Tuesday January 14th, 2025
Tehilliym (Psalms) 35
The psalmist invokes Elohiym’s deliverance from the oppression and malice of those who strive against him.
Introduction:
Tehilliym 35 is a psalm of David that vividly portrays his plea for justice and deliverance. Faced with betrayal, false accusations, and relentless enemies, David appeals to Yahuah as his advocate and defender. This psalm not only highlights David’s reliance on Yahuah in the midst of adversity but also provides a model for trusting Yahuah’s righteous judgment. Through heartfelt prayers and declarations of faith, David demonstrates how to respond to injustice with confidence in Yahuah’s ultimate deliverance and vindication.
Tehilliym 35 (KJV-YS):
Verses 1-3: Yahuah, My Advocate and Defender
“1. Plead my cause, O Yahuah, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me. 2. Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help. 3. Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me: say unto my soul, I am thy salvation.”
Theme: Trusting Yahuah to Fight for Us
David begins with an impassioned plea, calling on Yahuah to be his advocate and warrior. The imagery of battle conveys David’s deep trust in Yahuah’s power to defend and save.
Cross References:
Shemoth (Exodus) 14:14 – “Yahuah shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.”
Tehilliym 27:1 – “Yahuah is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Yahuah is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
Summary: David calls on Yahuah to fight for him against those who strive against him, portraying Yahuah as his divine protector and salvation.
Verses 4-12: The Schemes of the Wicked
“4. Let them be confounded and put to shame that seek after my soul: let them be turned back and brought to confusion that devise my hurt. 5. Let them be as chaff before the wind: and let the angel of Yahuah chase them. 6. Let their way be dark and slippery: and let the angel of Yahuah persecute them. 7. For without cause have they hid for me their net in a pit, which without cause they have digged for my soul. 8. Let destruction come upon him at unawares; and let his net that he hath hid catch himself: into that very destruction let him fall. 9. And my soul shall be joyful in Yahuah: it shall rejoice in His salvation. 10. All my bones shall say, Yahuah, who is like unto Thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him? 11. False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things that I knew not. 12. They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul.”
Theme: The Injustice of the Wicked
David calls for the defeat of those who seek to harm him without cause. He exposes their schemes and false accusations while declaring his confidence that Yahuah will deliver him and bring justice.
Cross References:
Tehilliym 7:15 – “He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made.”
Mishlei (Proverbs) 26:27 – “Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him “
Mattithyahu (Matthew) 5:11 – “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake.”
Summary: David describes the unjust attacks and deceitful plots of his enemies, asking Yahuah to bring their plans to ruin and to deliver him.
Verses 13-16: Betrayal and Falsehood
“13. 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. 14. I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother. 15. 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. 16. With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth.”
Theme: The Pain of Betrayal
David reflects on the heartbreak of betrayal. Despite showing compassion and prayer for his enemies, they repaid him with cruelty and mockery.
Cross References:
Iyov (Job) 19:19 – “All my inward friends abhorred me: and they whom I loved are turned against me.”
Yohanan (John) 15:25 – “But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their Torah, They hated Me without a cause.”
Summary: David recounts the pain of betrayal, reflecting on how he showed compassion to his adversaries, only to have them repay his kindness with cruelty.
Verses 17-18: A Plea for Yahuah’s Intervention
“17. Lord, how long wilt Thou look on? Rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions. 18. I will give Thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise Thee among much people.”
Theme: Faith in Yahuah’s Timing
David calls on Yahuah to act swiftly to rescue him, yet he balances his plea with a vow to praise Yahuah publicly for His deliverance.
Cross References:
Tehilliym 22:20 – “Deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog.”
Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 40:31 – “But they that wait upon Yahuah shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.“
Summary: David pleads for Yahuah to rescue him from his enemies and promises to give thanks and praise to Yahuah publicly for His deliverance.
Verses 19-23: Yahuah, the Righteous Judge
“19. Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me: neither let them wink with the eye that hate me without a cause. 20. For they speak not peace: but they devise deceitful matters against them that are quiet in the land. 21. Yea, they opened their mouth wide against me, and said, Aha, aha, our eye hath seen it. 22. This Thou hast seen, O Yahuah: keep not silence: O Lord, be not far from me. 23. Stir up Thyself, and awake to my judgment, even unto my cause, my Elohiym and my Lord.”
Theme: Calling for Yahuah’s Justice
David appeals to Yahuah as the righteous judge, asking Him to silence his enemies and vindicate him against their deceit.
Cross References:
Tehilliym 37:12-13 – “The wicked plotteth against the just and, gnasheth upon him with his teeth. 13.Yahuah shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming.“
Romiyim (Romans) 12:19 – “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, saith Yahuah.“
Summary: David appeals to Yahuah to silence his enemies and vindicate him, emphasizing Yahuah’s role as the ultimate judge of all.
Verses 24-28: Rejoicing in Yahuah’s Deliverance
“24. Judge me, O Yahuah my Elohiym, according to Thy righteousness; and let them not rejoice over me. 25. Let them not say in their hearts, Ah, so would we have it: let them not say, We have swallowed him up. 26. Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion together that rejoice at mine hurt: let them be clothed with shame and dishonour that magnify themselves against me. 27. Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let Yahuah be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of His servant. 28. And my tongue shall speak of Thy righteousness and of Thy praise all the day long.”
Theme: Vindication and Praise
The psalm concludes with David’s confidence in Yahuah’s righteous judgment and his commitment to praise Yahuah for His faithfulness and deliverance.
Cross References:
Tehilliym 34:3 – “O magnify Yahuah with me, and let us exalt His name together.”
Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 61:10 –“I will greatly rejoice in Yahuah; my soul shall be joyful in my Elohiym; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. “
Summary: David anticipates Yahuah’s deliverance and pledges to magnify and praise Yahuah continually for His righteousness and salvation.
Conclusion:
Tehilliym 35 is a heartfelt cry for Yahuah’s justice and deliverance, showcasing David’s unwavering faith in Yahuah as his defender, advocate, and righteous judge. The psalm illustrates the tension between human vulnerability and divine protection, as David appeals to Yahuah amid betrayal, false accusations, and relentless attacks from his enemies.
Tehilliym (Psalms) 36
After praising Elohiym for gracious treatment, the psalmist instructs others on the providential care of the righteous.
Introduction:
Tehilliym 36 presents a stark contrast between the corruption of the wicked and the boundless goodness of Yahuah. David begins by reflecting on the self-deception and evil schemes of those who reject the fear of Elohiym. He then turns to the majesty of Yahuah’s lovingkindness, mercy, and faithfulness, describing Yahuah as the fountain of life and the source of true light. This psalm encourages believers to seek refuge under the shadow of Yahuah’s wings and to trust in His righteousness while navigating a world filled with wickedness.
Tehilliym 36 (KJV-YS)
Verses 1-4: The Corruption of the Wicked
“1. The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of Elohiym before his eyes. 2. For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful. 3. The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, and to do good. 4. He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil.”
Theme: The Nature of the Wicked
The psalmist describes the internal state and outward actions of the wicked. Without the fear of Elohiym, they live in self-deception, using flattery and deceit to justify their iniquity. Their hearts are bent on evil, reflecting a life devoid of wisdom and righteousness.
Cross References:
Romiyim (Romans) 3:18 – “There is no fear of Elohiym before their eyes.”
Mishlei (Proverbs) 16:2 – “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but Yahuah weigheth the spirits.”
Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 5:20 – “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!“
Summary: David highlights the inward corruption and outward evil deeds of those who lack the fear of Yahuah, showing their self-deception and dedication to wickedness.
Verses 5-9: The Majesty of Yahuah’s Lovingkindness
“5. Thy mercy, O Yahuah, is in the heavens; and Thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds. 6. Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; Thy judgments are a great deep: O Yahuah, Thou preservest man and beast. 7. How excellent is Thy lovingkindness, O Elohiym! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Thy wings. 8. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of Thy house; and Thou shalt make them drink of the river of Thy pleasures. 9. For with Thee is the fountain of life: in Thy light shall we see light.”
Theme: The Abundance of Yahuah’s Goodness
The psalm shifts focus to Yahuah’s unparalleled mercy, faithfulness, and righteousness. His lovingkindness is portrayed as a source of refuge, provision, and life. The imagery of a fountain and light emphasizes Yahuah as the giver of sustenance, joy, and spiritual understanding.
Cross References:
Shemoth (Exodus) 34:6 – “And the Yahuah passed by before him, and proclaimed, Yahuah,Yahuah Elohiym, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.”
Yochanan (John) 4:14 – “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst. ; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. “
Chazon (Revelation) 22:1 – “And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of Elohiym and of the Lamb.”
Summary: David contrasts the wickedness of man with Yahuah’s limitless mercy, faithfulness, and righteousness, portraying Yahuah as the fountain of life and a source of refuge.
Verses 10-12: A Prayer for Protection and Justice
“10. O continue Thy lovingkindness unto them that know Thee; and Thy righteousness to the upright in heart. 11. Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me. 12. There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise.”
Theme: Confidence in Yahuah’s Righteous Judgment
David closes the psalm with a prayer for Yahuah to extend His lovingkindness and righteousness to His people. He seeks protection from the prideful and wicked, expressing confidence that their downfall is inevitable under Yahuah’s judgment.
Cross References:
Tehilliym 37:28 – “For Yahuah loveth judgment, and forsaketh not His saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.“
Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 41:10 – “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy Elohiym: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Romiyim (Romans) 8:31 – “What shall we then say to these things? If Elohiym be for us, who can be against us?”
Summary: David prays for Yahuah to continue His lovingkindness toward the upright and to protect him from the wicked, affirming that the downfall of the wicked is inevitable.
Conclusion:
Tehilliym 36 presents a striking contrast between the corruption of the wicked and the majesty of Yahuah’s lovingkindness. It reminds us to reject self-deception and embrace the fear of Yahuah, drawing strength from His mercy and righteousness.
Through David’s prayer, we see the assurance of Yahuah’s judgment against the wicked and His unending protection for those who trust Him. Yahuah’s lovingkindness, like a fountain of life, sustains and nourishes His people, giving them hope and light amid darkness.
Self-Study and Reflection Questions for Tehilliym 35
Verses 1-3: Yahuah, My Advocate and Defender
- How can you actively trust Yahuah to fight your battles? Reflect on a situation where you depended on Him for deliverance.
- What does it mean for Yahuah to say to your soul, “I am thy salvation”? How can this assurance guide your faith?
Verses 4-12: The Schemes of the Wicked
- Have you ever experienced betrayal or deceit like David describes? How did you respond, and what role did faith play in your reaction?
- How can you commit your cause to Yahuah instead of retaliating against those who plot against you?
Verses 13-16: Betrayal and Falsehood
- How does David’s compassion for his enemies challenge you to respond differently to those who hurt you?
- In what ways can fasting and prayer help you process betrayal and maintain righteousness in difficult relationships?
Verses 17-18: A Plea for Yahuah’s Intervention
- When facing trials, how do you balance praying for Yahuah’s deliverance and trusting His timing?
- David promises to thank Yahuah publicly for His deliverance. How can you share your testimony of Yahuah’s faithfulness with others?
Verses 19-23: Yahuah, the Righteous Judge
- How can trusting Yahuah to bring justice help you avoid feelings of vengeance or bitterness?
- Reflect on a time when Yahuah vindicated you or brought clarity to a difficult situation. How did it impact your faith?
Verses 24-28: Rejoicing in Yahuah’s Deliverance
- How can you cultivate a habit of praising Yahuah even before you see His deliverance?
- What practical steps can you take to magnify Yahuah in your daily life, especially when facing adversity?
Self-Study and Reflection Questions for Tehilliym 36
Verses 1-4: The Corruption of the Wicked
- What are some ways to guard against self-deception and ensure that your actions align with the fear of Yahuah?
- How does this passage remind you of the importance of living wisely and avoiding evil paths?
Verses 5-9: The Majesty of Yahuah’s Lovingkindness
- Reflect on Yahuah’s mercy, faithfulness, and righteousness in your own life. How have these attributes sustained you?
- The psalmist describes Yahuah as the “fountain of life.” How can you draw more deeply from this fountain in your daily walk with Him?
- How does experiencing Yahuah’s lovingkindness encourage you to trust Him as your refuge?
Verses 10-12: A Prayer for Protection and Justice
- How does David’s prayer for Yahuah to continue His lovingkindness inspire your personal prayers?
- Reflect on a time when Yahuah protected you from harm or delivered you from a difficult situation. How did it strengthen your trust in Him?
- How can the confidence that the wicked “shall not be able to rise” help you maintain peace in the face of opposition?