Psalms 68:21
But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.
Psalms 68:21 · King James Version
Meaning
Psalm 68:21 speaks of God's power and authority over his enemies. The verse metaphorically describes God as wounding the head of his enemies and their hairy scalps, emphasizing his ability to defeat those who continue in their sinful ways. This imagery signifies the ultimate triumph of good over evil, as God is portrayed as victorious over those who persist in their wrongdoing. The verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, highlighting the consequences that await those who choose to walk in disobedience. It reflects the belief that no one can oppose God and escape unscathed, as his judgment will eventually come upon those who refuse to turn from their sins. Overall, this verse conveys the message of God's righteousness and his eventual punishment for those who persist in their trespasses.
Theological Overview
The verse "But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses." can be interpreted theologically as a declaration of God's judgment upon those who continue to persist in their sinful ways. The "head of his enemies" symbolizes the ultimate defeat and destruction of those who oppose God and His righteousness. The phrase "hairy scalp" may signify the pride and arrogance of those who rebel against God, as hair often symbolizes strength and glory in the Bible. The word "trespasses" refers to willful sins or transgressions against God's commands. The image presented in this verse underscores the severity of God's judgment on unrepentant sinners and serves as a reminder of the consequences of persisting in disobedience to His will.
Psalms 68:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
But God will smite through the head of his enemies, The hairy scalp of such a one as goeth on still in his guiltiness.
World English Bible
But God will strike through the head of his enemies, the hairy scalp of such a one as still continues in his guiltiness.
Douay-Rheims
In thy sight are all they that afflict me; my heart hath expected reproach and misery. And I looked for one that would grieve together with me, but there was none: and for one that would comfort me, and I found none.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Surely God will wound the head of his enemies, and the hearie pate of him that walketh in his sinnes.