Psalms 64:4
That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and fear not.
Original Language Analysis
יֹ֝רֻ֗הוּ
That they may shoot
H3384
יֹ֝רֻ֗הוּ
That they may shoot
Strong's:
H3384
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by
תָּ֑ם
at the perfect
H8535
תָּ֑ם
at the perfect
Strong's:
H8535
Word #:
3 of 7
complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically, gentle, dear
יֹ֝רֻ֗הוּ
That they may shoot
H3384
יֹ֝רֻ֗הוּ
That they may shoot
Strong's:
H3384
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by
Historical Context
David's experience of unexpected attacks despite his integrity parallels Job's suffering. Both demonstrate that righteousness doesn't guarantee protection from assault but does guarantee God's ultimate vindication.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does blameless living sometimes intensify rather than prevent opposition?
- How should the 'suddenly' nature of attacks inform your spiritual vigilance?
Analysis & Commentary
Shooting 'in secret at the perfect' reveals the cowardly nature of slander—attacking from hiding those who walk uprightly. 'Suddenly' indicates unexpected assault, and 'fear not' shows hardened conscience. The targeting of the 'perfect' (Hebrew 'tam'—complete/blameless) demonstrates that righteousness provokes hostility, anticipating persecution of the righteous (2 Timothy 3:12).