Psalms 71:13 Meaning and Explanation
“Let them be confounded and consumed that are adversaries to my soul; let them be covered with reproach and dishonour that seek my hurt.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist prays that his enemies will be shamed and destroyed.
The Context of Psalms 71:13
The psalmist prays for God to bring judgment on his enemies.
What Does Psalms 71:13 Mean?
This imprecatory prayer asks God to reverse the psalmist's shame onto his enemies: they will be 'confounded' (shamed), 'consumed' (destroyed), and 'covered with reproach.' The justice envisioned is poetic: those who plotted shame for another will receive it themselves.
The psalm does not advocate violence but vindicates divine justice. The prayer rests on confidence that God sees and judges rightly. Even in anger, the psalmist defers to God's authority to execute justice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 71:13
What does Psalms 71:13 mean?
The psalmist prays that his enemies will be shamed and destroyed.
What is the context of Psalms 71:13?
The psalmist prays for God to bring judgment on his enemies.