King James Version
What Does Psalms 39:11 Mean?
“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. his: Heb. that which is to be desired in him to melt away”
Context
9
I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst it.
10
Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thine hand. blow: Heb. conflict
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. his: Heb. that which is to be desired in him to melt away
12
Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.
13
O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **When.**—This is unnecessary. *With judgments for sin Thou chastenest a man.*
**Rebukes.**—The word rendered “reproofs” in Psalm 38:14, where see Note.
**Beauty.**—Literally, *Something desirable. *(See margin.) *Thou, like a moth *(consuming a garment: see Pr. Bk. Version), *causest his desirable things to melt. *(*For *the image, singularly apt. and natural in a country where “changes of raiment” were so prized, and hoarded up as wealth, comp. Job 13:28; Matthew 6:19; James 5:2.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
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.
Theological Significance
Psalms 39:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 39:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge