Psalms 38:19 (KJV)

What does Psalms 38:19 mean?

Psalms 38:19 describes how the psalmist’s enemies are full of energy and strength, and that those who hate him for no just reason have become numerous. The verse highlights the psalmist’s sense of being overwhelmed by opposition from people who are against him unfairly.

King David is speaking in this psalm, expressing his distress to God. He feels surrounded by powerful enemies and betrayed by people who hate him without cause. This verse comes in the middle of a prayer where David is honest about his suffering, both from his own struggles and from the hostility of others.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 38:19

• "Enemies" (אֹיְבַי, ʾoyevai): This word points to those who are openly hostile, not just casual opponents. It emphasizes the real threat David feels.
• "Lively" (חַי, ḥai): Often translated as "alive" or "full of life," this word suggests that David’s enemies are vigorous and active, not weak or passive.
• "Strong" (עָצַם, ʿatsam): This word means "mighty" or "powerful," underlining that David’s adversaries are not only many but also formidable.
• "Hate" (שָׂנֵא, sane): This verb means "to hate," and in this context, it stresses the deep hostility David faces.
• "Wrongfully" (שֶׁקֶר, sheqer): This word means "falsehood" or "without cause," showing that the hatred is not deserved.
• "Multiplied" (רָבָה, rabah): This verb means "to become many," emphasizing that the number of those against David keeps increasing.

Why Psalms 38:19 matters

• This verse clarifies that David’s suffering is not just from his own troubles, but also from unfair treatment by others, which adds to his distress.
• The emphasis on the enemies being "lively" and "strong" helps the reader understand that David is not exaggerating his situation—he truly feels outnumbered and overpowered.
• By mentioning that the hatred is "wrongful," the verse highlights the injustice David experiences, which is a key theme in many psalms and helps readers relate to feelings of being misunderstood or wrongly opposed.