Psalms 59:14
And at evening let them return; and let them make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.
Original Language Analysis
וְיָשֻׁ֣בוּ
let them return
H7725
וְיָשֻׁ֣בוּ
let them return
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
1 of 6
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
יֶהֱמ֥וּ
and let them make a noise
H1993
יֶהֱמ֥וּ
and let them make a noise
Strong's:
H1993
Word #:
3 of 6
to make a loud sound (like english 'hum'); by implication, to be in great commotion or tumult, to rage, war, moan, clamor
Historical 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.
Questions for Reflection
- How does repeated threat test and develop faith differently than single crises?
- What does persistent opposition that God restrains from succeeding teach about divine providence?
Analysis & 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.