Psalms 35:15 Meaning and Explanation
“But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: yea, the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist's enemies delight in his suffering and attack him without restraint.
The Context of Psalms 35:15
The enemies' response to the psalmist's vulnerability and kindness.
What Does Psalms 35:15 Mean?
Rather than responding to compassion with gratitude or restraint, the enemies gathered together in opposition. 'Abjects'—the lowly or despised—gathered against him when he was vulnerable, showing opportunism and mob cruelty. Their rejoicing in adversity shows malice, not justice.
The phrase 'I knew it not' suggests the attacks came unexpectedly or from hidden sources. 'They did tear me' uses violent language—not a clean blow but rending, tearing, causing maximum trauma. The 'ceased not' emphasizes relentless, uninterrupted attack.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 35:15
What does Psalms 35:15 mean?
The psalmist's enemies delight in his suffering and attack him without restraint.
What is the context of Psalms 35:15?
The enemies' response to the psalmist's vulnerability and kindness.