Psalms 28:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 28:4
4 Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavours: give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.
Chapter Context
Psalms 28 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, holiness, redemption. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-9: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 28:4
4 Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavours: give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.
Analysis
The imprecatory prayer 'Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavours: give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert' asks for just retribution. Reformed theology defends imprecatory psalms as prayers for justice, not personal vengeance. These prayers align with God's justice—evil must be punished. They anticipate final judgment when God will render to each according to their deeds (Rom. 2:6). The repetition emphasizes just recompense.
Historical Context
Israel's law established lex talionis (eye for eye)—proportional justice. These prayers invoke that principle, asking God to judge wickedness appropriately. They trust divine justice rather than seeking personal revenge.
Reflection
- How do imprecatory psalms balance with Jesus' command to love enemies?
- What role does trust in God's justice play in relinquishing personal vengeance?
Cross-References
- Evil: Ezra 9:13, Ezekiel 38:10, 2 Timothy 4:14
- Parallel theme: Psalms 5:10, 62:12, 103:10, Romans 11:22, Revelation 18:6, 22:12