Psalms 71:10
For mine enemies speak against me; and they that lay wait for my soul take counsel together,
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
וְשֹׁמְרֵ֥י
against me and they that lay wait
H8104
וְשֹׁמְרֵ֥י
against me and they that lay wait
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
נַ֝פְשִׁ֗י
for my soul
H5315
נַ֝פְשִׁ֗י
for my soul
Strong's:
H5315
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
Historical Context
David faced literal conspiracies—Saul's pursuit, Absalom's rebellion, court intrigues. These real threats provided context for trusting God's protection against coordinated opposition.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond when opposition moves from criticism to active plotting against you?
- What does it mean to bring enemies' conspiracies to God rather than trying to outmaneuver them yourself?
- How does knowing God's purposes ultimately prevail provide courage when facing organized opposition?
Analysis & Commentary
Enemies 'speak against me' and 'lay wait for my soul,' revealing both verbal attacks and active plots. 'Take counsel together' shows organized conspiracy, not random opposition. The escalation from speech to ambush to coordinated plotting depicts intensifying persecution. Yet bringing this to God rather than responding in kind demonstrates faith. Believers face real enemies with real plans, but God's counsel prevails over all human scheming (Psalm 33:10-11).