Psalms 79:12

12 Pay back our neighbors seven times over, right where it hurts, for the insults they used on you, Lord.

Psalms 79:12 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 79:12

And render unto our neighbours seven fold into their bosom,
ec.] Not seven fold for one, as the Targum paraphrases it, or a seven fold punishment for one sin; but that he would recompense their sins, or punish for them, and take vengeance on them, largely, abundantly, though not beyond measure, or exceeding the rules of justice; see ( Genesis 4:15 ) ( Luke 6:38 ) ,

the reproach with which they have reproached thee, O Lord;
by denying his being, or calling in question his perfections of power, truth, and goodness, to help his people; speaking ill of his providence, despising his word and ordinances, and even reproaching his people in reproaching him, ( Psalms 89:50 Psalms 89:51 ) , and this is what a righteous recompence is desired for; see ( Lamentations 3:64 ) .

Psalms 79:12 In-Context

10 Why should the nations say, "Where's their God now?" Let vengeance for the spilled blood of your servants be known among the nations before our very eyes!

11 Let the prisoners' groaning reach you. With your powerful arm spare those who are destined to die.

12 Pay back our neighbors seven times over, right where it hurts, for the insults they used on you, Lord.

13 We are, after all, your people and the sheep of your very own pasture. We will give you thanks forever; we will proclaim your praises from one generation to the next.