What is the meaning of Psalm 22:12? Many bulls surround me “Many bulls surround me” (Psalm 22:12a) pictures an overwhelming number of opponents closing in on David—and, prophetically, on Christ at the cross. • David often spoke of enemies crowding him (Psalm 3:1; 17:9). • The crowd that jeered at Jesus likewise “stood watching” (Luke 23:35), a living fulfillment of this verse. • The plural “many” reminds us that hostility can feel relentless, yet God remains greater than the numbers (2 Kings 6:16). strong bulls of Bashan “Strong bulls of Bashan” (22:12b) identifies these foes as unusually powerful. Bashan’s rich pastures (Deuteronomy 32:14) produced the largest, healthiest cattle, so the phrase became shorthand for proud strength (Amos 4:1). • In David’s day, adversaries like Saul’s loyalists or Philistine commanders fit the image. • At Calvary the “strong” included religious leaders (Matthew 26:3–4) and Roman authorities (John 19:10–11). • The verse underscores that opposition may possess real might, yet God’s plan is never threatened (Psalm 33:10–11). encircle me These bulls “encircle me” (22:12c), tightening the ring so escape seems impossible. • David felt hemmed in before, crying, “They confronted me in the day of my calamity, but the LORD was my support” (Psalm 18:18). • Jesus experienced literal encirclement—soldiers, rulers, and mobs surrounding the cross (Mark 15:16; John 19:25). • When pressure closes in, believers can echo Psalm 34:7: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them.” summary Psalm 22:12 paints a three-fold picture: a multitude of foes, unusually strong adversaries, and a suffocating closeness. David’s words accurately described his own trials and, even more vividly, the crucifixion of Christ. The verse reassures us that no matter how numerous, powerful, or near the enemy seems, the Lord’s saving purpose stands firm and will ultimately prevail. |
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