Exegetical Brief: Psalm 69:22 - They Gave Me Gall

Abstract

John F. Brug examines Psalm 69:22, which prophesies that the suffering Messiah would be given gall and vinegar. He explores the Hebrew terms ראֹשׁ (rosh) and חֹמֶץ (chometz), noting that rosh may refer to a bitter substance rather than a poison. Brug compares Old Testament usage and New Testament fulfillment, especially in Matthew 27:34 and Mark 15:23, where Jesus is offered wine mixed with gall or myrrh. He argues that Matthew uses “gall” to highlight the connection to Psalm 69, while Mark describes the literal ingredient. Jesus’ refusal of the drink reflects the mockery and lack of sympathy described in the psalm. Brug concludes that Psalm 69:22 is a direct Messianic prophecy, not merely a reflection of David’s experience. The bitter drink symbolizes the depth of Christ’s suffering and the fulfillment of Scripture in the passion narratives. Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).