Psalms 35:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 35:19
19 Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me: neither let them wink with the eye that hate me without a cause.
Chapter Context
Psalms 35 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, salvation, holiness. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 35:19
19 Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me: neither let them wink with the eye that hate me without a cause.
Analysis
Enemies who 'hate me without a cause' directly parallels Christ's words in John 15:25, making this psalm messianic. The 'wink with the eye' signifies conspiratorial contempt (Proverbs 6:13, 10:10), covert signaling of malicious intent. David's innocence and their baseless hatred establish the pattern fulfilled in Christ, whom the world hated though He deserved worship, revealing that righteousness itself provokes fallen humanity's hostility.
Historical Context
Body language conveyed meaning in ancient societies where nonverbal communication was culturally codified. The winking eye was universally understood as expressing mockery or secret plotting.
Reflection
- How do you respond when hated or opposed despite living righteously?
- In what ways does Christ's experience of causeless hatred comfort your own?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 13:4, 38:16, 38:19, 69:4, Proverbs 6:13, 10:10