Psalms 22:6
What does Psalms 22:6 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 22:6 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 22:6 means
In stark contrast to God's past faithfulness, the psalmist now describes his current state as utterly debased and dehumanized. He sees himself as a mere "worm," a creature of no value or standing among humanity, subjected to the contempt and scorn of others. This vivid self-description emphasizes his extreme vulnerability and the deep humiliation he experiences, highlighting the vast chasm between God's past acts of deliverance and his present suffering.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000But I am a worm, and no man; A reproach of men, and despised of the people.
KJV
King James Version · 1611But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901But I am a worm, and no man; A reproach of men, and despised of the people.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But I am a worm and not a man; cursed by men, and looked down on by the people.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And I <FI>am<Fi> a worm, and no man, A reproach of man, and despised of the people.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And thy mercy will follow me all the days of my life. And that I may dwell in the house of the Lord unto length of days.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and the despised of the people.
Context
Following the affirmation of God's past faithfulness to the patriarchs in verses 4-5, this verse marks a dramatic return to the psalmist's present, agonizing reality. He contrasts God's glorious past with his current, deeply abased condition, making his suffering all the more poignant against the backdrop of divine power. This vivid description deepens the reader's understanding of his lament.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Isaiah 41:14
Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith Jehovah, and thy Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.
- Matthew 27:20
Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
- Psalms 31:11
Because of all mine adversaries I am become a reproach, Yea, unto my neighbors exceedingly, And a fear to mine acquaintance: They that did see me without fled from me.
- Matthew 11:19
The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold, a gluttonous man and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners! And wisdom is justified by her works.
- Psalms 88:8
Thou hast put mine acquaintance far from me; Thou hast made me an abomination unto them: I am shut up, and I cannot come forth.
- John 8:48
The Jews answered and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a demon?
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