King James Version

What Does Psalms 38:20 Mean?

Psalms 38:20 in the King James Version says “They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 38 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is.”

Psalms 38:20 · KJV

Context

18

For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.

19

But mine enemies are lively, and they are strong: and they that hate me wrongfully are multiplied. are lively: Heb. being living, are strong

20

They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is.

21

Forsake me not, O LORD: O my God, be not far from me.

22

Make haste to help me, O Lord my salvation. to: Heb. for my help

Read Psalms 38 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is. David laments the injustice of receiving evil in return for good. The Hebrew verb "render" (shalam, שָׁלַם) means to repay, recompense, or requite—indicating deliberate, unjust reciprocation. Instead of gratitude for David's kindness, his enemies responded with hostility and opposition.

"Mine adversaries" (satan, שָׂטַן) is the same word later used for Satan the accuser, denoting hostile opponents who actively oppose and accuse. The root meaning is "to oppose" or "to be an adversary." David's enemies weren't merely indifferent but actively antagonistic despite his good treatment of them.

"Because I follow the thing that good is" (radaphi-tov, רָדְפִי־טוֹב) literally means "my pursuing of good." David's commitment to righteousness became the very reason for opposition—a pattern seen throughout Scripture where godliness provokes persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). This verse prophetically points to Christ, who perfectly rendered only good yet received ultimate evil (the cross) in return. Jesus quoted Psalm 35:19 (a parallel passage) in John 15:25, identifying with David's unjust suffering. Believers following Christ must expect similar treatment, returning good for evil as Christ did (Romans 12:17-21, 1 Peter 2:21-23).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Psalm 38 is one of seven penitential psalms, composed during a period of severe physical affliction and social isolation. The superscription "to bring to remembrance" suggests liturgical use for confession and remembrance of sin. David likely wrote this during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18) or another time when physical suffering coincided with betrayal by those he had befriended.

The historical pattern of receiving evil for good marked David's relationships. He spared Saul's life repeatedly, yet Saul pursued him relentlessly. He showed kindness to Mephibosheth (Jonathan's son), yet faced accusation from him. He treated Absalom with paternal mercy, yet Absalom rebelled and sought his death. These experiences of betrayal were preparation for the Messianic King who would perfectly fulfill this pattern.

The early church recognized this psalm as prophetic of Christ's passion. Jesus, who went about doing good and healing all oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38), was rewarded with crucifixion. The religious leaders He came to save became His chief adversaries. This historical-prophetic pattern warns believers: following Christ in doing good guarantees opposition from those who hate the light (John 3:19-20).

Reflection Questions

  1. When have you experienced the pain of receiving evil for good, and how did you respond?
  2. How does Christ's example of suffering unjustly while doing good provide both comfort and a pattern for your response to betrayal?
  3. What does it reveal about human nature that pursuing good often provokes adversaries rather than allies?
  4. How can you guard against bitterness when those you've helped turn against you?
  5. In what ways should this verse shape your expectations in ministry and relationships with unbelievers?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וּמְשַׁלְּמֵ֣י1 of 8

“They also that render”

H7999

to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate

רָ֭עָה2 of 8

“evil”

H7451

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

תַּ֣חַת3 of 8
H8478

the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc

טֽוֹב׃4 of 8

“for good”

H2896

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

יִ֝שְׂטְנ֗וּנִי5 of 8

“are mine adversaries”

H7853

to attack, (figuratively) accuse

תַּ֣חַת6 of 8
H8478

the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc

רָֽדְופִי7 of 8

“because I follow”

H7291

to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)

טֽוֹב׃8 of 8

“for good”

H2896

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

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 38:20 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 38:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 35:12Jeremiah 18:201 John 3:121 Peter 4:14-16John 10:32Psalms 109:3-5

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