King James Version
Psalms 109
31 verses with commentary
Help Me, O Lord My God
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. Hold not thy peace, O God of my praise;
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"Hold not thy peace, O God of my praise." This opening petition Elohei tehilati al techaresh (God of my praise, do not be silent) appeals to God to speak and act. Tehilah (praise) is the root of Tehillim (Psalms, literally "praises")—even in distress, the psalmist identifies God as object of praise. Charash (be silent/keep quiet) can indicate either literal silence or inactive indifference. The plea asks God to break His silence by defending His servant against false accusation. Divine silence during injustice tests faith (Psalm 28:1, 35:22, 83:1). Yet God's apparent silence isn't indifference—He reserves judgment for proper timing. This imprecatory Psalm (containing curses on enemies) must be understood within theodicy: when will God vindicate righteousness and judge wickedness?
For the mouth of the wicked and the mouth of the deceitful are opened against me: they have spoken against me with a lying tongue. of the deceitful: Heb. of deceit are opened: Heb. have opened themselves
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For the mouth of the wicked and the mouth of the deceitful are opened against me—The Hebrew פִּי רָשָׁע וּפִי־מִרְמָה (pi rasha ufi-mirmah) emphasizes dual sources of opposition: the openly wicked and the deliberately deceptive. David faces coordinated slander, not isolated criticism. They have spoken against me with a lying tongue (לְשׁוֹן שֶׁקֶר, leshon sheker)—the tongue of falsehood, which Proverbs lists among the seven abominations God hates (Prov 6:16-19).
This verse establishes the psalm's context: David suffers not from honest disagreement but from malicious fabrication. The imprecatory prayers that follow (vv. 6-19) respond to covenant-breaking treachery, not personal offense. Christ experienced this same betrayal from Judas and false witnesses (Matt 26:59-60), making Psalm 109 messianic in application—Peter cited verse 8 regarding Judas's replacement (Acts 1:20).
This verse establishes the psalm's context: David suffers not from honest disagreement but from malicious fabrication. The imprecatory prayers that follow (vv. 6-19) respond to covenant-breaking treachery, not personal offense. Christ experienced this same betrayal from Judas and false witnesses (Matt 26:59-60), making Psalm 109 messianic in application—Peter cited verse 8 regarding Judas's replacement (Acts 1:20).
They compassed me about also with words of hatred; and fought against me without a cause.
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They compassed me about also with words of hatred—The verb סָבַב (savav, "to surround") pictures military encirclement, but the weapons are דִּבְרֵי שִׂנְאָה (divrei sin'ah, "words of hatred"). David faces verbal siege warfare. And fought against me without a cause (יִלָּחֲמוּנִי חִנָּם, yilachamuni chinnam)—gratuitous warfare, echoing Psalm 35:7, 19 and 69:4.
The phrase "without a cause" (חִנָּם) is theologically crucial: unmerited hatred anticipates Christ's statement in John 15:25, where He quotes Psalm 35:19 and 69:4 about being "hated without a cause." David's experience becomes typological of the Messiah's rejection. Proverbs 26:2 teaches that causeless curses cannot land, but causeless hatred still wounds—the righteous sufferer feels the assault even as God nullifies its ultimate power.
The phrase "without a cause" (חִנָּם) is theologically crucial: unmerited hatred anticipates Christ's statement in John 15:25, where He quotes Psalm 35:19 and 69:4 about being "hated without a cause." David's experience becomes typological of the Messiah's rejection. Proverbs 26:2 teaches that causeless curses cannot land, but causeless hatred still wounds—the righteous sufferer feels the assault even as God nullifies its ultimate power.
For my love they are my adversaries: but I give myself unto prayer.
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For my love they are my adversaries—David gave אַהֲבָתִי (ahavati, "my love"), but received שָׂטַן (satan, adversarial opposition—the verb root that yields "Satan"). This is covenant betrayal: love repaid with enmity. But I give myself unto prayer (וַאֲנִי תְפִלָּה, va'ani tefillah)—literally "but I am prayer," an idiom meaning "I am devoted to prayer" or "prayer is my very being."
David models the response Christ commanded: "Pray for them which despitefully use you" (Matt 5:44). Where carnal instinct demands retaliation, David makes himself prayer—his entire being becomes intercession. Significantly, the imprecatory curses in verses 6-19 are themselves prayers, not personal vengeance. David brings his enemies to God's tribunal rather than taking justice into his own hands, fulfilling Romans 12:19: "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."
David models the response Christ commanded: "Pray for them which despitefully use you" (Matt 5:44). Where carnal instinct demands retaliation, David makes himself prayer—his entire being becomes intercession. Significantly, the imprecatory curses in verses 6-19 are themselves prayers, not personal vengeance. David brings his enemies to God's tribunal rather than taking justice into his own hands, fulfilling Romans 12:19: "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."
And they have rewarded me evil for good, and hatred for my love.
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And they have rewarded me evil for good (וַיָּשִׂימוּ עָלַי רָעָה תַּחַת טוֹבָה, vayasimu alai ra'ah tachat tovah)—the preposition תַּחַת (tachat, "in place of") emphasizes substitution: evil instead of good, not alongside it. And hatred for my love (וְשִׂנְאָה תַּחַת אַהֲבָתִי, vesin'ah tachat ahavati)—the same substitution structure intensifies the betrayal.
This verse articulates the central grievance justifying the imprecations that follow. David isn't merely offended; he has suffered covenant betrayal. Proverbs 17:13 pronounces God's curse on those who "reward evil for good." Psalm 35:12 and 38:20 echo this complaint. The principle reaches its apex in Judas, who betrayed Jesus with a kiss after three years of intimacy (Luke 22:47-48). Peter applied Psalm 109:8 to Judas (Acts 1:20), confirming this psalm's messianic and typological significance.
This verse articulates the central grievance justifying the imprecations that follow. David isn't merely offended; he has suffered covenant betrayal. Proverbs 17:13 pronounces God's curse on those who "reward evil for good." Psalm 35:12 and 38:20 echo this complaint. The principle reaches its apex in Judas, who betrayed Jesus with a kiss after three years of intimacy (Luke 22:47-48). Peter applied Psalm 109:8 to Judas (Acts 1:20), confirming this psalm's messianic and typological significance.
Set thou a wicked man over him: and let Satan stand at his right hand. Satan: or, an adversary
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Set thou a wicked man over him (הַפְקֵד עָלָיו רָשָׁע, hafked alav rasha)—the verb פָּקַד (paqad) means "appoint, set in authority." David prays for poetic justice: let the wicked experience wickedness. And let Satan stand at his right hand (וְשָׂטָן יַעֲמֹד עַל־יְמִינוֹ, vesatan ya'amod al-yemino)—this is the only use of שָׂטָן (satan) in the Psalms, meaning "adversary" or "accuser." The right hand is the position of power and advocacy (Ps 16:8; 110:5); David prays the accuser stands there instead of a defender.
Scholars debate whether שָׂטָן is the proper name (Satan) or merely "an adversary." Zechariah 3:1 shows Satan standing at the right hand to accuse Joshua the high priest—identical imagery. Either way, David prays his enemy faces the accusation he inflicted on the innocent. Peter's application to Judas (Acts 1:20, citing v. 8) confirms messianic overtones. Judas had Satan enter him (John 13:27); he became Satan's instrument and thus warranted Satan's own judgment.
Scholars debate whether שָׂטָן is the proper name (Satan) or merely "an adversary." Zechariah 3:1 shows Satan standing at the right hand to accuse Joshua the high priest—identical imagery. Either way, David prays his enemy faces the accusation he inflicted on the innocent. Peter's application to Judas (Acts 1:20, citing v. 8) confirms messianic overtones. Judas had Satan enter him (John 13:27); he became Satan's instrument and thus warranted Satan's own judgment.
When he shall be judged, let him be condemned: and let his prayer become sin. be condemned: Heb. go out guilty, or, wicked
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When he shall be judged, let him be condemned (בְּהִשָּׁפְטוֹ יֵצֵא רָשָׁע, behishafto yetse rasha)—literally "when he is judged, let him go out wicked/guilty." The verb יָצָא (yatsa, "go out") refers to leaving the courtroom with a guilty verdict. And let his prayer become sin (וּתְפִלָּתוֹ תִּהְיֶה לְחַטָּאָה, utefilato tihyeh lechata'ah)—a devastating curse. Prayer normally brings mercy; here it compounds guilt.
Proverbs 28:9 explains: "He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination." When the wicked pray while clinging to wickedness, their prayers insult God. Isaiah 1:15 and 59:2 show God refusing to hear prayers from blood-stained hands and unrepentant hearts. This isn't David wishing evil on random enemies—it's covenant theology: those who betray covenant loyalty forfeit covenant privileges. Their prayers, offered in hypocrisy, become evidence against them at judgment.
Proverbs 28:9 explains: "He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination." When the wicked pray while clinging to wickedness, their prayers insult God. Isaiah 1:15 and 59:2 show God refusing to hear prayers from blood-stained hands and unrepentant hearts. This isn't David wishing evil on random enemies—it's covenant theology: those who betray covenant loyalty forfeit covenant privileges. Their prayers, offered in hypocrisy, become evidence against them at judgment.
Let his days be few; and let another take his office. office: or, charge
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Let his days be few (יִהְיוּ־יָמָיו מְעַטִּים, yihyu-yamav me'atim)—a prayer for premature death as divine judgment. And let another take his office (פְּקֻדָּתוֹ יִקַּח־אַחֵר, pekudato yikach-acher)—the noun פְּקֻדָּה (pekudah) means "office, oversight, position of authority." This is the verse Peter quoted in Acts 1:20 regarding replacing Judas among the Twelve.
Peter's inspired application reveals this psalm's messianic dimension. Judas didn't merely betray a friend; he betrayed the Messiah, suffering the curse David prophetically pronounced. The combination of sudden death (Judas's suicide/fall in Acts 1:18) and replacement (Matthias in Acts 1:26) precisely fulfilled this imprecation. The verse establishes a biblical pattern: covenant-breakers forfeit their standing, and God raises up faithful successors. Saul lost his kingdom to David for this reason (1 Sam 15:28).
Peter's inspired application reveals this psalm's messianic dimension. Judas didn't merely betray a friend; he betrayed the Messiah, suffering the curse David prophetically pronounced. The combination of sudden death (Judas's suicide/fall in Acts 1:18) and replacement (Matthias in Acts 1:26) precisely fulfilled this imprecation. The verse establishes a biblical pattern: covenant-breakers forfeit their standing, and God raises up faithful successors. Saul lost his kingdom to David for this reason (1 Sam 15:28).
Let his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow.
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Let his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow (יִהְיוּ־בָנָיו יְתוֹמִים וְאִשְׁתּוֹ אַלְמָנָה, yihyu-vanav yetomim ve'ishto almanah)—this verse intensifies the judgment to include generational consequences. The words יָתוֹם (yatom, "orphan") and אַלְמָנָה (almanah, "widow") denote the most vulnerable classes in Israelite society, those God specifically protects (Ex 22:22-24; Deut 10:18).
The irony is deliberate: the persecutor made others vulnerable; now his own family joins the ranks of the defenseless. Yet this isn't arbitrary cruelty—it reflects covenant curses in Deuteronomy 28:41 ("Thou shalt beget sons and daughters, but thou shalt not enjoy them") and the principle of intergenerational consequences (Ex 20:5). David isn't creating new punishments; he's invoking Torah-prescribed sanctions for covenant betrayal. Critically, God's special care for widows and orphans means even the enemy's family ultimately falls under divine providence—justice doesn't contradict mercy for the innocent.
The irony is deliberate: the persecutor made others vulnerable; now his own family joins the ranks of the defenseless. Yet this isn't arbitrary cruelty—it reflects covenant curses in Deuteronomy 28:41 ("Thou shalt beget sons and daughters, but thou shalt not enjoy them") and the principle of intergenerational consequences (Ex 20:5). David isn't creating new punishments; he's invoking Torah-prescribed sanctions for covenant betrayal. Critically, God's special care for widows and orphans means even the enemy's family ultimately falls under divine providence—justice doesn't contradict mercy for the innocent.
Let his children be continually vagabonds, and beg: let them seek their bread also out of their desolate places.
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Let his children be continually vagabonds, and beg (נוֹעַ יָנוּעוּ בָנָיו וְשִׁאֵלוּ, noa yanu'u vanav veshi'elu)—the verb נוּעַ (nua) means "wander, be homeless," doubled for emphasis (נוֹעַ יָנוּעוּ, "wander they shall wander"). The verb שָׁאַל (sha'al, "beg, ask for") depicts destitution. Let them seek their bread also out of their desolate places (וְדָרְשׁוּ מֵחָרְבוֹתֵיהֶם, vedoroshu mecharovoteihem)—from the ruins of their inheritance, they scavenge survival.
This curse inverts covenant blessings. Deuteronomy 28:4 promises "blessed shall be the fruit of thy body"; verse 18 threatens "cursed shall be the fruit of thy body." Cain received similar judgment: "a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth" (Gen 4:12). Yet even Cain received God's protective mark—judgment doesn't nullify God's image in humans or His providential care. The specificity here emphasizes complete reversal of prosperity: from landed inheritance to homeless begging.
This curse inverts covenant blessings. Deuteronomy 28:4 promises "blessed shall be the fruit of thy body"; verse 18 threatens "cursed shall be the fruit of thy body." Cain received similar judgment: "a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth" (Gen 4:12). Yet even Cain received God's protective mark—judgment doesn't nullify God's image in humans or His providential care. The specificity here emphasizes complete reversal of prosperity: from landed inheritance to homeless begging.
Let the extortioner catch all that he hath; and let the strangers spoil his labour.
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Let the extortioner catch all that he hath (יְנַקֵּשׁ נוֹשֶׁה לְכָל־אֲשֶׁר־לוֹ, yenakesh noseh lechol-asher-lo)—the verb נָקַשׁ (nakash) means "ensnare, lay snares," used of hunters trapping prey. The noun נוֹשֶׁה (noseh) is a creditor or extortioner. The imagery depicts creditors seizing every asset, reducing the enemy to absolute poverty. And let the strangers spoil his labour (וְיָבֹזּוּ זָרִים יְגִיעוֹ, veyavozu zarim yegio)—זָרִים (zarim, "strangers, foreigners") plunder יְגִיעַ (yegia, "the fruit of toil").
This fulfills the covenant curse of Deuteronomy 28:33: "The fruit of thy land, and all thy labours, shall a nation which thou knowest not eat up." David prays for measure-for-measure justice: those who sought to plunder his kingdom through treachery will themselves be plundered. The involvement of "strangers" adds humiliation—in honor-shame culture, losing inheritance to foreigners was ultimate disgrace. Lamentations 5:2 mourns this: "Our inheritance is turned to strangers, our houses to aliens."
This fulfills the covenant curse of Deuteronomy 28:33: "The fruit of thy land, and all thy labours, shall a nation which thou knowest not eat up." David prays for measure-for-measure justice: those who sought to plunder his kingdom through treachery will themselves be plundered. The involvement of "strangers" adds humiliation—in honor-shame culture, losing inheritance to foreigners was ultimate disgrace. Lamentations 5:2 mourns this: "Our inheritance is turned to strangers, our houses to aliens."
Let there be none to extend mercy unto him: neither let there be any to favour his fatherless children.
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Let there be none to extend mercy unto him (אַל־יְהִי־לוֹ מֹשֵׁךְ חָסֶד, al-yehi-lo moshech chased)—literally "let there be no one drawing out chesed to him." The verb מָשַׁךְ (mashach, "extend, draw out") with חֶסֶד (chesed, "covenant loyalty, steadfast love") depicts someone reaching out with loyal love. David prays this be withheld. Neither let there be any to favour his fatherless children (וְאַל־יְהִי חוֹנֵן לִיתוֹמָיו, ve'al-yehi chonen liyetomav)—חָנַן (chanan, "show favor, be gracious") is denied even to orphans.
This seems harsh until we grasp covenant theology: the persecutor showed no חֶסֶד to those who showed him chesed (v. 5). He violated the fundamental covenant principle—therefore covenant privileges are forfeited. Yet God's character transcends this: He remains "the father of the fatherless" (Ps 68:5) even for children of the wicked. David's prayer reflects temporal judgment and social isolation, not eternal damnation for the innocent. The prayer highlights the persecutor's legacy: he creates a family no one wants to help.
This seems harsh until we grasp covenant theology: the persecutor showed no חֶסֶד to those who showed him chesed (v. 5). He violated the fundamental covenant principle—therefore covenant privileges are forfeited. Yet God's character transcends this: He remains "the father of the fatherless" (Ps 68:5) even for children of the wicked. David's prayer reflects temporal judgment and social isolation, not eternal damnation for the innocent. The prayer highlights the persecutor's legacy: he creates a family no one wants to help.
Let his posterity be cut off; and in the generation following let their name be blotted out.
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Let his posterity be cut off (יְהִי־אַחֲרִיתוֹ לְהַכְרִית, yehi-acharito lehachrit)—אַחֲרִית (acharit, "posterity, future, end") with the Hiphil infinitive of כָּרַת (karat, "cut off") speaks to dynastic extinction. And in the generation following let their name be blotted out (בְּדוֹר אַחֵר יִמַּח שְׁמָם, bedor acher yimach shemam)—the verb מָחָה (machah, "blot out, wipe out") with שֵׁם (shem, "name") means complete obliteration of legacy and memory.
In Israelite thought, posterity and name-preservation were forms of immortality. To have one's name blotted out reversed the covenant promise to Abraham: "I will make thy name great" (Gen 12:2). This is the ultimate curse—not merely death, but being forgotten, leaving no mark. Yet God's book contains names Satan cannot erase (Phil 4:3; Rev 3:5). The contrast highlights covenant blessing: the righteous have names written in heaven even if earthly memory fades; the wicked face both temporal and eternal erasure from God's favor.
In Israelite thought, posterity and name-preservation were forms of immortality. To have one's name blotted out reversed the covenant promise to Abraham: "I will make thy name great" (Gen 12:2). This is the ultimate curse—not merely death, but being forgotten, leaving no mark. Yet God's book contains names Satan cannot erase (Phil 4:3; Rev 3:5). The contrast highlights covenant blessing: the righteous have names written in heaven even if earthly memory fades; the wicked face both temporal and eternal erasure from God's favor.
Let the iniquity of his fathers be remembered with the LORD; and let not the sin of his mother be blotted out.
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Let the iniquity of his fathers be remembered with the LORD (יִזָּכֵר עֲוֺן אֲבֹתָיו אֶל־יְהוָה, yizacher avon avotav el-YHWH)—the verb זָכַר (zachar, "remember") with עָוֺן (avon, "iniquity, guilt") asks God to hold ancestral sins in active memory for judgment. And let not the sin of his mother be blotted out (וְחַטַּאת אִמּוֹ אַל־תִּמָּח, vechatat imo al-timach)—maternal sin (חַטָּאת, chatat) also retained in the divine ledger.
This echoes Exodus 20:5, "visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me." Critics call this unjust, but covenant theology views families as corporate entities: children who continue parental rebellion inherit parental judgment. Ezekiel 18 clarifies the righteous son doesn't die for the father's sin—but the son who perpetuates that sin bears cumulative guilt. David's enemy evidently continued a family legacy of covenant-breaking; thus ancestral guilt compounds rather than being blotted out by generational repentance.
This echoes Exodus 20:5, "visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me." Critics call this unjust, but covenant theology views families as corporate entities: children who continue parental rebellion inherit parental judgment. Ezekiel 18 clarifies the righteous son doesn't die for the father's sin—but the son who perpetuates that sin bears cumulative guilt. David's enemy evidently continued a family legacy of covenant-breaking; thus ancestral guilt compounds rather than being blotted out by generational repentance.
Let them be before the LORD continually, that he may cut off the memory of them from the earth.
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Let them be before the LORD continually (יִהְיוּ נֶגֶד־יְהוָה תָּמִיד, yihyu neged-YHWH tamid)—the sins remain נֶגֶד (neged, "before, in front of") God perpetually (תָּמִיד, tamid, "continually, always"). This contrasts sharply with Psalm 103:12: "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us." That he may cut off the memory of them from the earth (וְיַכְרֵת מֵאֶרֶץ זִכְרָם, veyachret me'erets zichram)—the purpose clause: sins kept before God so their זֵכֶר (zecher, "memory, remembrance") may be כָּרַת (karat, "cut off") from earth.
David prays for the opposite of what God promises the righteous. Proverbs 10:7 says "the memory of the just is blessed," but the wicked become a curse. Isaiah 65:15 pronounces similar judgment: "Ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen." The theological point: sins confessed and forsaken are removed from God's memory (Heb 8:12); sins cherished and unrepented remain perpetually before His tribunal, ensuring the sinner's name perishes.
David prays for the opposite of what God promises the righteous. Proverbs 10:7 says "the memory of the just is blessed," but the wicked become a curse. Isaiah 65:15 pronounces similar judgment: "Ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen." The theological point: sins confessed and forsaken are removed from God's memory (Heb 8:12); sins cherished and unrepented remain perpetually before His tribunal, ensuring the sinner's name perishes.
Because that he remembered not to shew mercy, but persecuted the poor and needy man, that he might even slay the broken in heart.
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Because that he remembered not to shew mercy (יַעַן אֲשֶׁר לֹא זָכַר עֲשׂוֹת חָסֶד, ya'an asher lo zachar asot chased)—this verse grounds the preceding curses. The enemy לֹא זָכַר (lo zachar, "did not remember") to do חֶסֶד (chesed, covenant loyalty). But persecuted the poor and needy man (וַיִּרְדֹּף אִישׁ־עָנִי וְאֶבְיוֹן, vayirdof ish-ani ve'evyon)—the verb רָדַף (radaf, "pursue, persecute") depicts hunting. עָנִי (ani, "poor, afflicted") and אֶבְיוֹן (evyon, "needy, destitute") are God's specially protected classes. That he might even slay the broken in heart (וְנִכְאֵה לֵבָב לְמוֹתֵת, venich'eh levav lemottet)—to kill (מוּת, mut) the נִכְאֵה לֵבָב (nich'eh levav, "broken in heart").
This verse provides the moral justification for imprecation. The enemy didn't commit minor offenses—he hunted the vulnerable whom God loves. Psalm 34:18 promises "The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart"; to slay such people is to attack God's beloved. James 1:27 defines pure religion as caring for widows and orphans; the opposite—exploiting them—merits severe judgment. David himself was עָנִי וְאֶבְיוֹן during his fugitive years; this prayer may be partially autobiographical.
This verse provides the moral justification for imprecation. The enemy didn't commit minor offenses—he hunted the vulnerable whom God loves. Psalm 34:18 promises "The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart"; to slay such people is to attack God's beloved. James 1:27 defines pure religion as caring for widows and orphans; the opposite—exploiting them—merits severe judgment. David himself was עָנִי וְאֶבְיוֹן during his fugitive years; this prayer may be partially autobiographical.
As he loved cursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not in blessing, so let it be far from him.
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As he loved cursing, so let it come unto him (וַיֶּאֱהַב קְלָלָה וַתְּבוֹאֵהוּ, vaye'ehav kelalah vattevo'ehu)—he אָהַב (ahav, "loved") קְלָלָה (kelalah, "cursing"), so it comes upon him. As he delighted not in blessing, so let it be far from him (וְלֹא־חָפֵץ בִּבְרָכָה וַתִּרְחַק מִמֶּנּוּ, velo-chafets bivrachah vattirchak mimenu)—he had no pleasure (חָפֵץ, chafets) in בְּרָכָה (berachah, "blessing"), so it distances itself.
This is the lex talionis (law of retaliation) in spiritual terms: you receive what you love. Proverbs 26:2 states "the curse causeless shall not come," but a curse loved returns to its sender. Balaam learned this—hired to curse Israel, his curses became blessings (Num 23:11); ultimately he died in judgment (Num 31:8). The principle appears throughout Scripture: those who curse God's people curse themselves (Gen 12:3). Galatians 6:7 summarizes: "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." David doesn't create new judgment; he asks God to return the enemy's own wickedness upon his head.
This is the lex talionis (law of retaliation) in spiritual terms: you receive what you love. Proverbs 26:2 states "the curse causeless shall not come," but a curse loved returns to its sender. Balaam learned this—hired to curse Israel, his curses became blessings (Num 23:11); ultimately he died in judgment (Num 31:8). The principle appears throughout Scripture: those who curse God's people curse themselves (Gen 12:3). Galatians 6:7 summarizes: "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." David doesn't create new judgment; he asks God to return the enemy's own wickedness upon his head.
As he clothed himself with cursing like as with his garment, so let it come into his bowels like water, and like oil into his bones. into his bowels: Heb. within him
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As he clothed himself with cursing like as with his garment (וַיִּלְבַּשׁ קְלָלָה כְּמַדּוֹ, vayilbash kelalah kemado)—the verb לָבַשׁ (lavash, "clothe, put on") pictures cursing as a garment (מַד, mad). Cursing became his identity, what he wore publicly. So let it come into his bowels like water (וַתָּבֹא כַמַּיִם בְּקִרְבּוֹ, vattavo chamaim bekirbo)—it enters his קֶרֶב (kerev, "inward parts, bowels"), like water penetrating. And like oil into his bones (וְכַשֶּׁמֶן בְּעַצְמוֹתָיו, vechashemen be'atsmotav)—oil soaks into עֲצָמוֹת (atsamot, "bones").
The imagery intensifies: cursing moves from external garment to internal essence—saturating every fiber of being. Water and oil both penetrate thoroughly; oil especially sinks into porous bone. Numbers 5:22-27 describes similar language for the adultery curse-water entering the body. The point: the enemy so internalized cursing that it defines him inside and out. Therefore judgment penetrates equally deeply—he cannot escape what has become his very nature. This anticipates Romans 1:24-28: God "gave them up" to their own desires, which became their judgment.
The imagery intensifies: cursing moves from external garment to internal essence—saturating every fiber of being. Water and oil both penetrate thoroughly; oil especially sinks into porous bone. Numbers 5:22-27 describes similar language for the adultery curse-water entering the body. The point: the enemy so internalized cursing that it defines him inside and out. Therefore judgment penetrates equally deeply—he cannot escape what has become his very nature. This anticipates Romans 1:24-28: God "gave them up" to their own desires, which became their judgment.
Let it be unto him as the garment which covereth him, and for a girdle wherewith he is girded continually.
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Let it be unto him as the garment which covereth him (תְּהִי־לוֹ כְּבֶגֶד יַעְטֶה, tehi-lo kheveged ya'teh)—the verb עָטָה (atah, "wrap, cover") with בֶּגֶד (beged, "garment") completes the clothing metaphor. And for a girdle wherewith he is girded continually (וּלְמֵזַח תָּמִיד יַחְגְּרֶהָ, ulmeizach tamid yachgerehah)—מֵזַח (meizach, "belt, girdle") worn תָּמִיד (tamid, "continually, perpetually"). The verb חָגַר (chagar, "gird") speaks of binding tight.
The curse becomes permanent fixture—not something he can remove. Job 8:13-14 uses similar imagery: the hypocrite's trust is "as a spider's web," fragile and temporary; here cursing binds like leather worn daily. Isaiah 59:17 shows God putting on "garments of vengeance" and "zeal as a cloak"; David prays the enemy wears his own wickedness as inescapable raiment. The girdle/belt held garments together and secured weapons—symbolizing readiness and identity. The enemy's identity is now cursing; he cannot ungird himself from judgment.
The curse becomes permanent fixture—not something he can remove. Job 8:13-14 uses similar imagery: the hypocrite's trust is "as a spider's web," fragile and temporary; here cursing binds like leather worn daily. Isaiah 59:17 shows God putting on "garments of vengeance" and "zeal as a cloak"; David prays the enemy wears his own wickedness as inescapable raiment. The girdle/belt held garments together and secured weapons—symbolizing readiness and identity. The enemy's identity is now cursing; he cannot ungird himself from judgment.
Let this be the reward of mine adversaries from the LORD, and of them that speak evil against my soul.
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Let this be the reward of mine adversaries from the LORD, and of them that speak evil against my soul. This verse concludes the imprecatory section of Psalm 109, summarizing David's appeal for divine justice against false accusers and malicious enemies. The word "reward" (pe'ullah, פְּעֻלָּה) refers to recompense or wages—what one deserves for their actions. David isn't seeking personal vengeance but divine justice, appealing to "the LORD" (Yahweh) as the righteous judge who repays according to deeds.
The phrase "speak evil against my soul" (nefesh, נֶפֶשׁ) indicates attacks aimed at David's very life and being—not mere criticism but malicious slander intended to destroy. The imprecatory psalms (prayers for judgment) trouble modern readers but reflect several biblical realities: (1) God's righteousness demands justice for evil; (2) victims may appeal to God rather than taking personal revenge; (3) these prayers express holy hatred of sin while leaving judgment to God; (4) they anticipate the final judgment when all wrongs will be righted.
Theologically, this psalm foreshadows Christ's experience of betrayal by Judas (John 13:18; Acts 1:20). Jesus endured false accusation and evil speech, yet responded not with cursing but with forgiveness (Luke 23:34). This contrast illuminates the gospel: Christ bore the curse we deserved (Galatians 3:13), satisfying divine justice while extending mercy to enemies. Believers now pray for enemies' conversion rather than destruction, knowing Christ absorbed God's wrath against sin.
The phrase "speak evil against my soul" (nefesh, נֶפֶשׁ) indicates attacks aimed at David's very life and being—not mere criticism but malicious slander intended to destroy. The imprecatory psalms (prayers for judgment) trouble modern readers but reflect several biblical realities: (1) God's righteousness demands justice for evil; (2) victims may appeal to God rather than taking personal revenge; (3) these prayers express holy hatred of sin while leaving judgment to God; (4) they anticipate the final judgment when all wrongs will be righted.
Theologically, this psalm foreshadows Christ's experience of betrayal by Judas (John 13:18; Acts 1:20). Jesus endured false accusation and evil speech, yet responded not with cursing but with forgiveness (Luke 23:34). This contrast illuminates the gospel: Christ bore the curse we deserved (Galatians 3:13), satisfying divine justice while extending mercy to enemies. Believers now pray for enemies' conversion rather than destruction, knowing Christ absorbed God's wrath against sin.
But do thou for me, O GOD the Lord, for thy name's sake: because thy mercy is good, deliver thou me.
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"But do thou for me, O GOD the Lord, for thy name's sake: because thy mercy is good, deliver thou me." This verse shifts from imprecation against enemies to petition for personal deliverance. Ve'atah Adonai YHWH aseh itti l'ma'an shemekha (But you, Lord YHWH, do for me for your name's sake) grounds the appeal in God's reputation and character, not the psalmist's merit. L'ma'an shemekha (for your name's sake) indicates concern for divine honor—God's reputation is at stake when His servants suffer unjustly. Ki tov chasdekha (because good is your mercy/lovingkindness) affirms God's character. Tov (good) means beneficial, pleasant, agreeable, morally right. Chesed (mercy/lovingkindness/covenant loyalty) is God's faithful love. The plea hatsileini (deliver me) requests rescue. The basis: God's name/reputation and His good mercy—not human worthiness.
For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me.
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For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me. David declares his condition using ani (עָנִי, poor/afflicted) and evyon (אֶבְיוֹן, needy), terms denoting socioeconomic vulnerability but primarily spiritual destitution. The phrase my heart is wounded uses chalal (חָלַל), meaning pierced or slain, describing trauma deeper than physical suffering.
This self-description grounds David's imprecatory prayers (verses 6-19) in genuine affliction, not vindictive spite. The wounded heart reveals emotional and spiritual anguish—betrayal by a trusted friend (verse 4) has left him psychologically devastated. This parallels Christ's experience, who quoted this psalm (verse 8 in Acts 1:20) and knew intimate betrayal by Judas.
The poverty David describes transcends material lack, encompassing complete dependence on God for vindication and deliverance. Like the anawim (the humble poor) throughout Scripture, David positions himself as one who has nowhere to turn but to God's mercy. This spiritual poverty anticipates Jesus's beatitude: "Blessed are the poor in spirit" (Matthew 5:3).
This self-description grounds David's imprecatory prayers (verses 6-19) in genuine affliction, not vindictive spite. The wounded heart reveals emotional and spiritual anguish—betrayal by a trusted friend (verse 4) has left him psychologically devastated. This parallels Christ's experience, who quoted this psalm (verse 8 in Acts 1:20) and knew intimate betrayal by Judas.
The poverty David describes transcends material lack, encompassing complete dependence on God for vindication and deliverance. Like the anawim (the humble poor) throughout Scripture, David positions himself as one who has nowhere to turn but to God's mercy. This spiritual poverty anticipates Jesus's beatitude: "Blessed are the poor in spirit" (Matthew 5:3).
I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the locust.
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I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the locust. Two vivid metaphors capture David's sense of transience and helplessness. The declining shadow (ke-tsel kintoyo, כְּצֵל כִּנְטוֹתוֹ) refers to lengthening afternoon shadows that signal day's end—fleeting, insubstantial, soon to vanish entirely. David feels his life ebbing away, his substance dissolving like shadows before nightfall.
The locust image conveys violent instability: tossed up and down translates ni'arti (נִעֲרְתִּי, shaken off), describing how locusts are shaken from garments or driven by wind. Locusts were both destructive pests and symbols of vulnerability to external forces. David experiences powerlessness—buffeted by circumstances, unable to control his destiny, shaken like an insect from clothing.
These metaphors express existential despair yet remain grounded in prayer. David brings his sense of dissolution and helplessness directly to God, modeling lament that doesn't avoid raw emotion but channels it toward the only One who can restore substance to shadow-lives and stability to those storm-tossed.
The locust image conveys violent instability: tossed up and down translates ni'arti (נִעֲרְתִּי, shaken off), describing how locusts are shaken from garments or driven by wind. Locusts were both destructive pests and symbols of vulnerability to external forces. David experiences powerlessness—buffeted by circumstances, unable to control his destiny, shaken like an insect from clothing.
These metaphors express existential despair yet remain grounded in prayer. David brings his sense of dissolution and helplessness directly to God, modeling lament that doesn't avoid raw emotion but channels it toward the only One who can restore substance to shadow-lives and stability to those storm-tossed.
My knees are weak through fasting; and my flesh faileth of fatness.
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My knees are weak through fasting; and my flesh faileth of fatness. Physical deterioration accompanies David's spiritual anguish. Kashal (כָּשַׁל, weak/stumbling) describes knees that can no longer support body weight, while my flesh faileth of fatness uses kaḥash (כָּחַשׁ, grow lean/waste away), indicating severe emaciation.
The fasting mentioned here likely combines religious discipline with grief-induced loss of appetite. In Israel's culture, fasting expressed mourning, repentance, and urgent petition before God. David's physical weakness testifies to the intensity and duration of his suffering—this is no brief trial but prolonged affliction that has consumed his body.
This verse anticipates the Suffering Servant who was "despised and rejected" with "no beauty that we should desire him" (Isaiah 53:2-3). Christ's physical suffering on the cross, weakened by beatings and crucifixion, fulfills the pattern of the righteous sufferer who trusts God through bodily affliction. The visible wasting of David's body makes his suffering undeniable and intensifies his appeal for divine intervention.
The fasting mentioned here likely combines religious discipline with grief-induced loss of appetite. In Israel's culture, fasting expressed mourning, repentance, and urgent petition before God. David's physical weakness testifies to the intensity and duration of his suffering—this is no brief trial but prolonged affliction that has consumed his body.
This verse anticipates the Suffering Servant who was "despised and rejected" with "no beauty that we should desire him" (Isaiah 53:2-3). Christ's physical suffering on the cross, weakened by beatings and crucifixion, fulfills the pattern of the righteous sufferer who trusts God through bodily affliction. The visible wasting of David's body makes his suffering undeniable and intensifies his appeal for divine intervention.
I became also a reproach unto them: when they looked upon me they shaked their heads.
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I became also a reproach unto them: when they looked upon me they shaked their heads. Public mockery compounds David's affliction. Cherpah (חֶרְפָּה, reproach/disgrace) indicates shameful contempt, while head-shaking was a gesture of scorn, derision, and triumph over the fallen. David has become a spectacle of humiliation, his enemies gloating over his reduced condition.
This verse finds profound fulfillment in Christ's passion. At the cross, passersby "shook their heads" at Jesus (Matthew 27:39, Mark 15:29), mocking Him with the same contempt David experienced. The reproach of God's anointed becomes the reproach of the Messiah, who bore ultimate shame and rejection on behalf of His people. What David suffered as type, Christ endured as antitype.
The public nature of suffering intensifies its pain—private affliction becomes communal spectacle. Yet this very publicity also establishes witnesses to God's eventual vindication. When God restores the scorned, the same crowd that mocked will see His power. David's confidence that God will answer (verse 26) rests on covenant promises that God will not ultimately abandon His anointed.
This verse finds profound fulfillment in Christ's passion. At the cross, passersby "shook their heads" at Jesus (Matthew 27:39, Mark 15:29), mocking Him with the same contempt David experienced. The reproach of God's anointed becomes the reproach of the Messiah, who bore ultimate shame and rejection on behalf of His people. What David suffered as type, Christ endured as antitype.
The public nature of suffering intensifies its pain—private affliction becomes communal spectacle. Yet this very publicity also establishes witnesses to God's eventual vindication. When God restores the scorned, the same crowd that mocked will see His power. David's confidence that God will answer (verse 26) rests on covenant promises that God will not ultimately abandon His anointed.
Help me, O LORD my God: O save me according to thy mercy:
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Help me, O LORD my God: O save me according to thy mercy: This urgent cry for divine intervention comes from one of the most intense imprecatory psalms. The Hebrew ezreni (עָזְרֵנִי, "help me") and hoshi'eni (הוֹשִׁיעֵנִי, "save me") are imperatives expressing desperate dependence on God. The psalmist (traditionally David) faces false accusation and vicious enemies who repay his good with evil and his love with hatred (verses 4-5).
The address "O LORD my God" (Yahweh Elohai) combines God's covenant name (Yahweh) with the personal possessive ("my God"), asserting both God's faithfulness to His promises and the psalmist's personal relationship with Him. This dual invocation grounds the appeal in covenant loyalty.
The phrase "according to thy mercy" (k'chasdeka, כְּחַסְדֶּךָ) is crucial—the psalmist appeals not to his own merit but to God's hesed (חֶסֶד), His covenant-keeping love and loyal faithfulness. This mercy-based appeal recognizes that salvation comes through God's gracious character, not human deserving. Theologically, this points forward to salvation by grace through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). The psalm's imprecations against enemies ultimately find fulfillment in Christ's judgment against all who oppose God's kingdom, while His mercy saves those who trust Him.
The address "O LORD my God" (Yahweh Elohai) combines God's covenant name (Yahweh) with the personal possessive ("my God"), asserting both God's faithfulness to His promises and the psalmist's personal relationship with Him. This dual invocation grounds the appeal in covenant loyalty.
The phrase "according to thy mercy" (k'chasdeka, כְּחַסְדֶּךָ) is crucial—the psalmist appeals not to his own merit but to God's hesed (חֶסֶד), His covenant-keeping love and loyal faithfulness. This mercy-based appeal recognizes that salvation comes through God's gracious character, not human deserving. Theologically, this points forward to salvation by grace through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). The psalm's imprecations against enemies ultimately find fulfillment in Christ's judgment against all who oppose God's kingdom, while His mercy saves those who trust Him.
That they may know that this is thy hand; that thou, LORD, hast done it.
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That they may know that this is thy hand (וְיֵדְעוּ כִּי־יָדְךָ זֹּאת, ve-yed'u ki-yadkha zot)—Yada means know, recognize; yad means hand, often metaphorically for power, action. That thou, LORD, hast done it (אַתָּה יְהוָה עֲשִׂיתָהּ, attah YHWH asitah)—Asah means make, do, accomplish.
Psalm 109 is an imprecatory psalm where David calls down judgment on enemies who have falsely accused him. Verses 21-26 plead for deliverance; verse 27 requests that vindication be so clear that observers recognize God's hand at work. This isn't about personal revenge but divine glory—that YHWH be known as the one who rescues his servants. Joseph's elevation (Genesis 50:20) and Jesus's resurrection demonstrate this pattern.
Psalm 109 is an imprecatory psalm where David calls down judgment on enemies who have falsely accused him. Verses 21-26 plead for deliverance; verse 27 requests that vindication be so clear that observers recognize God's hand at work. This isn't about personal revenge but divine glory—that YHWH be known as the one who rescues his servants. Joseph's elevation (Genesis 50:20) and Jesus's resurrection demonstrate this pattern.
Let them curse, but bless thou: when they arise, let them be ashamed; but let thy servant rejoice.
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Let them curse, but bless thou (יְקַלְלוּ־הֵמָּה וְאַתָּה תְבָרֵךְ, yekallelu-hemmah ve-attah tevarekh)—Kalal means curse; barakh means bless. When they arise, let them be ashamed; but let thy servant rejoice (קָמוּ וַיֵּבֹשׁוּ וְעַבְדְּךָ יִשְׂמָח, kamu vayyevoshu ve-avdkha yismach)—Bosh means be ashamed, put to shame; samach means rejoice, be glad.
David contrasts human cursing with divine blessing. When enemies curse, it's impotent; when God blesses, it's effective. This recalls Balaam's inability to curse Israel: "How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed?" (Numbers 23:8). Their rising up ends in shame; God's servant ends in joy. This principle is visible throughout Scripture—Pharaoh cursed Israel but was destroyed; Haman cursed Mordecai but was hanged. God's blessing outweighs all human cursing.
David contrasts human cursing with divine blessing. When enemies curse, it's impotent; when God blesses, it's effective. This recalls Balaam's inability to curse Israel: "How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed?" (Numbers 23:8). Their rising up ends in shame; God's servant ends in joy. This principle is visible throughout Scripture—Pharaoh cursed Israel but was destroyed; Haman cursed Mordecai but was hanged. God's blessing outweighs all human cursing.
Let mine adversaries be clothed with shame, and let them cover themselves with their own confusion, as with a mantle.
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Let mine adversaries be clothed with shame (יִלְבְּשׁוּ צוֹרְרַי כְּלִמָּה, yilbeshu tzorerai kelimah)—Labash means clothe, be dressed in; kelimah means shame, disgrace, dishonor. And let them cover themselves with their own confusion, as with a mantle (וְיַעֲטוּ כַמְעִיל בָּשְׁתָּם, ve-ya'atu kham'il boshtam)—Atah means wrap oneself, cover; me'il means robe, mantle; boshet means shame, confusion.
David uses clothing imagery—enemies will be wrapped in shame as visibly as wearing a robe. This isn't vindictive but judicial: the shame they intended for David returns upon them. Esther 6:11-12 illustrates this—Haman was forced to honor Mordecai publicly, then "went home mourning, and having his head covered" (a sign of shame). The imagery of shame as clothing appears often (Psalm 35:26, 132:18, Job 8:22).
David uses clothing imagery—enemies will be wrapped in shame as visibly as wearing a robe. This isn't vindictive but judicial: the shame they intended for David returns upon them. Esther 6:11-12 illustrates this—Haman was forced to honor Mordecai publicly, then "went home mourning, and having his head covered" (a sign of shame). The imagery of shame as clothing appears often (Psalm 35:26, 132:18, Job 8:22).
I will greatly praise the LORD with my mouth; yea, I will praise him among the multitude.
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I will greatly praise the LORD with my mouth (אוֹדֶה יְהוָה מְאֹד בְּפִי, odeh YHWH me'od be-fi)—Yadah means praise, give thanks; me'od means greatly, exceedingly. Yea, I will praise him among the multitude (וּבְתוֹךְ רַבִּים אֲהַלְלֶנּוּ, u-ve-tokh rabbim ahallelenu)—Halal means praise, boast in; rabbim means many, multitude.
After intense imprecation (vv. 6-20) and desperate petition (vv. 21-29), David concludes with praise—not after deliverance, but in anticipation of it. This is faith's pattern: cry out in distress, then praise before seeing the answer. The shift from private ("with my mouth") to public ("among the multitude") shows praise should move from personal devotion to corporate testimony. Verse 31 will explain why: God defends the poor.
After intense imprecation (vv. 6-20) and desperate petition (vv. 21-29), David concludes with praise—not after deliverance, but in anticipation of it. This is faith's pattern: cry out in distress, then praise before seeing the answer. The shift from private ("with my mouth") to public ("among the multitude") shows praise should move from personal devotion to corporate testimony. Verse 31 will explain why: God defends the poor.
For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save him from those that condemn his soul. those: Heb. the judges of
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For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor (כִּי־יַעֲמֹד לִימִין אֶבְיוֹן, ki-ya'amod limin evyon)—Amad means stand, take a stand; yamin means right hand, the place of advocacy/defense; evyon means poor, needy, afflicted. To save him from those that condemn his soul (לְהוֹשִׁיעַ מִשֹּׁפְטֵי נַפְשׁוֹ, lehoshi'a mi-shoftei nafsho)—Yasha means save, deliver; shoftei means those who judge; nefesh means soul, life, person.
This verse explains the confidence behind verse 30's praise: God stands as advocate for the powerless. The "right hand" is the position of the defender in court. While enemies accuse, God stands as defense attorney for the evyon (afflicted poor). This anticipates Christ's advocacy: "We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1). Romans 8:34 says Christ "is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us."
This verse explains the confidence behind verse 30's praise: God stands as advocate for the powerless. The "right hand" is the position of the defender in court. While enemies accuse, God stands as defense attorney for the evyon (afflicted poor). This anticipates Christ's advocacy: "We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1). Romans 8:34 says Christ "is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us."