Psalms 31:11 - Because of all my adversaries I have become utterly contemptible to my neighbors, A fear to my acquaintances. Those who saw me on the street fled from me.
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What does "Psalms 31:11" mean?
This verse from Psalm 31:11 paints a stark picture of isolation and social ostracization due to the psalmist's troubles. Let's break it down:
"Because of all my adversaries I have become utterly contemptible to my neighbors": The presence of enemies (adversaries) has led the psalmist's neighbors to view him with contempt, meaning they despise or look down upon him. The psalmist's enemies may have spread rumors, slandered him, or simply created an atmosphere where being associated with him was undesirable.
"A fear to my acquaintances": Even people he knew (acquaintances) were now afraid of him. This could be because they feared association would bring them similar trouble, or they believed the psalmist was somehow cursed or dangerous.
"Those who saw me on the street fled from me": This is the most extreme expression of isolation. People actively avoided him, running away at the mere sight of him. This emphasizes the depth of the fear and revulsion the psalmist inspired.
Overall Meaning:
The verse describes a state of profound social isolation brought about by the psalmist's troubles (likely persecution and suffering at the hands of enemies). He is not just disliked; he is feared and despised. His community has abandoned him, leaving him utterly alone and vulnerable. The verse highlights the psychological toll of persecution and the devastating impact it can have on one's relationships and sense of belonging.
It's important to note that this verse is part of a larger psalm of lament and trust. Despite his current situation, the psalmist expresses faith in God and seeks refuge in Him. This contrast between the despair of his circumstances and his unwavering faith is a common theme in the Psalms.
Psalms 31:11 - Because of all my adversaries I have become utterly contemptible to my neighbors, A fear to my acquaintances. Those who saw me on the street fled from me.
What does "Psalms 31:11" mean?
This verse from Psalm 31:11 paints a stark picture of isolation and social ostracization due to the psalmist's troubles. Let's break it down:
"Because of all my adversaries I have become utterly contemptible to my neighbors": The presence of enemies (adversaries) has led the psalmist's neighbors to view him with contempt, meaning they despise or look down upon him. The psalmist's enemies may have spread rumors, slandered him, or simply created an atmosphere where being associated with him was undesirable.
"A fear to my acquaintances": Even people he knew (acquaintances) were now afraid of him. This could be because they feared association would bring them similar trouble, or they believed the psalmist was somehow cursed or dangerous.
"Those who saw me on the street fled from me": This is the most extreme expression of isolation. People actively avoided him, running away at the mere sight of him. This emphasizes the depth of the fear and revulsion the psalmist inspired.
Overall Meaning:
The verse describes a state of profound social isolation brought about by the psalmist's troubles (likely persecution and suffering at the hands of enemies). He is not just disliked; he is feared and despised. His community has abandoned him, leaving him utterly alone and vulnerable. The verse highlights the psychological toll of persecution and the devastating impact it can have on one's relationships and sense of belonging.
It's important to note that this verse is part of a larger psalm of lament and trust. Despite his current situation, the psalmist expresses faith in God and seeks refuge in Him. This contrast between the despair of his circumstances and his unwavering faith is a common theme in the Psalms.