King James Version

What Does Psalms 25:19 Mean?

Psalms 25:19 in the King James Version says “Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred. cruel: Heb. hatred of violence — study this verse from Psalms chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred. cruel: Heb. hatred of violence

Psalms 25:19 · KJV


Context

17

The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses.

18

Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins.

19

Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred. cruel: Heb. hatred of violence

20

O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee.

21

Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The observation 'Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred' asks God to notice the opposition's quantity and quality. Enemies are 'many' and their hatred is 'cruel' (Hebrew: chamas, violent/ruthless). This prayer acknowledges human helplessness against overwhelming opposition. Reformed theology emphasizes that spiritual warfare requires divine intervention—human resources fail against satanic and human evil. Asking God to 'consider' appeals to His omniscience and justice.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

David faced constant threats—Saul's pursuit, Absalom's rebellion, foreign armies. Outnumbered and outmatched, he learned to cry to God rather than rely on military might. This pattern sustained Israel through centuries of persecution.

Reflection Questions

  1. Who or what are the 'many enemies' opposing your faith today?
  2. How does bringing overwhelming opposition to God's attention provide relief?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
רְאֵֽה1 of 7

Consider

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֹיְבַ֥י2 of 7

mine enemies

H341

hating; an adversary

כִּי3 of 7
H3588

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

רָ֑בּוּ4 of 7

for they are many

H7231

properly, to cast together , i.e., increase, especially in number; to multiply by the myriad

וְשִׂנְאַ֖ת5 of 7

and they hate

H8130

to hate (personally)

חָמָ֣ס6 of 7

me with cruel

H2555

violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain

שְׂנֵאֽוּנִי׃7 of 7

hatred

H8135

hate


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 25:19 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 25:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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