King James Version
What Does Psalms 90:8 Mean?
“Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, our secret sins in the light of thy countenance.”
Context
6
In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.
7
For we are consumed by thine anger, and by thy wrath are we troubled.
8
Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, our secret sins in the light of thy countenance.
9
For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we spend our years as a tale that is told. passed: Heb. turned away as a: or, as a meditation
10
The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. The days: Heb. As for the days of our years, in them are seventy years
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **Our secret** **sins.**—Or, to keep the singular of the original, *our secret *(character).
The expression, “light of God’s countenance,” usually means “favour.” But here the word rendered light is not the usual one employed in that expression, but rather means a body of light: “the sun (or eye) of Thy countenance.” Comp.:
“Then Seeva opened on the accursed one
His eye of anger.”
SOUTHEY: *Curse of Kehama,*
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 90:8 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 90:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge