King James Version
Psalms 54:3 in the King James Version says “For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 54 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.”
Psalms 54:3 · KJV
To the chief Musician on Neginoth, Maschil, A Psalm of David, when the Ziphims came and said to Saul, Doth not David hide himself with us? Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength.
Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth.
For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.
Behold, God is mine helper: the Lord is with them that uphold my soul.
He shall reward evil unto mine enemies: cut them off in thy truth. mine: Heb. those that observe me
KJV Study — Public Domain
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“For strangers”
H2114to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery
“are risen up”
H6965to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“seek”
H1245to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
“after my soul”
H5315properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“they have not set”
H7760to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
“God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
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.
Psalms 54:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 54:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge