God’s people can draw strength from this reminder that fierce opposition often prowls close at hand, but divine shelter is always closer.
In this verse, David paints a vivid picture of his enemies’ relentless intimidation. He says, “They return at evening, they howl like a dog, And go around the city” (v.6). The words “howl like a dog” convey a sense of menacing action. In ancient Israel, dogs were often seen as scavengers that roamed the streets in packs, especially at night (2 Kings 9:35). These opponents of David lurk and prowl around, waiting for an opportunity to strike, similar to dogs on the hunt. At times, David’s enemies included the forces of King Saul, who reigned from about 1050 to 1010 BC, seeking David’s life (1 Samuel 19:11).
The mention here of “the city” (v.6) likely indicates a stronghold such as Gibeah or Jerusalem, where David or his people resided. Gibeah, located a few miles north of Jerusalem, was known in David’s time for being Saul’s capital. During these years (David lived from around 1040 BC to 970 BC), conflict and unrest were present, and the threat of roving bands of foes or spies was real. Against this backdrop, the verse highlights the brazen nature of these enemies, who feel emboldened enough to come under cover of darkness to stir up fear and harm.
Spiritually, “They return at evening” (v.6) depicts the ongoing persistence of adversaries—physical or spiritual—who take every chance to sow chaos. For believers, this can serve as a reminder that troubles may approach repeatedly, but God remains the ultimate defender (Psalm 59:9-10). The verse’s language also connects to Jesus’ teaching about persistent evils that attempt to encircle those who are faithful (John 10:10). Yet, like David, the faithful can cry out to God for deliverance and find hope in His steadfast protection.
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Psalms 59:6 meaning
In this verse, David paints a vivid picture of his enemies’ relentless intimidation. He says, “They return at evening, they howl like a dog, And go around the city” (v.6). The words “howl like a dog” convey a sense of menacing action. In ancient Israel, dogs were often seen as scavengers that roamed the streets in packs, especially at night (2 Kings 9:35). These opponents of David lurk and prowl around, waiting for an opportunity to strike, similar to dogs on the hunt. At times, David’s enemies included the forces of King Saul, who reigned from about 1050 to 1010 BC, seeking David’s life (1 Samuel 19:11).
The mention here of “the city” (v.6) likely indicates a stronghold such as Gibeah or Jerusalem, where David or his people resided. Gibeah, located a few miles north of Jerusalem, was known in David’s time for being Saul’s capital. During these years (David lived from around 1040 BC to 970 BC), conflict and unrest were present, and the threat of roving bands of foes or spies was real. Against this backdrop, the verse highlights the brazen nature of these enemies, who feel emboldened enough to come under cover of darkness to stir up fear and harm.
Spiritually, “They return at evening” (v.6) depicts the ongoing persistence of adversaries—physical or spiritual—who take every chance to sow chaos. For believers, this can serve as a reminder that troubles may approach repeatedly, but God remains the ultimate defender (Psalm 59:9-10). The verse’s language also connects to Jesus’ teaching about persistent evils that attempt to encircle those who are faithful (John 10:10). Yet, like David, the faithful can cry out to God for deliverance and find hope in His steadfast protection.