Psalm 7 4

Psalm 7:4 kjv

If I have rewarded evil unto him that was at peace with me; (yea, I have delivered him that without cause is mine enemy:)

Psalm 7:4 nkjv

If I have repaid evil to him who was at peace with me, Or have plundered my enemy without cause,

Psalm 7:4 niv

if I have repaid my ally with evil or without cause have robbed my foe?

Psalm 7:4 esv

if I have repaid my friend with evil or plundered my enemy without cause,

Psalm 7:4 nlt

if I have betrayed a friend
or plundered my enemy without cause,

Psalm 7 verses

Psalm 7 4 Meaning

Psalm 7:4 is part of David's earnest plea to the Lord, asserting his innocence against accusations. In this verse, David specifically denies two types of wrongdoing: first, repaying evil to someone who was at peace with him, implying betrayal or treachery against a supposed ally or someone not actively hostile; and second, plundering someone who had no cause to be his enemy or one whom he attacked without cause. It is an emphatic declaration of moral uprightness and non-retaliation, particularly in the face of opportunities to act contrary to God's standards.

Psalm 7 4 Context

Psalm 7 is a shiggaion of David, indicating a psalm of deep emotion, perhaps a dirge or a passionate wandering melody, likely expressing David's turmoil and plea for justice. It is prefaced as "concerning Cush a Benjamite," a figure not explicitly named elsewhere in the Bible, suggesting he may be an obscure accuser, or perhaps a symbolic reference to a known Benjamite adversary like Saul or Shimei. Historically, David experienced significant periods of wrongful persecution, especially during his flight from King Saul, and later from Absalom's rebellion. This Psalm reflects David's legal-style defense before God, seeking vindication from false accusations or undeserved malice. In Psalm 7:4, David explicitly denies having repaid evil for good, betraying peaceful acquaintances, or unjustly plundering even his enemies, thus contrasting his virtuous conduct with the wicked behavior of his accusers and asserting his blamelessness before God. This appeal is crucial because, in ancient Near Eastern legal understanding, a true judge would assess not only the plaintiff's claim but also the defendant's character.

Psalm 7 4 Word analysis

• if I have repaid (אִם־גָּמַלְתִּי, im-gamalti): The Hebrew word gamal means to deal out, to recompense, or to repay. It can signify both positive reward and negative requital (repaying evil for good). The conditional "if" (אִם, im) introduces a strong oath-like denial. David is invoking a divine curse upon himself if his actions are as alleged, highlighting the seriousness of his claim of innocence. This form of oath was a common legal recourse in ancient Israel and the wider ANE for individuals to assert their blamelessness and appeal to divine justice.

• evil (רַע, ra): This Hebrew term encompasses various forms of harm, wickedness, distress, or injury. Here, it refers to malicious or injurious actions, a direct contrast to righteous behavior.

• to him who was at peace with me (שׁוֹלְמִי, sholmi): Derived from the root shalom (שָׁלוֹם), meaning peace, completeness, welfare. Sholmi refers to one who is in a state of peace with someone, a friendly acquaintance, or an ally. David denies violating a relationship based on peace or mutual welfare. This is a denial of treachery or betrayal towards one who had no hostile intentions or even maintained a friendly disposition.

• or plundered him (וָאֲחַלְּצָה, va'ahalletsah): The verb chalats (חָלַץ) typically means to draw out, strip, equip, deliver, or pluck off. In this context, it implies an act of stripping away possessions, often in a forceful or aggressive manner, akin to plundering. David denies predatory action or unjustified seizure of wealth from anyone.

• who without cause (בּלֹא־צָר, b'lo'-tsar): This phrase is significant. Tsār (צָר) means an adversary, oppressor, or enemy. The phrase b'lo'-tsār literally means "without an oppressor/adversary," which is usually understood in two ways:

  1. without my adversary having a cause: David denying he plundered someone who, himself, had no good reason to be David's enemy (i.e., plundering an innocent, unprovoked party).
  2. without cause from me: David denies plundering his enemy unjustifiably or without the enemy's direct provocation, even if they were already his adversary. This emphasizes David's moral stance not to repay evil for evil or attack unnecessarily. The overall thrust is David's assertion that he did not inflict harm without proper justification, even towards adversaries.

• "if I have repaid evil to him who was at peace with me": This clause focuses on the breach of peace or trust. David declares he has not acted maliciously or treacherously towards those who maintained peaceful relations with him. This stands as a denial of betraying allies or acquaintances. It shows David's commitment to respecting peaceful coexistence.

• "or plundered him who without cause was my enemy": This phrase refers to unwarranted aggression. David denies exploiting or taking advantage of an adversary unjustly, or taking advantage of someone who was harmless. It's a statement against predatory behavior even towards those he might have viewed as foes. This indicates a high moral standard, even in wartime or conflict scenarios. It's not just about not retaliating against friends but also showing restraint even against enemies who haven't directly or justly provoked such a violent response from him.

Psalm 7 4 Bonus section

The specific use of the conditional particle "if" (אִם) in this verse is an ancient legal formula found in covenant curses and judicial oaths (e.g., Ex 22:4; Deut 28:15). By stating "if I have repaid evil...", David effectively places himself under God's potential judgment, indicating his full confidence in his own innocence before a righteous God. This deep personal oath is a sign of immense faith in God's judicial nature, portraying God not merely as a cosmic bystander but as the ultimate, active judge who truly vindicates the innocent and punishes the wicked. This makes the Psalm not just a prayer, but a forensic appeal, anticipating divine intervention based on righteous conduct. The phrase also hints at the significant temptation David faced to retaliate, especially given his power and opportunities (as seen with Saul). His denial underscores his spiritual discipline and obedience to a higher principle than worldly vengeance.

Psalm 7 4 Commentary

Psalm 7:4 serves as a foundational declaration of David's integrity and his refusal to engage in the common practices of his time: vengeance and unjust gain. By framing his denial as a conditional oath, David puts his very life and righteousness before God, inviting divine judgment if his claims are false. This speaks to a profound trust in God's ultimate justice and a deeply ingrained moral code inspired by divine law rather than human opportunism.

This verse reveals David's character as someone who strove not only to avoid obvious transgressions but also to practice a higher standard of conduct towards both his "peace-partners" and his "enemies." He specifically denies betraying those with whom he had shalom, rejecting any act of treachery. Furthermore, his denial of plundering one who "without cause was his enemy" goes beyond simple non-aggression; it suggests a restraint even towards those who might oppose him, choosing not to take advantage or inflict unwarranted harm. This resonates deeply with the later teachings of Christ in the New Testament to "love your enemies" (Matt 5:44) and "do not repay evil for evil" (Rom 12:17). David, despite living under the Old Covenant, demonstrates a Spirit-led pursuit of righteousness that foreshadows these ultimate divine commands. His sparing of Saul's life in 1 Samuel 24 and 26 serves as practical examples of him living out the very principles he asserts in this verse. His conduct stands as a powerful witness to trusting God for vindication rather than taking matters into one's own hands, showcasing a righteous heart that chose self-control and faith over violent retribution.