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Psalms 109:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Because that he remembered not to shew mercy, but persecuted the poor and needy man, that he might even slay the broken in heart.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Because he never remembered to show mercy, but instead persecuted the poor and needy, and even tried to kill those who were brokenhearted.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The writer is describing someone who was cruel and merciless, especially targeting vulnerable people like the poor and brokenhearted.

📚 Historical Context

This psalm is attributed to David and appears to be written about a specific enemy who had betrayed him with false accusations and malicious attacks. The verse describes the character of this adversary, showing how he deliberately chose cruelty over compassion. In ancient Israel, showing mercy to the poor and vulnerable was considered a fundamental duty, making this person's actions particularly heinous.

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