What is the meaning of Psalm 109:29? May my accusers • David speaks of real people who twisted truth and plotted his ruin (Psalm 35:11; Psalm 38:19–20). • The verse assumes God sees false accusation as sin and will act in justice (Deuteronomy 19:16–19; Revelation 12:10 shows Satan as the ultimate accuser). • For believers, this reminds us that opposition for righteousness’ sake is neither surprising nor unnoticed (Matthew 5:11–12). be clothed with disgrace • “be clothed” pictures disgrace wrapping the wicked so completely it is visible to all, reversing the honor they sought (Job 8:22; Psalm 35:26). • God often turns an enemy’s weapon back on his own head; those who sow dishonor reap dishonor (Proverbs 26:27; Esther 7:10). • This is a call for God’s public vindication of the righteous and exposure of evil (Psalm 37:6). may they wear their shame • Shame is not momentary embarrassment but enduring humiliation before God and people (Jeremiah 13:26; Daniel 12:2). • “wear” indicates continual identity—what they tried to hide becomes what defines them (Psalm 132:18). • In contrast, believers are promised garments of salvation and righteousness (Isaiah 61:10), showing the stark difference between those who trust God and those who oppose Him. like a robe • A robe was an outer garment, the first thing others noticed; so their shame becomes obvious and unavoidable (Psalm 73:6, negative use of clothing imagery). • The picture echoes other imprecatory passages where God clothes the wicked with dishonor while clothing His people with joy (Psalm 30:11). • New Testament believers are urged to “clothe yourselves with humility” (1 Peter 5:5); refusing that humility leads to the very shame David describes. summary Psalm 109:29 is David’s Spirit-inspired plea that God let false accusers experience the very disgrace they intended for him. He asks the Lord to make their shame public, comprehensive, and lasting—“clothing” them so no one can miss the justice of God. For us, the verse reinforces that the righteous need not seek revenge; the Lord will vindicate His people, expose deceit, and ensure every unrepentant accuser finally wears the disgrace he or she has earned. |