Psalms 35:12

Authorized King James Version

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They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul.

Original Language Analysis

יְשַׁלְּמ֣וּנִי They rewarded H7999
יְשַׁלְּמ֣וּנִי They rewarded
Strong's: H7999
Word #: 1 of 6
to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate
רָ֭עָה me evil H7451
רָ֭עָה me evil
Strong's: H7451
Word #: 2 of 6
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
תַּ֥חַת H8478
תַּ֥חַת
Strong's: H8478
Word #: 3 of 6
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
טוֹבָ֗ה for good H2896
טוֹבָ֗ה for good
Strong's: H2896
Word #: 4 of 6
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
שְׁכ֣וֹל to the spoiling H7908
שְׁכ֣וֹל to the spoiling
Strong's: H7908
Word #: 5 of 6
bereavement
לְנַפְשִֽׁי׃ of my soul H5315
לְנַפְשִֽׁי׃ of my soul
Strong's: H5315
Word #: 6 of 6
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

Analysis & Commentary

The principle of returning evil for good violates natural justice and covenant loyalty (Hebrew 'chesed'). The phrase 'spoiling of my soul' indicates the devastating spiritual impact of betrayal—it depletes inner vitality and trust. This experience typologically points to Judas's betrayal of Christ, who received evil for good. Romans 12:21 reverses this dynamic: 'Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.'

Historical Context

David likely references specific betrayals, possibly during Saul's court when servants turned against him despite his loyal service, or during Absalom's conspiracy when former allies became enemies.

Questions for Reflection