Psalms 35:7

"Let their way be dark and slippery, the LORD’s angel pursuing them."

Key Reflection

Psalms 35:7 vividly portrays a dire fate for those who maliciously persecute the psalmist without cause. The imagery of their way being "dark and slippery" suggests that these enemies will wander in confusion, unable to see where they are going or avoid pitfalls. This darkness and treacherous path represent both physical entrapment and moral blindness. Moreover, the mention of "the LORD’s angel pursuing them" indicates divine retribution, ensuring that their evil deeds will catch up with them, much like an angel would relentlessly pursue a fleeing enemy in battle. This verse encapsulates a powerful message of justice and warns adversaries about the consequences of their actions.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

For without cause have they hid for me their net in a pit -SeePsalms 7:15, note;Psalms 9:15, note. This figure is derived from hunting. The idea is that of digging a pit or hole for a wild beast to fall into, with a net so concealed that the animal could not see it, and that might be suddenly drawn over him so as to secure him. The reference here is to plans that are laid to entrap and ruin others: plots that are concocted so as to secure destruction before one is aware. The psalmist says that, in his case, they had done this without “cause,” or without any sufficient reason. He had done them no wrong; he had given them no show of excuse for their conduct.

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