King James Version

What Does Psalms 59:14 Mean?

Psalms 59:14 in the King James Version says “And at evening let them return; and let them make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 59 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And at evening let them return; and let them make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.”

Psalms 59:14 · KJV

Context

12

For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.

13

Consume them in wrath, consume them, that they may not be: and let them know that God ruleth in Jacob unto the ends of the earth. Selah.

14

And at evening let them return; and let them make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.

15

Let them wander up and down for meat, and grudge if they be not satisfied. for meat: Heb. to eat and grudge: or, if they be not satisfied, then they will stay all night

16

But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.

Read Psalms 59 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The repetition of verse 6's imagery creates refrain structure, emphasizing the persistent threat. Yet now this description appears after affirmations of God's sovereignty (vv. 8-13), suggesting confidence that their threatening returns will prove futile. The psalmist observes rather than fears their circling.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The repetition reflects actual repeated harassment—Saul's men returned multiple nights, requiring David's continued vigilance. This pattern of persistent but ultimately futile opposition became characteristic of David's experience.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does repeated threat test and develop faith differently than single crises?
  2. What does persistent opposition that God restrains from succeeding teach about divine providence?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וְיָשֻׁ֣בוּ1 of 6

“let them return”

H7725

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

לָ֭עֶרֶב2 of 6

“And at evening”

H6153

dusk

יֶהֱמ֥וּ3 of 6

“and let them make a noise”

H1993

to make a loud sound (like english 'hum'); by implication, to be in great commotion or tumult, to rage, war, moan, clamor

כַכָּ֗לֶב4 of 6

“like a dog”

H3611

a dog; hence (by euphemism) a male prostitute

וִיס֥וֹבְבוּ5 of 6

“and go round about”

H5437

to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively

עִֽיר׃6 of 6

“the city”

H5892

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

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 59:14 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 59:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 22:16Psalms 59:6

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