Psalms 129:5
Let them all be confounded and turned back that hate Zion.
Original Language Analysis
יֵ֭בֹשׁוּ
Let them all be confounded
H954
יֵ֭בֹשׁוּ
Let them all be confounded
Strong's:
H954
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
וְיִסֹּ֣גוּ
and turned
H5472
וְיִסֹּ֣גוּ
and turned
Strong's:
H5472
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, to flinch, i.e., (by implication) to go back, literally (to retreat) or figuratively (to apostatize)
אָח֑וֹר
back
H268
אָח֑וֹר
back
Strong's:
H268
Word #:
3 of 6
the hinder part; hence (adverb) behind, backward; also (as facing north) the west
Cross References
Isaiah 10:12Wherefore it shall come to pass, that when the Lord hath performed his whole work upon mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the glory of his high looks.Isaiah 37:35For I will defend this city to save it for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake.Psalms 71:13Let them be confounded and consumed that are adversaries to my soul; let them be covered with reproach and dishonour that seek my hurt.Zechariah 12:3And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.Micah 4:11Now also many nations are gathered against thee, that say, Let her be defiled, and let our eye look upon Zion.
Historical Context
Israel's enemies repeatedly attacked Zion/Jerusalem - Assyria, Babylon, and various coalition forces. These attacks weren't merely political but religious - attempting to discredit Israel's God. The prayer for enemies' confusion and defeat appears throughout Scripture (Psalm 35:4; 40:14; 70:2; 83). God's honor is at stake when His people are attacked.
Questions for Reflection
- How do imprecatory psalms (curses on enemies) fit with Christian ethics and love of enemies?
- What is the difference between praying for enemies' defeat and taking personal vengeance?
- Why is hating Zion ultimately hating God, not merely disliking a people or place?
- How does leaving judgment to God free believers from bitterness while maintaining desire for justice?
- In what ways might we pray for confusion and defeat of spiritual enemies (sin, Satan, evil systems)?
Analysis & Commentary
A curse is pronounced: 'Let them all be confounded and turned back that hate Zion.' The imperative 'let them be' is prayer for divine judgment, not personal vengeance. The word 'confounded' (Hebrew 'bosh') means ashamed, disappointed, or put to shame - enemies' plots will fail, producing humiliation. 'Turned back' means repelled, defeated, sent away unsuccessfully. Those 'that hate Zion' aren't merely political enemies but theological opponents - they hate God's dwelling place and covenant people. Hatred of Zion is ultimately hatred of God. The prayer asks that God frustrate and shame those who oppose His purposes. This imprecatory element is common in psalms, expressing desire for divine justice and vindication. It's appropriate to pray for defeat of God's enemies, leaving judgment and execution to God alone.