Psalms 35:13 Meaning and Explanation
“But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist grieves that his compassion and intercession for his enemies were rejected.
The Context of Psalms 35:13
The psalmist recalls his own compassion and its rejection.
What Does Psalms 35:13 Mean?
In response to his enemies' illness, the psalmist took on signs of mourning—sackcloth and fasting—and prayed for them. This behavior shows extraordinary compassion: he interceded for those who harm him. Yet his prayer 'returned into his bosom,' meaning it came back unanswered or unappreciated, finding no reception.
This verse portrays deep spiritual pain. The psalmist's goodness and prayer did not soften his enemies or move them toward reconciliation. The refusal of his enemies to receive his compassion is another form of the 'evil for good' described in the previous verse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 35:13
What does Psalms 35:13 mean?
The psalmist grieves that his compassion and intercession for his enemies were rejected.
What is the context of Psalms 35:13?
The psalmist recalls his own compassion and its rejection.