King James Version

What Does Psalms 13:4 Mean?

Psalms 13:4 in the King James Version says “Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved.”

Psalms 13:4 · KJV

Context

2

How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me?

3

Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;

4

Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved.

5

But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.

6

I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.

Read Psalms 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
David fears two outcomes if he falls: his enemy will say 'I have prevailed,' and his foes will rejoice. This reveals proper concern for God's glory—David's defeat would give God's enemies occasion to boast. The Hebrew 'yakol' (prevail) suggests overpowering strength. This anticipates Christ's concern that His Father's name be glorified even in suffering (John 12:28). Reformed theology sees our vindication as ultimately about God's honor.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Written during David's flight from Saul or Absalom, when his defeat would have been interpreted as God's rejection of His anointed king.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does your spiritual struggle affect God's reputation among unbelievers?
  2. In what ways do you prioritize God's glory over your own vindication?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
פֶּן1 of 8
H6435

properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest

יֹאמַ֣ר2 of 8

“say”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

אֹיְבִ֣י3 of 8

“Lest mine enemy”

H341

hating; an adversary

יְכָלְתִּ֑יו4 of 8

“I have prevailed”

H3201

to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

צָרַ֥י5 of 8

“against him and those that trouble”

H6862

a pebble (as in h6864)

יָ֝גִ֗ילוּ6 of 8

“me rejoice”

H1523

properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear

כִּ֣י7 of 8
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אֶמּֽוֹט׃8 of 8

“when I am moved”

H4131

to waver; by implication, to slip, shake, fall

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 13:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 13:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 25:2Jeremiah 1:19Proverbs 12:3Psalms 62:6Joshua 7:9Lamentations 1:16

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Psalms 13 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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