Psalms 109:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 109:20 mean?

Psalms 109:20 asks that the LORD give a specific outcome or "reward" to the psalmist’s adversaries and to those who speak evil against him. The verse is a call for God to respond to those who have wronged or slandered the speaker.

In this psalm, David is speaking to God about people who are attacking him with words and actions. The verse comes in the middle of a prayer where David is asking for justice against those who have treated him unfairly, especially those who have spoken harmfully about his life and character.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 109:20

• "reward" (פְּעֻלָּה, pə‘ullāh): This word often means wages or compensation, usually for work done. Here, it is used to mean the outcome or consequence that David wants his adversaries to receive for their actions.
• "adversaries" (שָׂטָן, śāṭān): This word can mean an opponent or accuser. In this context, it refers to those who are actively working against David, not just people who disagree with him.
• "speak" (דָּבַר, dābar): This verb means to speak or declare. The focus is on those who have used their words to harm David.
• "evil" (רַע, ra‘): This word means bad, harmful, or wicked. It highlights that the speech directed against David is not just negative but morally wrong.
• "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh): This word refers to the life or inner self. The attacks are not just against David’s reputation but are felt deeply, affecting his whole being.

Why Psalms 109:20 matters

• This verse shows that the psalmist is not seeking personal revenge but is asking God to handle the matter, trusting in divine justice rather than taking action himself.
• The use of words like "adversaries" and "evil" makes clear that the conflict is not just a personal disagreement but involves real harm and injustice.
• Understanding the original words helps clarify that David feels attacked at the deepest level ("soul") and that his prayer is for God to respond appropriately to those who have caused this harm.