King James Version

What Does Psalms 69:27 Mean?

“Add iniquity unto their iniquity: and let them not come into thy righteousness. iniquity unto: or, punishment of iniquity, etc”

Context

Let their habitation be desolate; and let none dwell in their tents. their habitation: Heb. their palace let none: Heb. let there not be a dweller

For they persecute him whom thou hast smitten; and they talk to the grief of those whom thou hast wounded. those: Heb. thy wounded

Add iniquity unto their iniquity: and let them not come into thy righteousness. iniquity unto: or, punishment of iniquity, etc

Let them be blotted out of the book of the living, and not be written with the righteous.

But I am poor and sorrowful: let thy salvation, O God, set me up on high.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(27, 28) It is doubtful whether these verses give the talk of the enemies just mentioned, or whether the psalmist himself, after a pause, resumes his imprecations. The former supposition certainly adds a fresh force to the prayer of Psalm 69:29; and it is more natural to suppose that the string of curses, once ended, should not be taken up again. On the other hand, would the apostates, against whom the psalm is directed, have put their animosity into the shape of a wish to have names blotted out of God’s book? If so, it must be in irony. (27) **Add iniquity**—This may be understood in two different senses: (1) *Let sin be added to sin in thy account, till the tale be full. *(2) *Add guilt for guilt, i.e., for each wrong committed write down a punishment.* **And let them not . . .**—*i.e., *let them not be justified in thy sight; not gain their cause at thy tribunal.

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 69:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.