Psalm 109:6

Set over him a wicked man; let an accuser stand at his right hand.

Study Bible

Appoint
The word "appoint" in this context is a call for divine intervention. In Hebrew, the root word is "פָּקַד" (paqad), which often means to set or establish. This term is used in the Old Testament to denote God's sovereign authority to assign roles or judgments. The psalmist is invoking God's power to establish a course of action, reflecting a deep trust in God's ultimate justice and governance over human affairs.

an evil man
The phrase "an evil man" is translated from the Hebrew "רָשָׁע" (rasha), which denotes someone who is morally wrong or wicked. In the biblical context, this term is often used to describe those who are in opposition to God's will and righteousness. The psalmist's plea here is for a person who embodies wickedness to be set against his adversary, highlighting the severity of the situation and the need for divine retribution against those who perpetrate evil.

to oppose him
"To oppose him" suggests a confrontation or adversarial stance. The Hebrew root "שָׂטַן" (satan) is used here, which means to act as an adversary or accuser. This is the same root from which the name "Satan" is derived, indicating a role of opposition. The psalmist is calling for a forceful counteraction against his enemy, emphasizing the need for justice and the hope that God will raise up someone to challenge the wrongdoer.

let an accuser
The term "accuser" is again linked to the Hebrew "שָׂטַן" (satan), reinforcing the idea of an adversary or one who brings charges against another. In the ancient Near Eastern context, an accuser would be someone who stands in a legal or moral position to challenge or bring to light the wrongs of another. This reflects the psalmist's desire for accountability and exposure of the enemy's misdeeds.

stand at his right hand
The phrase "stand at his right hand" is significant in biblical literature. The right hand is traditionally a place of honor and power, but here it is used to denote a position of accusation or judgment. In ancient court settings, the accuser would stand at the right hand of the accused, ready to present the case against them. This imagery underscores the psalmist's plea for a decisive and authoritative judgment against his adversary, trusting that God will orchestrate justice in a manner that is both visible and undeniable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 109, David is expressing a deep cry for justice against his adversaries. This psalm is often categorized as an imprecatory psalm, where the psalmist calls for God's judgment on his enemies.

2. Adversaries
The psalm speaks of those who have wronged David, possibly referring to specific individuals or a general group of enemies who have falsely accused or betrayed him.

3. Accuser
The Hebrew word used here is "satan," which means adversary or accuser. This term can refer to a human accuser or, in a broader sense, to spiritual opposition.

4. Right Hand
In biblical terms, the right hand is often a place of honor or power. Here, it is ironically the position of the accuser, indicating a place of influence or authority in the judicial process.

5. Judicial Imagery
The verse uses courtroom language, suggesting a legal setting where accusations are made, and justice is sought.

Teaching Points

Understanding Imprecatory Psalms
These psalms express raw human emotions and a desire for justice. They remind us that we can bring our deepest hurts and desires for justice to God.

The Role of the Accuser
Recognize the spiritual battle and the role of the accuser in our lives. We must be vigilant and rely on God's protection and justice.

Seeking God's Justice
While it is natural to desire justice, we must trust in God's timing and methods, knowing that He is the ultimate judge.

Responding to Adversaries
Reflect on Jesus' teachings to love and pray for our enemies, seeking to overcome evil with good.

The Power of Prayer
Use prayer as a means to process emotions and seek God's intervention in situations of injustice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the context of David's life help us interpret Psalm 109:6?

2. In what ways can we relate the role of the accuser in this psalm to spiritual battles we face today?

3. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament challenge or complement the imprecatory nature of Psalm 109?

4. What practical steps can we take to leave vengeance to God and trust in His justice?

5. How can we use prayer to process our emotions and seek God's guidance when dealing with adversaries?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Job 1:6-12
The role of Satan as an accuser is evident in the heavenly court scene, where he challenges Job's righteousness.

Zechariah 3:1-2
Joshua the high priest stands before the angel of the Lord, with Satan at his right hand to accuse him, illustrating the adversarial role.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies contrasts with the imprecatory nature of Psalm 109, offering a New Testament perspective on dealing with adversaries.

Romans 12:19
Paul advises believers to leave vengeance to God, aligning with the psalmist's appeal for divine justice.