Psalms 70:3
Let them be turned back for a reward of their shame that say, Aha, aha.
Original Language Analysis
יָ֭שׁוּבוּ
Let them be turned back
H7725
יָ֭שׁוּבוּ
Let them be turned back
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
1 of 7
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
עֵ֣קֶב
for a reward
H6118
עֵ֣קֶב
for a reward
Strong's:
H6118
Word #:
3 of 7
a heel, i.e., (figuratively) the last of anything (used adverbially, for ever); also result, i.e., compensation; and so (adverb with preposition or re
בָּשְׁתָּ֑ם
of their shame
H1322
בָּשְׁתָּ֑ם
of their shame
Strong's:
H1322
Word #:
4 of 7
shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol
Historical Context
Ancient warfare and court proceedings included verbal mockery to humiliate opponents. Such mockery of God's anointed constituted rebellion against divine authority, deserving judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond to mockery or contempt for your faith without retaliating in kind?
- What does it mean that mockers receive their own shame as 'reward'?
- How does Christ's vindication after enduring mockery provide hope when you face ridicule for righteousness?
Analysis & Commentary
Those who mock 'Aha, aha' express contemptuous triumph over the afflicted. Being 'turned back for a reward of their shame' means their mockery rebounds on themselves—they're rewarded with the very shame they tried to inflict. This principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7) appears throughout Scripture. Mockers of God's people ultimately mock God Himself, inviting judgment. Christ endured such mockery (Mark 15:29-32), and His resurrection vindicated Him.