Psalms 79:12

Basque (EAB) 2008 (Elizen Arteko Biblia (Biblia en Euskara, Traducción Interconfesional))

Ordaindu, Jauna, auzoko herriei zazpi halakoz zuri egin dizkizuten iraina eta isekak.

What Does This Mean?

This verse is a prayer asking God to deal with those who have insulted and dishonored Him. The speaker is asking for God to return the insults seven times over to those who have reproached Him.

Explained for Children

Imagine if someone was mean to your best friend, and you wished for them to feel seven times worse. This verse is like that, but instead of a friend, it’s about God, and people are being mean to Him.

Historical Background

Psalms 79 was written by Asaph, a Levite and a leader of the Temple singers during the time of David and Solomon. This psalm reflects the distress and suffering of the Israelites under foreign oppression, and it calls out to God for justice and restoration.

Living It Out Today

In a modern context, this verse can remind us to seek justice for the mistreatment of others, especially when someone disrespects a person or cause we hold dear. However, it also encourages us to rely on God's justice rather than seeking revenge ourselves.

Topics

• justice
• prayer
• reproach
• forgiveness
• vengeance
• hope

Related Verses

• Leviticus 26:21
• Deuteronomy 28:59
• Proverbs 26:21
• Matthew 18:23-35
• Luke 17:3-4

Recommended Reading

Commentary Psalms Commentaries → Get This Bible EAB Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'sevenfold' mean in Psalms 79:12?

'Sevenfold' suggests a complete or full measure of something. In this context, it implies that God's justice will be thoroughly and fully applied.

Is asking for revenge against those who insult God a common theme in the Psalms?

Yes, many Psalms express a desire for God to judge those who wrong His people. However, this is often a call for divine justice rather than personal revenge.

How should Christians interpret the call for retribution in Psalms 79:12?

Christians are called to forgive others and leave justice to God. This verse should be seen as a prayer for God's justice rather than a call to personal retaliation.

What is the significance of 'bosom' in Psalms 79:12?

'Bosom' in this context refers to the chest area and symbolizes the close place where a person keeps their most personal belongings. It suggests that the reproach will be deeply felt by those who insulted God.