Psalms 22:6 (KJV)

What does Psalms 22:6 mean?

Psalms 22:6 describes the speaker feeling utterly worthless and rejected, comparing himself to a worm rather than a man, and saying he is scorned and despised by others. The verse expresses deep humiliation and a sense of being looked down on by people.

In this psalm, David is the one speaking, pouring out his feelings of abandonment and shame during a time of great distress. The language paints a vivid picture of someone who feels not just ignored but actively shamed and dehumanized by those around him. This verse sets the tone for the rest of the psalm, which continues to explore themes of suffering and isolation.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 22:6

• "worm" (תּוֹלַעַת, tolaʿat): This word refers to a lowly creature, often seen as insignificant or even repulsive. By calling himself a "worm," David is emphasizing how far he feels from being respected or valued.
• "man" (אִישׁ, ish): This word usually means a person of standing or dignity. The contrast between "worm" and "man" highlights the depth of the speaker’s humiliation.
• "reproach" (חֶרְפָּה, cherpah): This term means shame or disgrace. It shows that the speaker is not just ignored but is actively mocked or shamed by others.
• "men" (אָדָם, adam): This is the general word for humanity, emphasizing that the rejection is coming from people in general, not just a specific group.
• "despised" (בָּזָה, bazah): This word means to be held in contempt or considered worthless. It underlines the intensity of the rejection.
• "people" (עָם, am): This refers to the broader community or nation, suggesting the speaker feels isolated from everyone around him.

Why Psalms 22:6 matters

• Psalms 22:6 clarifies the depth of the speaker’s suffering, showing it is not just physical or emotional pain, but also social humiliation and rejection.
• The verse helps readers understand the intensity of David’s feelings and sets up the psalm’s themes of abandonment and hope for deliverance.
• This verse is often connected to later verses in the psalm that are seen as foreshadowing the suffering of Jesus, making it significant in both Jewish and Christian readings.