Meaning of Psalms 69:21

This verse from Psalm 69:21 is a poignant expression of suffering and betrayal, vividly portraying the psalmist's experience of being given bitter substances instead of nourishment and relief. The "gall" (often translated as rosh, meaning bitterness or poison) and "vinegar" (chometz, a sour, fermented drink, often diluted wine or barley water) were not merely unpleasant tastes but symbolized the deep malice and cruelty directed towards the psalmist. This is not simply a lament about physical discomfort; it's a metaphor for the profound emotional and spiritual anguish caused by the actions of his enemies. The psalmist is experiencing the ultimate form of rejection and torment, where even basic sustenance is poisoned, reflecting a deliberate intent to harm and degrade.

Context and Background

Psalm 69 is a psalm of lament, attributed to David, though some scholars suggest it could be a composite psalm or prophetic in nature, looking forward to the suffering of the Messiah. The psalmist is depicted as being in deep distress, surrounded by enemies who falsely accuse him, rejoice in his downfall, and actively seek to harm him. The specific imagery of gall and vinegar arises in the context of the psalmist's overwhelming sorrow and the active persecution he faces. He feels abandoned by God and attacked by men, leading to this graphic description of the cruel treatment he endures.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary themes are suffering, betrayal, and injustice. The verse highlights the depth of human cruelty, where even the most basic needs are met with malicious intent. It speaks to the experience of being wronged and reviled by those who should offer comfort or at least neutrality. The intentionality of the act – "they put" and "they gave" – underscores a deliberate campaign of torment. Furthermore, it conveys a sense of desolation and abandonment, as the psalmist's suffering is met with hostility rather than compassion.

Spiritual Significance and Application

From a spiritual perspective, this verse can be understood as a foreshadowing of the suffering of Jesus Christ. Christians interpret this passage as a prophecy fulfilled in the crucifixion, where Jesus was offered vinegar mixed with gall (or myrrh) while on the cross (Matthew 27:34). This imbues the verse with profound theological significance, illustrating the suffering servant who endured immense pain and rejection for the redemption of humanity. For believers, it offers comfort in knowing that God understands suffering and that even the deepest betrayals can be part of a larger redemptive plan. It calls for empathy towards those who are suffering unjustly and a commitment to offer genuine relief and kindness, contrasting with the actions described in the psalm.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is a crucial link in the biblical narrative of suffering and redemption. It exemplifies the consistent theme of God's people facing opposition and persecution, from the early patriarchs to the prophets and ultimately to Jesus. The suffering described here is not presented as an end in itself but as a part of a journey that often leads to vindication or a greater purpose. In the New Testament, the suffering of Christ, as anticipated in the Psalms, becomes the central redemptive act, demonstrating God's ultimate victory over suffering and death. This psalm, therefore, serves as a bridge between the Old Testament's portrayal of hardship and the New Testament's revelation of God's ultimate plan of salvation through suffering.

Analogies

One analogy for this experience is a person facing a severe illness and instead of receiving medicine or comfort from their caregivers, they are given something that exacerbates their pain. Imagine being extremely thirsty in a desert and being offered a drink that is not only unrefreshing but actively dehydrates you further. Another analogy could be a political dissident who, after being unjustly imprisoned, is denied basic necessities and instead given harmful substances, symbolizing the state's complete disregard for their well-being and dignity.

Relation to Other Verses

• Matthew 27:34: This verse is the most direct New Testament parallel, explicitly stating that Jesus was offered wine mixed with gall (or vinegar and gall) and refused it. This highlights the fulfillment of prophetic suffering.
• Psalm 22:15: "My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue cleaves to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death." This psalm also describes profound physical suffering and abandonment, echoing the sentiments of Psalm 69.
• Isaiah 53:5: "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed." This prophetic passage describes the suffering servant whose pain leads to healing and peace, aligning with the redemptive interpretation of Psalm 69.
• John 19:29: "When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, 'It is finished,' and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit." This verse directly links the offering of vinegar to Jesus' final moments, connecting the Old Testament lament to the New Testament salvific act.