Psalms 71:24 (KJV)

What does Psalms 71:24 mean?

Psalms 71:24 describes the psalmist’s commitment to speak about God’s righteousness all day long, because those who tried to harm him have ended up confused and ashamed. The verse shows a contrast between the psalmist’s praise and the defeat of his enemies.

The speaker is an older person, likely David, reflecting on a lifetime of trusting God. He promises to keep talking about God’s righteousness (God’s just and faithful character) because those who wanted to hurt him have failed. This verse wraps up a prayer for help by focusing on praise and the reversal of fortunes for those who opposed the psalmist.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 71:24

• "Tongue" (לָשׁוֹן, lashon) refers to speech or language, emphasizing the psalmist’s active role in declaring God’s character.
• "Talk" (הָגָה, hagah) often means to meditate or mutter, suggesting the psalmist is not just speaking once but continually reflecting on and speaking about God’s righteousness.
• "Righteousness" (צְדָקָה, tsedaqah) points to God’s justice, faithfulness, and moral uprightness, which is the main subject of the psalmist’s praise.
• "Confounded" (בּוּשׁ, bosh) and "shame" (חָפֵר, chapher) both describe deep embarrassment or disgrace, highlighting the complete reversal experienced by those who sought the psalmist’s harm.

Why Psalms 71:24 matters

• This verse clarifies that the psalmist’s praise is not just a private feeling but something spoken out loud, even when facing opposition.
• The focus on God’s righteousness as the main topic of speech shows what the psalmist values most in his relationship with God.
• The verse connects the psalmist’s personal deliverance to a public declaration, tying together prayer, praise, and the visible outcome of God’s intervention.