King James Version
Psalms 40:15 in the King James Version says “Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha, aha.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha, aha.”
Psalms 40:15 · KJV
Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me: O LORD, make haste to help me.
Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.
Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha, aha.
Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.
But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“Let them be desolate”
H8074to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), i.e., devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense)
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“for a reward”
H6118a heel, i.e., (figuratively) the last of anything (used adverbially, for ever); also result, i.e., compensation; and so (adverb with preposition or re
“of their shame”
H1322shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol
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 40:15 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 40:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge