Psalms 70:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 70:2
2 Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt.
Chapter Context
Psalms 70 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, discipleship, righteousness. 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
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 70:2
2 Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt.
Analysis
The imprecatory prayer for enemies to be 'ashamed and confounded' seeks their defeat and humiliation. 'Turned backward' means routed in battle. 'Put to confusion' depicts total disarray. These prayers aren't personal vengeance but appeals for God's justice against those opposing His purposes. Such psalms anticipate final judgment on impenitent evil (Revelation 19:11-21) while modeling how to process anger righteously—bringing it to God rather than taking revenge (Romans 12:19).
Historical Context
Psalm 70 parallels Psalm 40:13-17, a cry for help against enemies. In David's context, personal enemies often opposed God's anointed king, making attacks on David attacks on God's purposes.
Reflection
- How can you pray for God's justice on evildoers without harboring personal bitterness or seeking revenge?
- What is the proper Christian use of imprecatory psalms that call for judgment on enemies?
- How do you balance praying for enemies' conversion (Romans 10:1) with praying for their defeat if they persist in evil?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 35:4, 35:26