Psalms 35:13

"They reward me evil for good, to the bereaving of my soul."

Key Reflection

In first-century Israel, this psalm reflects the common experience of those who faced persecution and injustice from their peers. The term "to the bereaving of my soul" (WEB translation) would resonate deeply with the audience, as it conveys a profound emotional and psychological impact, evoking images of loss and heartbreak. For ancient readers, suffering such afflictions was not merely physical but deeply personal and spiritual, highlighting the intense pain and sorrow endured by those who stood firm in their faith despite societal opposition.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

But as for me -The psalmist now contrasts their conduct with his own. He refers to the recollections of his past life, and to the acts of kindness which he had shown to them in thees of trouble, as more deeply marking the evils of their own conduct now. When they were sick -Compare the notes atJob 30:25. It would seem from this that the persons referred to, who now treated him with so much ingratitude, were those with whom he had been formerly intimately associated, or whom he had regarded as his personal friends, since it cannot be supposed that this deep sympathy would have been shown for those who were altogether strangers to him.

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