Psalms 69:21 (KJV)

What does Psalms 69:21 mean?

Psalms 69:21 describes a moment of deep suffering, where the speaker says he was given bitter "gall" for food and sour "vinegar" to drink when he was hungry and thirsty. The verse uses these images to show how, instead of comfort or help, the speaker received cruelty and mockery from others.

In this psalm, David is speaking, describing his distress and how his enemies treat him harshly during his time of need. The verse paints a vivid picture of rejection and mistreatment, using the giving of "gall" and "vinegar" as symbols for the way he is wronged. This language connects to the larger theme of the psalm, where David pours out his pain and sense of abandonment to God.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 69:21

• "Gall" (רֹאשׁ, rosh): This word refers to a bitter or poisonous plant, often used as a symbol for something harsh or deadly. Here, it emphasizes the bitterness of what David receives instead of real food.
• "Vinegar" (חֹמֶץ, chomets): This word means sour wine or vinegar, a cheap and unpleasant drink. It highlights the insult of being given something undrinkable when truly thirsty.
• "Meat" (בְּרוֹת, berot): This word means food or bread, not just meat. The contrast is between expected nourishment and what is actually given.
• "Thirst" (צָמָא, tsama): This word simply means thirst, underlining the speaker’s genuine need that is met with contempt.

Why Psalms 69:21 matters

• This verse helps clarify that the speaker’s suffering is not just physical but also emotional, as he is mocked and mistreated when most vulnerable.
• The specific mention of "gall" and "vinegar" connects this verse to later biblical events, especially the suffering of Jesus in the New Testament, deepening its significance for many readers.
• Understanding the original words shows that the verse is about more than just literal food and drink—it’s about being rejected and scorned in a time of real need.