Psalms 31:11

“I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me.”

Context:Psalm 31 is a psalm of David, and it is categorised as a lament. In this psalm, David pours out his heart to God, expressing his distress and seeking God’s deliverance from his enemies. It is believed that David wrote this psalm during a period of his life when he faced opposition and persecution.

• Understanding the verse:
  • “I was a reproach among all mine enemies”: David states that he was the subject of scorn, disgrace, and shame among his enemies. He experienced derision and mockery from those who opposed him.
  • “But especially among my neighbours”: Not only did David face reproach from his enemies, but he also experienced it from his own neighbours. These were people who lived in close proximity to him, possibly referring to fellow Israelites. It is disheartening when one’s immediate community turns against them.
  • “And a fear to mine acquaintance”: David’s situation was so dire that even those who knew him well, his acquaintances or friends, were afraid of him. It’s possible that David’s circumstances or the actions of his enemies caused such fear that his acquaintances distanced themselves from him.
  • “They that did see me without fled from me”: David’s appearance or condition had become so terrible that even those who saw him from a distance fled in fear. This suggests that his outward appearance reflected the magnitude of his distress and anguish.