Old Testament

Psalms 35:4

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a plea for protection against those who are trying to harm him.

Author
David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written
Around 1000-500 BC
Genre
Poetry and worship
Original Audience
Worshipers of Israel
CBTClear Bible Translation

Let those who seek after my soul be confounded and put to shame. Let those who devise my hurt be turned back and brought to confusion.

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a plea for protection against those who are trying to harm him. He asks that those who pursue him with malicious intent be confused and shamed. The psalmist desires that their plans to hurt him fail and that they experience a reversal of their intentions. This reflects a deep sense of vulnerability and a reliance on God for justice and deliverance. The imagery of being confounded and turned back suggests a desire for divine intervention, where God steps in to thwart the efforts of the enemies. The psalmist's call for shame upon his adversaries indicates a hope that their wrongful actions will be exposed and that they will face consequences for their behavior. Overall, this verse highlights the struggle between good and evil, and the psalmist's faith in God's ability to protect and vindicate him against those who seek to do him harm.

How to apply Psalms 35:4 to your life

When facing opposition or harm from others, we can turn to God in prayer, asking for His protection and justice. This verse encourages us to trust that God sees our struggles and will intervene on our behalf, bringing confusion to those who wish us harm.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 35:4 mean?

Psalms 35:4 expresses a plea for God’s protection against those who seek to harm the psalmist. It asks for the enemies' plans to fail and for them to experience shame and confusion.

What is the significance of being confounded in Psalms 35:4?

Being confounded in Psalms 35:4 signifies a desire for the enemies to be confused and unable to carry out their harmful intentions. It reflects the psalmist's hope for divine intervention in their struggles.

How can I apply Psalms 35:4 in my life?

You can apply Psalms 35:4 by turning to God in prayer when facing opposition or harm. It encourages trusting that God will protect you and bring confusion to those who wish you ill.

The Book of Psalms
Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

Premium

Unlock the full Psalms summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.