King James Version
Psalms 106:39 in the King James Version says “Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 106 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.”
Psalms 106:39 · KJV
Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,
And shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan: and the land was polluted with blood.
Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.
Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance.
And he gave them into the hand of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“Thus were they defiled”
H2930to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
“with their own works”
H4639an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
“and went a whoring”
H2181to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Psalms 106:39 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 106:39 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge