King James Version

What Does Psalms 35:1 Mean?

“A Psalm of David. Plead my cause, O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me.”

Context

A Psalm of David. Plead my cause, O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me.

Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help.

Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me: say unto my soul, I am thy salvation.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(1) **Plead my cause.**—Better, *Strive, O Jehovah, with them that strive with me. *The construction requires this, and the parallelism suggests recourse to arms rather than to the law. **Fight.**—Literally, *devour. *(Comp. Numbers 24:8. “He shall eat up the nations.” So a Latin author— “Qua medius pugnæ vorat agmina vortex.” SILIUS: *Punic, *4:230. Comp. Shakespeare— “If the wars eat us not up.’—*Coriolanus, *Acts 1, sc. 1)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 35:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.