Psalms 41:5
Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish?
Original Language Analysis
מָתַ֥י
H4970
מָתַ֥י
Strong's:
H4970
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, extent (of time); but used only adverbially (especially with other particle prefixes), when (either relative or interrogative)
יָ֝מ֗וּת
of me When shall he die
H4191
יָ֝מ֗וּת
of me When shall he die
Strong's:
H4191
Word #:
6 of 8
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
Cross References
Proverbs 10:7The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.Psalms 38:12They also that seek after my life lay snares for me: and they that seek my hurt speak mischievous things, and imagine deceits all the day long.Psalms 102:8Mine enemies reproach me all the day; and they that are mad against me are sworn against me.Job 20:7Yet he shall perish for ever like his own dung: they which have seen him shall say, Where is he?
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the continuation of one's name through descendants and remembered deeds constituted a form of immortality. Enemies wishing the perishing of David's name sought to erase him from history entirely.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is the desire for someone's 'name to perish' particularly malicious?
- How does God's promise to establish David's throne forever (2 Samuel 7) answer this threat?
Analysis & Commentary
David's enemies speak 'evil' against him, asking 'When shall he die, and his name perish?' This represents the deepest form of hostility--not merely wishing harm but desiring complete obliteration, including the memory of David's existence. The Hebrew shem (name) encompasses reputation, legacy, and continuing influence.