Psalms 139:20 Meaning and Explanation
“For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The wicked speak evil against God and misuse His name.
The Context of Psalms 139:20
The psalmist explains why the wicked deserve judgment: they mock God and misuse His name.
What Does Psalms 139:20 Mean?
This verse provides the justification for the previous demand. 'Speak against thee wickedly' indicates deliberate, malicious opposition to God. These are not simple errors or ignorance but conscious rebellion expressed in speech. The specificity of 'against thee' shows that their wickedness is directed at God Himself, making their opposition a matter of cosmic significance, not merely personal.
'Thine enemies take thy name in vain' adds another charge: they misuse God's name—invoking it falsely or with disrespect. Taking God's name in vain can mean swearing falsely by it, invoking it to justify evil, or simply treating it with contempt. The psalmist identifies these wicked ones as God's enemies, creating a clear alliance: he stands with God against those who oppose and mock Him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 139:20
What does Psalms 139:20 mean?
The wicked speak evil against God and misuse His name.
What is the context of Psalms 139:20?
The psalmist explains why the wicked deserve judgment: they mock God and misuse His name.