Psalm 31:13

For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side. They conspire against me and plot to take my life.

Study Bible

For I hear the slander of many
The Hebrew word for "slander" is "dibbah," which conveys the idea of whispering or defamation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, slander was a powerful tool used to undermine reputations and incite fear. The psalmist, David, is acutely aware of the destructive power of words, which can be as harmful as physical attacks. This phrase highlights the emotional and psychological distress caused by false accusations and malicious gossip. In a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a reminder of the importance of guarding one's tongue and the call to speak truth in love, as emphasized in the New Testament.

terror on every side
The phrase "terror on every side" evokes a sense of being surrounded by danger and fear. The Hebrew word "magor" is often associated with panic and dread. Historically, David faced numerous threats from enemies, including King Saul and foreign adversaries. This expression captures the overwhelming nature of his circumstances, where danger seemed inescapable. For believers today, this can symbolize the spiritual battles and external pressures faced in a fallen world. It encourages reliance on God's protection and peace, which surpasses all understanding, as taught in Philippians 4:7.

while they conspire together against me
The word "conspire" comes from the Hebrew "yasad," meaning to lay a foundation or plan secretly. This indicates a deliberate and organized effort by David's enemies to harm him. In the historical context, such conspiracies were common in royal courts and among political rivals. This phrase underscores the reality of human betrayal and the schemes of those who oppose God's anointed. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, it serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare believers face and the assurance that God is sovereign over all human plots.

they plot to take my life
The Hebrew word for "plot" is "zamam," which implies devising or scheming with evil intent. The ultimate goal of David's adversaries was to end his life, reflecting the severity of his plight. This phrase highlights the mortal danger David faced and his vulnerability. In a broader scriptural context, it points to the reality of persecution faced by God's people throughout history. For Christians, it is a call to trust in God's deliverance and justice, as He is the ultimate protector of life. It also foreshadows the ultimate plot against Jesus Christ, who overcame death and offers eternal life to all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 31, David is expressing his distress and seeking refuge in God amidst his adversaries.

2. Enemies/Adversaries
The unspecified individuals or groups who are slandering and conspiring against David, creating a sense of terror.

3. Terror on Every Side
A phrase indicating the overwhelming nature of the threats and fears surrounding David.

4. Conspiracy
The organized effort by David's enemies to harm him, reflecting the intense opposition he faced.

5. Plot to Take My Life
The ultimate threat against David, highlighting the severity of his situation and his reliance on God for deliverance.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Protection
Despite the overwhelming threats, believers are encouraged to trust in God's ability to protect and deliver them from their enemies.

The Reality of Opposition
Followers of God should be prepared for opposition and slander, understanding that these challenges are part of the spiritual journey.

Prayer as a Refuge
In times of distress, turning to God in prayer is a powerful way to find peace and strength amidst adversity.

God's Sovereignty Over Plots
No matter how well-organized the plans against us may be, God's sovereignty ensures that His purposes will prevail.

Endurance Through Trials
The experiences of biblical figures like David and Jesus remind us that enduring trials with faith can lead to spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's experience of slander and conspiracy in Psalm 31:13 relate to the challenges we face today as Christians?

2. In what ways can we find comfort in God's protection when we feel surrounded by "terror on every side"?

3. How can the example of David's reliance on God in Psalm 31 inspire us to respond to personal attacks or slander?

4. What other biblical figures faced similar opposition, and how did their responses inform our understanding of handling adversity?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Psalm 31:13 to strengthen our prayer life and trust in God's deliverance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 20:10
This verse echoes the phrase "terror on every side," showing a similar experience of fear and conspiracy against a prophet of God.

Psalm 56:5-6
These verses also describe the constant plotting and slander against the psalmist, reinforcing the theme of seeking God's protection.

Matthew 26:59-61
The conspiracy against Jesus by the religious leaders parallels the plotting against David, illustrating the recurring theme of righteous individuals facing unjust opposition.

2 Samuel 15:12-14
The conspiracy of Absalom against David provides a historical context for the type of betrayal and plotting David might have experienced.