King James Version
What Does Psalms 69:10 Mean?
“When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach.”
Context
8
I am become a stranger unto my brethren, and an alien unto my mother's children.
9
For the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me.
10
When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach.
11
I made sackcloth also my garment; and I became a proverb to them.
12
They that sit in the gate speak against me; and I was the song of the drunkards . drunkards: Heb. drinkers of strong drink
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **When I wept . . .**—The expression *I wept *(or *lamented*)* my soul with fasting *is hardly intelligible, though perhaps we might say *I wept out my soul with fasting. *The LXX. and Psalm 35:13 suggest an emendation to “I humbled my soul with fasting.”
**To my reproach.**—Quite literally and better, *a reproach to me. *Those who made light of the covenant altogether, who were in heart apostates both to faith and patriotism, would naturally treat with contempt those outward signs by which an erring Israelite owned his offence and sought reconciliation.
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 69:10 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 69:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge