Psalms 79:12

12 Lord, pay the other nations back seven times for all the insults they have hurled at you.

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 ask us, "Where is your God?" Let us see you punish the nations for shedding the blood of your servants.
11 Listen to the groans of the prisoners, and by your great power free those who are condemned to die.
12 Lord, pay the other nations back seven times for all the insults they have hurled at you.
13 Then we, your people, the sheep of your flock, will thank you forever and praise you for all time to come.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.