Psalms 59:6
They return at evening: they make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.
Original Language Analysis
יָשׁ֣וּבוּ
They return
H7725
יָשׁ֣וּבוּ
They 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
they make a noise
H1993
יֶהֱמ֥וּ
they 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
Cross References
Psalms 59:14And at evening let them return; and let them make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.1 Samuel 19:11Saul also sent messengers unto David's house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and Michal David's wife told him, saying, If thou save not thy life to night, to morrow thou shalt be slain.
Historical Context
Wild and semi-wild dogs roamed ancient cities as scavengers, becoming aggressive at night. Saul's men repeatedly watching David's movements (1 Samuel 19:11) resembled such persistent, threatening circling.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the 'dog' imagery reveal about the nature of persistent enemies?
- How should Christians respond to those who persistently oppose God's purposes?
Analysis & Commentary
The imagery of enemies as dogs 'that return at evening' depicts scavengers emboldened by darkness. Dogs in ancient Israel were unclean scavengers, not pets, making this a degrading comparison. 'Grin' (Hebrew 'hamah'—growl/moan) captures their menacing presence. Comparing wicked men to dogs anticipates Christ's warning against giving holy things to dogs (Matthew 7:6).