Psalms 80:16

KJV

[It is] burned with fire, [it is] cut down: they perish at the rebuke of thy countenance.

KJV (with Strong's)

It is burned {H8313}{H8803)} with fire {H784}, it is cut down {H3683}{H8803)}: they perish {H6}{H8799)} at the rebuke {H1606} of thy countenance {H6440}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It is burned by fire, it is cut down; they perish at your frown of rebuke.

Berean Standard Bible

Your vine has been cut down and burned; they perish at the rebuke of Your countenance.

American Standard Version

It is burned with fire, it is cut down: They perish at the rebuke of thy countenance.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 80:16 powerfully depicts the devastating consequences of divine judgment upon Israel, metaphorically represented as a once-flourishing vine. The verse portrays this "vine" as being utterly consumed by fire and cut down, signifying a complete destruction and loss of vitality. This calamity is not a random misfortune but is directly attributed to the "rebuke of thy countenance," emphasizing that Israel's suffering and perishing are a direct result of God's active displeasure and withdrawal of favor, highlighting the profound vulnerability of a nation when it falls out of alignment with its divine Protector.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 80 is a poignant communal lament, a heartfelt cry from the nation of Israel to God for restoration and revival. The psalm consistently employs the powerful imagery of Israel as a vine or vineyard, which God Himself brought out of Egypt, carefully planted in the Promised Land, and diligently nurtured. Verses [8-11](/psalms/80-8-11 "Psalm 80:8-11 - God's Cultivation of Israel, His Vine") detail God's past care for this vine, while verses [12-13](/psalms/80-12-13 "Psalm 80:12-13 - The Broken Hedge and Ravaged Vine") lament its current state of desolation, with its protective walls broken down and exposed to wild beasts. Verse 16 specifically articulates the extreme extent of this devastation—burned and cut down—attributing it unequivocally to God's active withdrawal of favor or direct judgment. This verse serves as a climactic expression of the people's distress, underscoring the severity of their plight before the psalm's repeated, desperate plea for God to "restore us" (e.g., [Psalms 80:3](/psalms/80-3 "Psalm 80:3 - Restore Us, O God")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The psalm likely reflects a period of profound national distress for Israel, possibly due to military invasion, internal turmoil, or the Assyrian/Babylonian exiles, which led to significant loss of territory, population, and national identity. In ancient Israel, agriculture, particularly viticulture (grape cultivation), was central to life and economy. The vine was a common and potent symbol of prosperity, fruitfulness, and national identity. God's act of bringing Israel out of Egypt and planting them in Canaan was often described in terms of a vine being transplanted (e.g., [Isaiah 5:1-7](/isaiah/5-1-7 "Isaiah 5:1-7 - The Song of the Vineyard")). Therefore, the imagery of the vine being "burned with fire" and "cut down" would have resonated deeply with an agrarian society, signifying total devastation, a reversal of blessing, and the ultimate sign of divine displeasure. The "rebuke of thy countenance" points to a theological understanding that national calamities were often seen as divine judgment for covenant unfaithfulness, as outlined in texts like [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses of the Covenant").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several major theological and narrative themes within Psalm 80 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment and Displeasure**, making it clear that the destruction of the vine is not random but a direct, active consequence of God's "rebuke." This signifies that Israel's suffering is intrinsically linked to their spiritual condition and God's just response to their sin. Secondly, it highlights the **Vulnerability Without God's Favor**, illustrating how utterly defenseless and desolate Israel becomes when God's protective hand is withdrawn. The nation, once flourishing under divine care, perishes without His blessing and presence, emphasizing their absolute dependence on Him. Lastly, it implicitly reinforces the **Consequences of Disobedience**. While the specific cause of the rebuke isn't detailed in this verse, the broader biblical context consistently links national suffering to a departure from God's covenant and commandments. Thus, [Psalms 80:16](/psalms/80-16 "Psalm 80:16 - The Perishing Vine") serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences that arise from sin and unfaithfulness, prompting a desperate plea for divine restoration.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Burned (Hebrew, _sâraph'_):** (H8313) From a primitive root, this word means to be (causatively, set) on fire; to cause to burn, kindle, or utterly consume. In the context of the vine, it indicates a swift and intense destructive force, leaving nothing but ashes and desolation.
* **Cut down (Hebrew, _kâçach'_):** (H3683) A primitive root meaning to cut off or cut down (up). This action signifies a complete severance from the source of life and growth, implying not just damage but the termination of the vine's existence as a productive entity.
* **Perish (Hebrew, _ʼâbad'_):** (H6) A primitive root, properly meaning to wander away or lose oneself; by implication, to perish (causative, destroy). It conveys a sense of utter ruin, cessation of existence, or loss of vitality and purpose. When the vine perishes, it means its very life and ability to bear fruit are utterly lost.
* **Rebuke (Hebrew, _gᵉʻârâh'_):** (H1606) From the root "ga'ar," meaning to chide, this word denotes a strong, active expression of indignation, condemnation, or even a threatening roar. A divine "rebuke" is not mere disapproval but carries destructive power, signifying God's powerful, decisive intervention against His people due to their sin.
* **Countenance (Hebrew, _pânîym'_):** (H6440) Literally meaning "face" or "presence," this word in a theological context is often associated with God's manifest presence, favor, and blessing. When God's "countenance" is turned in "rebuke," it signifies His active opposition, judgment, and the withdrawal of His life-giving presence and protection, leading to perishing and desolation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[It is] burned with fire":** This clause vividly depicts the initial stage of the vine's destruction. Fire is a common biblical metaphor for divine judgment and purification, signifying a consuming, destructive force. For a vine, burning would mean the rapid and complete annihilation of its branches and leaves, rendering it barren and lifeless. This suggests a swift and intense form of judgment.
* **"[it is] cut down":** Following the burning, this clause indicates a further, decisive act of destruction. To "cut down" a vine implies its removal from the ground, severing its roots from its life source. This signifies not just damage but a complete termination of its growth and existence as a productive entity. Together with "burned with fire," it paints a picture of total desolation and the end of the vine's purpose.
* **"they perish at the rebuke of thy countenance":** This culminating clause reveals the ultimate cause and consequence of the vine's destruction. The "they" refers back to the vine's constituents or the people it represents. Their perishing is not due to natural disaster or enemy action alone, but specifically "at the rebuke of thy countenance." This powerfully attributes the calamity directly to God's active, expressed displeasure and judgment. It underscores that divine judgment is not passive but a potent, destructive force emanating from God's very presence when His people have strayed.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 80:16 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment and desolation. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where Israel is consistently portrayed as a "vine" throughout the psalm, culminating in this verse. This metaphor allows the psalmist to describe the nation's suffering in terms of agricultural ruin, making the abstract concept of national decline tangible and emotionally resonant. The phrase "rebuke of thy countenance" utilizes **Personification**, attributing the human characteristic of a "countenance" (face) and the action of "rebuking" to God, thereby emphasizing the direct, personal, and active nature of divine judgment. Furthermore, the verse employs **Parallelism** in "burned with fire, [it is] cut down," where two distinct but complementary actions are used to describe the same outcome of utter destruction, intensifying the sense of desolation. This pairing also serves as a form of **Hyperbole**, exaggerating the extent of the ruin to emphasize the totality of the judgment. The imagery itself is highly **Sensory**, evoking sights of burning and cutting, and the implied feeling of loss and desolation, drawing the reader into the emotional weight of the lament.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 80:16 stands as a stark reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where blessings were promised for obedience and curses for disobedience. The destruction of the vine symbolizes the breaking of this covenant from Israel's side, leading to God's withdrawal of favor and active judgment. This verse underscores the biblical truth that God is not only a God of love and mercy but also of justice and holiness, who holds His people accountable for their faithfulness. The perishing of the vine at His "rebuke" highlights the profound consequences of sin and the absolute necessity of living in alignment with His will for spiritual vitality and protection. It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment against sin that would later be perfectly executed and absorbed in Christ.

* [Isaiah 5:7](/isaiah/5-7 "Isaiah 5:7 - The Vineyard of the Lord")
* [Jeremiah 2:21](/jeremiah/2-21 "Jeremiah 2:21 - A Degenerate Vine")
* [Psalm 76:6](/psalms/76-6 "Psalm 76:6 - God's Rebuke to Chariots and Horses")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 80:16 serves as a powerful and sobering mirror for believers today, prompting us to examine the state of our own spiritual lives and communities. Just as Israel was God's chosen vine, believers are called to be fruitful branches abiding in Christ. This verse reminds us that spiritual vitality, protection, and flourishing are not automatic but are intimately tied to our ongoing relationship with God and our obedience to His word. When we stray from His path, neglect His commands, or allow sin to take root, we risk experiencing a withdrawal of His manifest blessing, a sense of spiritual barrenness, or even divine discipline that feels like a "rebuke." This is not an arbitrary punishment but a loving Father's correction, designed to bring us back to repentance and restoration. Therefore, this verse should ignite within us a deep desire for self-examination, genuine repentance for any areas of unfaithfulness, and a renewed commitment to diligently seek God's face, trusting in His mercy to restore us and cause His "countenance to shine upon us" once more.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of God's justice and His active involvement in the lives of His people?**
* **In what areas of my life or my community might I be experiencing "spiritual barrenness" or a sense of "being cut down," and could this be linked to a departure from God's will?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "seek God's face" more diligently, ensuring I am abiding in His favor and aligning my life with His purposes?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "vine" metaphor in Psalm 80 and other biblical texts?**

Answer: The "vine" metaphor is profoundly significant throughout the Bible, particularly in relation to Israel. In Psalm 80, it represents the nation of Israel, whom God lovingly "brought out of Egypt" and "planted" in the Promised Land, meticulously caring for it to yield fruit. This imagery underscores God's intimate relationship with His people and His desire for their fruitfulness and prosperity. Other texts like [Isaiah 5:1-7](/isaiah/5-1-7 "Isaiah 5:1-7 - The Song of the Vineyard") and [Jeremiah 2:21](/jeremiah/2-21 "Jeremiah 2:21 - A Degenerate Vine") also use the vine to symbolize Israel, often lamenting its failure to produce good fruit despite God's diligent cultivation. Ultimately, Jesus redefines this metaphor in [John 15:1-8](/john/15-1-8 "John 15:1-8 - Jesus the True Vine"), identifying Himself as the "true vine" and believers as the branches, shifting the focus from national Israel to a spiritual union with Him as the source of true life and fruitfulness.

**How can God's "rebuke of thy countenance" be reconciled with His loving nature?**

Answer: Reconciling God's "rebuke" with His loving nature requires understanding His holiness and justice. While God is inherently loving and merciful, He is also perfectly righteous and cannot tolerate sin. His "rebuke" is not an act of arbitrary anger but a just response to covenant unfaithfulness and disobedience. It serves as divine discipline, a severe but ultimately redemptive act intended to bring His people back to repentance and restoration. Just as a loving parent disciplines a child for their good, God's "rebuke" is an expression of His commitment to His people's ultimate well-being and holiness. It highlights that true love includes correction and accountability, ensuring that His people remain in a right relationship with Him, which is the source of all true blessing and life (e.g., [Hebrews 12:5-11](/hebrews/12-5-11 "Hebrews 12:5-11 - God Disciplines His Children")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 80:16, with its vivid depiction of the vine's destruction under divine rebuke, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. While the psalm laments Israel's suffering due to their unfaithfulness, the New Testament reveals that the ultimate "rebuke" for humanity's sin was borne by Jesus Christ. He, the perfect Son, became the true [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), enduring the fiery wrath and being "cut down" on the cross, so that those who believe in Him might not perish under God's righteous judgment. Furthermore, Jesus Himself redefines the vine metaphor, declaring, [“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.”](/john/15-1 "John 15:1 - Jesus the True Vine"). In Him, the failed vine of Israel finds its perfect expression. Believers are now branches in Him, drawing life and fruitfulness directly from Him, no longer subject to the "rebuke" that brought perishing, for [“there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ"). The psalmist's plea for God to "let your hand be upon the man of your right hand" ([Psalms 80:17](/psalms/80-17 "Psalm 80:17 - The Man of God's Right Hand")) is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who is seated at the right hand of God, interceding for His people, and through whom all restoration and salvation flow.

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

Psalms 39:11

When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man [is] vanity. Selah.

John 15:6

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast [them] into the fire, and they are burned.

2 Thessalonians 1:9

Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;

Isaiah 27:11

When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off: the women come, [and] set them on fire: for it [is] a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour.

Psalms 90:7

¶ For we are consumed by thine anger, and by thy wrath are we troubled.

Psalms 79:5

How long, LORD? wilt thou be angry for ever? shall thy jealousy burn like fire?

Psalms 76:6

At thy rebuke, O God of Jacob, both the chariot and horse are cast into a dead sleep.