentless persecution and social abandonment, ultimately pointing to the psalmist's sole reliance on divine intervention.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 69 is a deeply personal and intense lament psalm, often categorized among the "imprecatory psalms" due to its fervent pleas for divine judgment against enemies. The psalmist, traditionally identified as David, expresses profound suffering, feeling as though he is drowning in overwhelming waters (e.g., [Psalms 69:1-3](/psalms/69-1-3 "Psalms 69:1-3 - Drowning in Deep Waters")). He is hated without cause, slandered, and ostracized even by his own family and closest associates (e.g., [Psalms 69:4](/psalms/69-4 "Psalms 69:4 - Hated Without Cause") and [Psalms 69:8](/psalms/69-8 "Psalms 69:8 - Alienated from Family")). Verse 20, "Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked [for some] to take pity, but [there was] none; and for comforters, but I found none," marks a pivotal moment where the external persecution transitions into a vivid description of internal, emotional devastation and utter isolation. It follows a series of complaints about his enemies' actions and precedes a renewed, desperate plea for God's intervention and judgment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While traditionally attributed to David, the specific historical circumstances are debated, but the themes resonate with periods of intense persecution, exile, or profound social ostracism. In ancient Near Eastern societies, public shame and "reproach" (Hebrew: *ḥerpa*) were profoundly damaging, often more so than physical injury. One's honor and reputation were intrinsically linked to social standing and identity, and public disgrace could lead to complete social ruin. To be "reproached" meant to be scorned, mocked, and humiliated, often publicly, stripping away one's dignity and social currency. The expectation of "pity" and "comforters" reflects the communal nature of ancient life, where support from family, friends, and community was a vital social safety net. The absence of such support, as described in the verse, signifies a complete breakdown of social bonds and an experience of profound abandonment, leaving the sufferer utterly exposed and vulnerable to their enemies.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes prevalent in [Psalms 69](/psalms/69 "Psalms 69 - A Cry for Deliverance") and the broader Psalter. Firstly, it highlights the **suffering of the righteous**, portraying an innocent individual enduring unjust persecution and profound emotional distress, challenging simplistic notions of immediate divine vindication. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **isolation and abandonment**, as the psalmist's desperate search for human empathy yields nothing, emphasizing the crushing weight of loneliness in affliction. This lack of human solace often serves to intensify the psalmist's reliance on God alone. Thirdly, it speaks to the **depth of human emotional pain**, vividly depicting a "broken heart" and "heaviness" as the direct result of external "reproach," showcasing the severe psychological toll of public humiliation and relentless opposition. This profound emotional vulnerability often serves as a prelude to a deeper, more desperate reliance on God, as human avenues for comfort fail, a common trajectory in the laments found throughout the [Book of Psalms](/psalms "The Book of Psalms - Songs and Prayers of Israel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Reproach (Hebrew, _cherpâh'_):** From the root meaning "to strip bare" or "to expose," this word signifies contumely, disgrace, or shame. It is not merely criticism but a deeply wounding public dishonor that attacks one's reputation, standing, and very sense of worth. In the context of ancient Israel, where honor and shame were paramount, *cherpâh* could be devastating, leading to social ostracism and a profound sense of worthlessness. It implies a deliberate act of shaming by others, often accompanied by verbal abuse and mockery.
* **Broken (Hebrew, _shâbar'_):** This primitive root literally means "to burst," "to shatter," or "to crush." When applied to the "heart" (*lêb*), it denotes a profound emotional and psychological collapse, a feeling of being utterly devastated and unable to bear the weight of the suffering. It describes not just sadness but a complete fracturing of one's inner being, implying a state of utter desolation where one's spirit feels irreparably damaged.
* **Heaviness (Hebrew, _nûwsh'_):** This term derives from a root meaning "to be sick" or "to be distressed." It conveys a sense of being grievously wounded, desperately ill, or in an incurable state of affliction. It points to a debilitating and overwhelming sorrow, a deep-seated anguish that permeates one's entire being, suggesting a condition beyond ordinary sadness, bordering on despair or a fatal affliction of the soul that leaves one utterly incapacitated.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Reproach hath broken my heart;":** This opening clause immediately establishes the devastating cause and effect of the psalmist's suffering. The external "reproach"—public scorn, humiliation, and slander—is personified as an active, destructive agent that has inflicted a deep, internal wound, literally "breaking" or shattering his heart. This signifies not merely emotional pain but a profound sense of spiritual and psychological devastation, a complete collapse of inner strength and well-being due to the relentless attacks on his character and honor.
* **"and I am full of heaviness:":** This phrase further elaborates on the internal state resulting from the broken heart, describing its pervasive nature. "Heaviness" conveys a debilitating and overwhelming sense of sorrow, despair, or even a grievous, incurable affliction of the soul. It suggests a profound burden that weighs down the psalmist, leaving him incapacitated by grief and anguish. This is not a fleeting sadness but a deep, enduring state of mental and emotional distress that permeates his entire being.
* **"and I looked [for some] to take pity, but [there was] none;":** Here, the psalmist expresses a desperate yearning for human empathy and compassion in his dire state. In his utter brokenness and heaviness, he actively sought out individuals who might show him kindness, understanding, or even a modicum of sympathy. The stark declaration "but [there was] none" emphasizes the tragic reality of his complete isolation, highlighting the crushing absence of even basic human sympathy in his time of profound need.
* **"and for comforters, but I found none.":** This final clause reiterates and intensifies the theme of abandonment, moving beyond mere pity to a longing for active solace. Beyond simple empathy, the psalmist longed for "comforters"—those who would console, bring relief, or offer genuine solace in his profound distress. The repeated "but I found none" underscores the utter desolation of his situation. It signifies a complete lack of human support, leaving him entirely alone to bear the crushing weight of his suffering, amplifying the sense of betrayal and abandonment.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 69:20 employs several powerful literary devices to convey the depth of the psalmist's suffering and isolation. **Personification** is strikingly evident in "Reproach hath broken my heart," where the abstract concept of reproach is endowed with the active capacity to inflict physical damage, vividly illustrating its destructive power and the psalmist's vulnerability. The phrase "broken my heart" serves as a profound **metaphor** for emotional and psychological devastation, representing not a literal physical fracture but a complete shattering of spirit, hope, and inner peace. The use of **parallelism** in "I looked [for some] to take pity, but [there was] none; and for comforters, but I found none" emphasizes the psalmist's desperate search and the tragic futility of his efforts. This structural repetition not only reinforces the theme of utter abandonment but also builds a sense of overwhelming despair, highlighting the complete and devastating absence of human solace. The entire verse functions as a powerful **lament**, giving voice to an individual's profound grief, isolation, and unfulfilled longing in the face of relentless opposition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 69:20 profoundly articulates the experience of deep suffering, isolation, and unrequited longing for human empathy, a theme that resonates deeply throughout biblical narratives. The psalmist's cry of a "broken heart" due to "reproach" and the utter absence of "pity" or "comforters" speaks to the universal human need for connection and support, especially in times of profound distress. Theologically, this verse highlights the reality that even the righteous can experience extreme emotional pain and abandonment, challenging simplistic notions of prosperity theology and demonstrating that faithfulness does not exempt one from suffering. It sets the stage for understanding that when human comfort fails, the ultimate, unfailing source of solace must be found in God alone, who hears the cries of the afflicted and is truly the "God of all comfort."

* [Psalms 34:18](/psalms/34-18 "Psalms 34:18 - The Lord is Near to the Brokenhearted")
* [Job 16:20](/job/16-20 "Job 16:20 - My Friends Scorn Me")
* [2 Corinthians 1:3-4](/2_corinthians/1-3-4 "2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - God of All Comfort")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 69:20 offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the depths of human emotional pain and the crushing weight of isolation. It validates the experience of a "broken heart" due to external pressures like reproach and the internal burden of "heaviness." In a world that often pressures individuals to suppress vulnerability and maintain a facade of strength, this verse grants profound permission to acknowledge and express profound sorrow and the desperate need for human connection. It serves as a poignant reminder that even the most righteous and devoted individuals can face moments when all human avenues for comfort seem to fail. For us, this should foster a deep empathy for those suffering silently around us, prompting us to be the "pity" and "comforters" that others desperately seek. When we encounter those whose hearts are broken by life's reproaches, our call is to extend genuine compassion, a listening ear, and practical support, embodying the love of Christ. Ultimately, while human comfort is vital and commanded, this verse also implicitly points to a higher truth: when all earthly sources of solace prove insufficient, our ultimate hope and comfort must rest in God, who truly understands our deepest anguish and promises never to leave or forsake us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When have you felt "reproach hath broken my heart" or been "full of heaviness" due to external pressures or the absence of support?**
* **How does the psalmist's desperate search for "pity" and "comforters" challenge you to be more attentive and present for the needs of those around you?**
* **In moments when human comfort is absent or insufficient, how do you intentionally turn to God as your ultimate source of solace and strength?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to offer genuine empathy, active listening, and tangible comfort to someone who might be experiencing profound isolation or a "broken heart"?**

### FAQ
**What does "Reproach hath broken my heart" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: "Reproach hath broken my heart" signifies a profound and devastating emotional and psychological collapse caused by public shame, scorn, and humiliation. The Hebrew word for "reproach" (*cherpâh*) implies a deeply wounding and often public dishonor that attacks one's reputation and sense of worth. When this external assault is said to have "broken" (*shâbar*) the "heart" (*lêb*), it means the psalmist's inner being, his spirit, will, and emotional core, has been shattered and crushed beyond ordinary sadness. It's a vivid expression of feeling utterly devastated and incapacitated by the relentless weight of public disgrace and criticism, leading to a state of deep despair and internal agony that affects one's entire being.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 69:20 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and experience of Jesus Christ, the Suffering Servant. The psalmist's cry of a heart broken by reproach and the utter absence of comforters perfectly foreshadows the unparalleled suffering of the Messiah. Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, endured the ultimate "reproach" for humanity's sin, being mocked, scorned, and publicly humiliated by both religious and political authorities (e.g., [Matthew 27:27-31](/matthew/27-27-31 "Matthew 27:27-31 - The Soldiers Mock Jesus")). His heart was indeed "broken," not only by the crushing weight of the world's sin but also by the profound isolation of Gethsemane, where His closest disciples could not stay awake and pray with Him (e.g., [Matthew 26:36-46](/matthew/26-36-46 "Matthew 26:36-46 - Jesus Prays in Gethsemane")), and by the ultimate abandonment on the cross, when He cried out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (e.g., [Matthew 27:46](/matthew/27-46 "Matthew 27:46 - Jesus' Cry of Dereliction")). Just as the psalmist found "none" to pity or comfort him, Jesus, in His deepest agony, was surrounded by enemies and abandoned by friends, fulfilling the prophetic longing for a comforter that was tragically unmet by human hands (e.g., [John 19:28-30](/john/19-28-30 "John 19:28-30 - Jesus' Thirst and Death")). His suffering ensures that in our own moments of brokenness and isolation, we have a High Priest who has fully experienced and understands our pain, offering ultimate comfort, empathy, and an unfailing source of hope (e.g., [Hebrews 4:15-16](/hebrews/4-15-16 "Hebrews 4:15-16 - Our Sympathetic High Priest")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 63:5

And I looked, and [there was] none to help; and I wondered that [there was] none to uphold: therefore mine own arm brought salvation unto me; and my fury, it upheld me.

Psalms 142:4

¶ I looked on [my] right hand, and beheld, but [there was] no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul.

Mark 14:50

And they all forsook him, and fled.

Job 16:2

I have heard many such things: miserable comforters [are] ye all.

Matthew 26:56

But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.

2 Timothy 4:16

¶ At my first answer no man stood with me, but all [men] forsook me: [I pray God] that it may not be laid to their charge.

2 Timothy 4:17

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.