Psalms 79:12

"Pay back to our neighbors seven times into their bosom their reproach with which they have reproached you, Lord."

Key Reflection

This verse instructs believers to seek not just justice but a profoundly transformative form of retribution that seeks to heal and restore the sinner, rather than simply exacting vengeance. It echoes Jesus' teaching on forgiveness, challenging us to respond with grace even to those who have wronged us multiple times.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

And render unto our neighbors -That is, the neighbors who had reproached them; the surrounding people who had seen these calamities come upon them, and who had regarded these calamities as proof that their God was unable to protect them, or that they were suffering under his displeasure. See the notes atPsalms 79:4. “Sevenfold.” Seven times the amount of reproach which they have heaped upon us. The word seven is often used to denote many, as seven was one of the perfect numbers. The idea is that of complete or full vengeance. CompareGenesis 4:15,Genesis 4:24;Proverbs 6:31;Isaiah 30:26;Matthew 18:21-22;Luke 17:4. Into their bosom ...

More from Psalms 79

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion