Psalms 13:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist fears his enemies will claim victory and mock him if he falls.
The Context of Psalms 13:4
The reason for the petition: the psalmist's defeat would be interpreted as divine weakness by his enemies.
What Does Psalms 13:4 Mean?
The psalmist articulates what is at stake not only for himself but for God's reputation: if he falls without rescue, his enemies will declare that their power is greater than God's care. The enemy's boast—'I have prevailed'—echoes the exaltation mentioned in verse 2, but now frames it as a direct challenge to God.
Those that trouble him rejoicing 'when I am moved' suggests the satisfaction enemies find in his defeat. The psalmist's concern is not mere personal pride but the theological implication: the triumph of his enemies would seem to prove God powerless or indifferent. He stakes God's honor on his deliverance.
Psalms 13:4 in the Original Language
yadal (יָדַל), 'prevailed' — to overcome, gain power over, or succeed against; the enemy's potential boast claims supernatural victory over the psalmist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 13:4
What does Psalms 13:4 mean?
The psalmist fears his enemies will claim victory and mock him if he falls.
What is the context of Psalms 13:4?
The reason for the petition: the psalmist's defeat would be interpreted as divine weakness by his enemies.