Psalms 68:21 Meaning and Explanation
“But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God will wound the heads of his enemies, especially those obstinate in sin.
The Context of Psalms 68:21
Divine judgment on enemies who persist in sin.
What Does Psalms 68:21 Mean?
After the promise of salvation and life, the verse returns to the fate of enemies and the unrepentant. Wounding 'the head' and the 'hairy scalp' are vivid images of destroying one's enemies, couched in ancient warfare language. The phrase 'such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses' specifies: those who persist in rebellion against God face judgment.
The verse emphasizes that opposing God and continuing in sin are incompatible with God's rule. The contrast is sharp: salvation for the covenant people, wounding for those who remain hostile and unrepentant. The repetition and emphasis on the head suggest that these are identified, known enemies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 68:21
What does Psalms 68:21 mean?
God will wound the heads of his enemies, especially those obstinate in sin.
What is the context of Psalms 68:21?
Divine judgment on enemies who persist in sin.