Psalms 109:17

"because he didn’t remember to show kindness, but persecuted the poor and needy man, the broken in heart, to kill them."

Key Reflection

In the context of first-century Israel, Psalms 109:17 paints a vivid picture of someone who fails to show mercy and compassion toward the vulnerable, instead resorting to persecution and even violence against those in need. This passage would have resonated with the audience's understanding of justice and divine judgment, suggesting that such behavior would not go unpunished, as God often judges according to how one treats the poor and marginalized.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

As he loved cursing ... -As he loved to curse others; as he seemed to have a pleasure alike in the act of cursing and in the feeling which prompts to cursing, let him see what it is; let it come upon him in its fullness. He has chosen this as his portion; let it be his. This, in the original, is in the indicative mood, and not, as in our version, in the optative form: “He loved cursing, and it has come upon him; he did not delight in blessing, and it is far from him.” Still, the connection would rather seem to require that we should understand this as a prayer, and not as an affirmation, for t

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