Psalms 69:11

“I made sackcloth also my garment; and I became a proverb to them.”

Context:Psalm 69 is a lament written by David. It expresses his anguish and distress in the face of persecution and enemies. The psalm is often considered a Messianic psalm, as some of its verses are seen as foreshadowing the suffering of Jesus Christ.

Sackcloth:The mention of sackcloth in this verse refers to a coarse, rough cloth made from goat’s hair or other similar materials. It was often worn as a symbol of mourning, repentance, or distress in biblical times. David metaphorically describes his state of affliction and mourning by saying that he made sackcloth his garment. It signifies his deep sorrow and suffering.

Becoming a Proverb:The latter part of the verse states that David became a proverb to the people. This means that his situation and suffering became a subject of mockery, scorn, or derision among those who observed him. David’s enemies used his suffering as an occasion to ridicule him and treat him as a proverbial example of disgrace or misfortune.

Messianic Significance:While this psalm initially expresses David’s personal anguish, it also has Messianic implications. Several verses in Psalm 69 find fulfillment in the life and suffering of Jesus Christ. The verse we are studying, Psalm 69:11, can be seen as pointing to the mockery and scorn Jesus endured during His crucifixion. Jesus, the ultimate suffering servant, was derided and ridiculed by the people while He bore the weight of our sins on the cross.