Psalms 109:18

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Psalms 109:18 KJV

As he clothed himself with cursing like as with his garment, so let it come into his bowels like water, and like oil into his bones.

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Psalms 109:18 Bible Commentary

Psalms 109:18 Commentary

Verse: "As he clothed himself with cursing like as with his garment, so let it come into his bowels like water, and like oil into his bones."

Overview

This verse from Psalm 109 reflects a profound sense of justice and vengeance. The psalmist, often David, invokes a curse upon his enemies, indicating how their own words and actions will rebound upon them. This commentary draws from various public domain sources to explore the deeper meanings and implications of this verse.

Context of Psalms 109

The entirety of Psalms 109 is characterized by lament and an appeal for divine intervention. David speaks against false accusers and expresses his feelings of betrayal and resentment. The structure and language of the psalm transition from personal suffering to a profound request for God’s justice against those who seek his harm.

Interpretation by Commentators

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the character of the enemies being addressed. He notes that the “clothing” metaphor signifies how the enemies have adorned themselves with cursing and malicious intent. This clothing is representative of their true nature and actions, suggesting a parallel between how one is clothed with righteousness or wickedness. Henry further reflects on the imagery of curses as internalized—entering the bowels and bones, illustrating the deep impact of sin and malice on the soul.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes’ commentary provides additional depths by outlining that the curses mentioned are self-inflicted upon the enemies. He points out that as they act with evil, they should become aware that such actions lead them to their own destruction. By comparing curses to water and oil, Barnes suggests a process of permeation; curses would infiltrate the very being of those who embody them, suggesting a sort of spiritual and moral decay resulting from their actions.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke delves into the anatomy of the curse as described in this verse. He proposes that the psalmist’s expressions vividly convey both the intensity and permanence of the malice that such enemies enact. Clarke notes that the digestive imagery implies that the curses will be ingested or absorbed thoroughly, leading the enemies to a fate of suffering as they unwittingly consume their own wickedness. This highlights the principle of reaping what one sows, fostering a theological understanding of divine justice manifesting in personal consequence.

Theological Implications

This verse opens a discussion on the justice of God. The understanding of how the psalmist calls down curses upon those who malign him calls readers to reflect on the nature of divine justice versus human vengeance. It raises questions about the appropriateness of invoking similar sentiments in contemporary prayer and supplication. It encourages believers to trust in God’s ultimate judgment rather than seeking retribution themselves.

Reflection on Cursing

As contemporary Christians engage with this text, it invites reflection on the power of words—both for blessing and cursing. The psalm underscores how carefully one should consider their own speech and actions, daring them to scrutinize if they too are “clothed in cursing.”

Practical Application

  • Self-Examination: Believers are encouraged to evaluate their own hearts and motives. Are there areas where they’ve allowed bitterness or cursing to dwell within?
  • Prayer for Justice: This psalm serves as a reminder to pray for God’s justice and not to take vengeance into their own hands, fostering trust in God’s sovereignty.
  • Cultivating Righteousness: Instead of embodying curses, Christians are called to reflect Christ’s nature, embodying blessing and forgiveness as responses to wrongs endured.

Conclusion

Psalms 109:18 encapsulates critical themes of justice, the consequences of sin, and divine retribution. Engaging with this verse through the lens of commentary by notable figures such as Henry, Barnes, and Clarke allows for a richer understanding of its implications. For pastors, students, and scholars, it is paramount to wrestle with the scriptural truths revealed in such texts, applying them thoughtfully in a world that is often quick to curse rather than bless.

Psalms 109 (KJV) Verse Selection

Psalms 109:1 Psalms 109:2 Psalms 109:3 Psalms 109:4 Psalms 109:5 Psalms 109:6 Psalms 109:7 Psalms 109:8 Psalms 109:9 Psalms 109:10 Psalms 109:11 Psalms 109:12 Psalms 109:13 Psalms 109:14 Psalms 109:15 Psalms 109:16 Psalms 109:17 Psalms 109:18 Psalms 109:19 Psalms 109:20 Psalms 109:21 Psalms 109:22 Psalms 109:23 Psalms 109:24 Psalms 109:25 Psalms 109:26 Psalms 109:27 Psalms 109:28 Psalms 109:29 Psalms 109:30 Psalms 109:31

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