Psalms 55:3
Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me.
Original Language Analysis
מִפְּנֵ֣י
because
H6440
מִפְּנֵ֣י
because
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
3 of 11
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
רָשָׁ֑ע
of the wicked
H7563
רָשָׁ֑ע
of the wicked
Strong's:
H7563
Word #:
5 of 11
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
6 of 11
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יָמִ֥יטוּ
for they cast
H4131
יָמִ֥יטוּ
for they cast
Strong's:
H4131
Word #:
7 of 11
to waver; by implication, to slip, shake, fall
עָלַ֥י
H5921
עָלַ֥י
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
8 of 11
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
אָ֝֗וֶן
iniquity
H205
אָ֝֗וֶן
iniquity
Strong's:
H205
Word #:
9 of 11
strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol
Historical Context
Absalom's rebellion involved widespread slander against David, accusations that he had failed as king and father. The 'voice of the enemy' was heard throughout Israel.
Questions for Reflection
- How does enemy speech function as a form of oppression?
- What does 'casting iniquity' upon someone look like in practice?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The source of distress: 'Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me.' Enemy voices, wicked oppression, false accusations, and wrathful hatred combine to overwhelm. 'Cast iniquity upon me' suggests false charges or plotting evil against him.