Commentary on Psalms 35:14

Verse in Context: "I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother."

This verse paints a vivid picture of deep empathy and compassionate sorrow in the face of betrayal and adversity. The psalmist expresses his grief not just for himself, but also for those who find themselves in conflict. Through his lamentation, he reveals the complex emotions of loyalty, loss, and profound sadness.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Empathetic Response: Matthew Henry emphasizes the psalmist's empathetic response to the adversity faced by his enemies or those once thought to be friends. The verse encapsulates the idea that the psalmist, even in dire circumstances, chooses to display grief and sorrow rather than vindictiveness. This highlights a Christlike compassion that is essential for those seeking to embody Christ's love.

Behavior of the Righteous: Henry notes that true righteousness often exhibits a spirit of mourning for the sins and sufferings of others. Instead of rejoicing in the downfall of adversaries, the psalmist chooses to mourn, portraying a character aligned with divine principles of mercy and love.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Bowed Down in Mourning: Albert Barnes elaborates on the action of bowing down heavily, interpreting it as a posture of submission and humility. This act signifies a deep emotional response like someone mourning for a beloved. It reflects spiritual depth and the weight of intercession for others, a common theme in psalmic literature.

Brotherhood and Friendship: Barnes highlights the bond of friendship implied in the verse. The psalmist's portrayal of an adversary or misunderstood individual as a brother showcases an ideal of unity and love that believers are called to aspire to. This sets a precedent for behaviors that challenge worldly notions of enmity and bitterness.

Insights from Adam Clarke

The Grief of Betrayal: Adam Clarke points out that the emotional tone of this Psalm encapsulates the profound grief that accompanies betrayal. Highlights from Clarke suggest that the intensity of emotional pain is as vivid as that felt for a mother’s loss – indicating the depth of relational ties the psalmist maintained.

A Call to Mourning: Clarke further reflects on the cultural context of mourning within Hebrew society, establishing how significant expressions of sorrow were in a communal setting. The psalmist's behavior serves as a model for believers, calling them to embody a spirit of love that transcends grudge-holding and promotes reconciliation.

Theological Reflections

• Compassion Over Judgment: Pastors and scholars can take away the crucial lesson of showing compassion over judgment, especially to those who might oppose us or who we perceive as enemies. As the psalmist reflects sorrow for his adversaries, Christians are encouraged to pursue peace and reconciliation.
• Intercessory Prayer: The mourning expressed can be seen as an invitation to intercessory prayer. Just as the psalmist mourns for those in trouble, so too can believers stand in the gap for those they care about, utilizing prayer as a powerful spiritual tool for healing.
• Christ's Example: This passage evokes the heart of Christ’s compassion for sinners and His call to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44). The principle of feeling sorrow for others' plight is central to Christian ethics, challenging believers to live out an authentic faith.

Conclusion

Psalms 35:14 is a profound exploration of human emotion, inviting believers into a deeper understanding of sorrow, love, and compassion. It calls for a response that mirrors the heart of God—a heart that grieves over sin and seeks restoration. The insights drawn from the commentaries of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke serve as a robust foundation for pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, urging a reflection on how we view and respond to both friends and foes in our spiritual journey.