Psalms 35:6

Authorized King James Version

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Let their way be dark and slippery: and let the angel of the LORD persecute them.

Original Language Analysis

יְֽהִי H1961
יְֽהִי
Strong's: H1961
Word #: 1 of 7
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
דַרְכָּ֗ם Let their way H1870
דַרְכָּ֗ם Let their way
Strong's: H1870
Word #: 2 of 7
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
חֹ֥שֶׁךְ be dark H2822
חֹ֥שֶׁךְ be dark
Strong's: H2822
Word #: 3 of 7
the dark; hence (literally) darkness; figuratively, misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness
וַֽחֲלַקְלַקֹּ֑ת and slippery H2519
וַֽחֲלַקְלַקֹּ֑ת and slippery
Strong's: H2519
Word #: 4 of 7
properly, something very smooth; i.e., a treacherous spot; figuratively, blandishment
וּמַלְאַ֥ךְ and let the angel H4397
וּמַלְאַ֥ךְ and let the angel
Strong's: H4397
Word #: 5 of 7
a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
יְ֝הוָ֗ה of the LORD H3068
יְ֝הוָ֗ה of the LORD
Strong's: H3068
Word #: 6 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
רֹדְפָֽם׃ persecute H7291
רֹדְפָֽם׃ persecute
Strong's: H7291
Word #: 7 of 7
to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)

Analysis & Commentary

Darkness and slipperiness combined create the image of complete disorientation and helplessness. The Hebrew 'chalaqlaqqot' (slippery) intensifies the danger—enemies cannot find sure footing for escape or counterattack. God's judgment isn't merely punitive but ensures evildoers experience the insecurity they inflicted on others, fulfilling the principle that 'the wicked are trapped by their own deeds' (Psalm 9:16).

Historical Context

Ancient Palestinian roads could be treacherous, especially in rainy seasons. Darkness without lamp or moonlight made travel hazardous, so this metaphor captured genuine fear of being caught in hostile conditions.

Questions for Reflection