Psalms 27:12

KJV

Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.

KJV (with Strong's)

Deliver {H5414} me not over unto the will {H5315} of mine enemies {H6862}: for false {H8267} witnesses {H5707} are risen up {H6965} against me, and such as breathe out {H3307} cruelty {H2555}.

Complete Jewish Bible

don't give me up to the whims of my foes; for false witnesses have risen against me, also those who are breathing violence.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not hand me over to the will of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence.

American Standard Version

Deliver me not over unto the will of mine adversaries: For false witnesses are risen up against me, And such as breathe out cruelty.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 27:12 is a poignant and urgent supplication from David, revealing his profound vulnerability and desperate need for God's immediate intervention against malevolent adversaries. It vividly portrays the distress of one facing not only false accusations but also the pervasive, violent intentions of enemies, underscoring a radical dependence on God as the sole Protector and Deliverer in the face of overwhelming and unjust opposition. This verse marks a critical pivot in the psalm, transitioning from confident declarations of trust to an earnest, specific plea for divine rescue, highlighting that even robust faith does not exempt one from the realities of present suffering.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 27:12 represents a dramatic shift in the psalm's emotional and thematic trajectory. The initial verses ([Psalm 27:1-6](/psalms/27-1-6 "Psalm 27:1-6 - David's Confidence in God")) are characterized by David's unwavering confidence and bold declarations of trust in God's light, salvation, and protective presence, even in the face of war. He expresses a singular desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and behold His beauty. However, from [Psalm 27:7](/psalms/27-7 "Psalm 27:7 - David's Cry for Help") onward, the tone transitions sharply to one of earnest lament and specific supplication. Verse 12 serves as a direct, visceral cry for help, detailing the precise nature of the threats: deceitful slander and inherent malice. This stark contrast between initial confidence and subsequent desperate prayer underscores the dynamic nature of faith—it is not a static state but an ongoing engagement with God amidst changing circumstances, acknowledging that even profound trust necessitates fervent prayer in times of acute distress. The psalm ultimately resolves with a renewed call to "wait on the Lord" ([Psalm 27:14](/psalms/27-14 "Psalm 27:14 - Wait on the Lord")), reinforcing the theme of persevering hope.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the precise historical backdrop for Psalm 27 remains unstated, its content strongly suggests a period of intense persecution in David's life. Possible scenarios include his relentless pursuit by King Saul, as depicted in books like [1 Samuel 23](/1_samuel/23 "1 Samuel 23 - David Flees Saul"), where David frequently faced betrayal and attempts on his life. Another plausible context is the rebellion of his son Absalom, which involved widespread conspiracy, deceit, and a concerted effort to undermine David's authority and reputation ([2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion")). The explicit mention of "false witnesses" (עֵדֵי שֶׁקֶר, _‘ēḏê šeqer_) points to a legal or public context where one's character and very life could be jeopardized by slander. In ancient Near Eastern societies, a person's honor and standing were intrinsically linked to their public image and the testimony of others. False witness was a grave offense, explicitly prohibited by the [Ninth Commandment](/exodus/20-16 "Exodus 20:16 - The Ninth Commandment"), as it could lead to severe injustice, including wrongful conviction, dispossession, or even execution. The phrase "breathe out cruelty" (יָפֵחַ חָמָס, _yāp̄êaḥ ḥāmās_) vividly conveys the violent and oppressive nature of adversaries whose intent was not merely David's downfall but his utter destruction, reflecting a culture where political and personal conflicts often escalated into brutal and unjust acts.
* **Key Themes:** Psalm 27:12 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Psalter and broader biblical theology. The theme of **Divine Deliverance** is paramount, as David's urgent plea, "Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies," highlights his absolute dependence on God to thwart their malicious designs. This reinforces God's character as the ultimate refuge and Protector, even when human avenues for justice are corrupted or unavailable. The theme of **False Accusation and Injustice** is central, as David explicitly identifies "false witnesses" as a primary threat. This resonates with the recurring biblical motif of the righteous suffering unjustly, a narrative thread seen in figures like [Joseph](/genesis/39-19-20 "Genesis 39:19-20 - Joseph Falsely Accused") and the prophet [Jeremiah](/jeremiah/20-10 "Jeremiah 20:10 - Jeremiah's Persecution"), and ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Finally, the vivid imagery of "such as breathe out cruelty" underscores the **Malice and Violence** inherent in the ungodly, emphasizing their pervasive desire to inflict harm and oppression. This stands in stark contrast to God's steadfast love and justice, reinforcing the psalmist's appeal to a righteous God against a cruel and deceitful world.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **will (Hebrew, _nephesh'_):** From H5315, _nephesh_ is a remarkably versatile word, primarily meaning "a breathing creature" or "vitality," but extending to encompass the entire person, the soul, mind, appetite, or desire. In this context, "the will of mine enemies" refers to their deepest desires, their malicious intentions, their very essence of hostile purpose. David is pleading that he not be abandoned to their complete control or to the fulfillment of their destructive desires for him, which are rooted in their very being.
* **false (Hebrew, _sheqer'_):** From H8267, _sheqer_ denotes an untruth, falsehood, or deception. It implies something that is sham, fraudulent, or a lie. When combined with "witnesses," it specifically points to testimony that is fabricated, distorted, or completely untrue, designed to mislead and harm. David is facing accusations that are not merely mistaken but are deliberately deceptive, aimed at discrediting and destroying him through deceitful means, highlighting the insidious nature of the opposition.
* **cruelty (Hebrew, _châmâç'_):** From H2555, _châmâç_ signifies violence, wrong, or unjust gain. It describes actions and intentions that are oppressive, brutal, and devoid of justice. When paired with "breathe out," it portrays a pervasive, intrinsic malice. It's not just that David's enemies commit acts of cruelty; cruelty is their very atmosphere, their natural inclination, the very essence of their speech and actions. This word emphasizes the aggressive, destructive, and oppressive nature of David's adversaries.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies:"** This opening clause is a fervent, negative imperative, a desperate plea from David to God. The verb "deliver" (H5414, _nâthan_) here means "to give" or "to hand over." David is imploring God not to abandon him, not to allow him to fall into the complete control or malicious designs ("will," _nephesh_) of his adversaries. This reveals David's profound sense of vulnerability and his absolute dependence on God as his sole refuge and defender against those who seek his ruin. It underscores his belief that God has the power to restrain and thwart the intentions of the wicked.
* **"for false witnesses are risen up against me,"** This clause provides the primary justification for David's urgent petition, detailing the specific nature of the threat he faces. "False witnesses" (עֵדֵי שֶׁקֶר, _‘ēḏê šeqer_) indicates that his adversaries are employing deceit and slander, fabricating lies to accuse him unjustly. The phrase "are risen up against me" (קָמוּ בִי, _qāmû bî_, from H6965, _qûwm_) suggests an active, aggressive, and potentially organized effort to malign him. This implies a public or legal context where his reputation, integrity, and perhaps even his life are under direct assault through insidious and unjust means.
* **"and such as breathe out cruelty."** This final clause further characterizes David's enemies, emphasizing their inherent maliciousness and violent intent. The imagery of "breathing out cruelty" (יָפֵחַ חָמָס, _yāp̄êaḥ ḥāmās_, from H3307, _yâphêach_ and H2555, _châmâç_) vividly portrays that violence, oppression, and injustice are not merely actions they commit, but an intrinsic part of their character and expression. It suggests that their very words and intentions are permeated with a desire to inflict harm. This phrase underscores the depth of their animosity and the existential threat they pose, reinforcing the urgency of David's prayer for divine protection against such relentless and destructive forces.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 27:12 employs several powerful literary devices to convey David's anguish and urgent plea. The verse is fundamentally a **Supplication**, a direct and earnest prayer for divine intervention, marking a significant shift in the psalm's tone from confident declaration to desperate appeal. The phrase "Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies" functions as a strong **Negative Imperative**, emphasizing the urgency and dire consequences David anticipates if God does not intervene. The enemies are vividly characterized through **Metaphor** and **Personification** in the striking image of "such as breathe out cruelty." This is not merely stating that they are cruel; it portrays cruelty as an intrinsic, almost atmospheric quality emanating from them, as if their very breath is infused with violence and injustice. This **Hyperbole** effectively conveys the extreme and pervasive nature of their malice. The explicit mention of "false witnesses" highlights the pervasive biblical theme of **Injustice** and **Slander**, a common motif in the Psalms where the righteous are persecuted by the wicked through deceit. The entire verse functions as a poignant **Lament**, expressing deep distress and vulnerability while simultaneously appealing to God's righteous character and power to deliver.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 27:12 profoundly illustrates the biblical theme of the righteous suffering unjustly at the hands of the wicked, yet finding their ultimate refuge and vindication in God. It underscores God's unwavering role as the defender of the innocent and the avenger of injustice, even when human systems fail or are corrupted. David's plea acknowledges that while God permits trials, He is ultimately sovereign over the "will" and malicious designs of enemies and can prevent their destructive plans from coming to full fruition. This verse reinforces the truth that prayer is not merely a comfort but a potent weapon against spiritual and physical assaults, demonstrating a radical dependence on divine power rather than human strength or cunning. It also highlights the reality of spiritual warfare, where adversaries often employ deceit and violence, mirroring the tactics of the ultimate enemy, Satan, who is described as the "father of lies" ([John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Devil, Father of Lies")).
* [Psalm 35:11](/psalms/35-11 "Psalm 35:11 - False Witnesses Rise Up")
* [Psalm 109:2](/psalms/109-2 "Psalm 109:2 - Deceitful and Wicked Mouths")
* [Proverbs 6:16-19](/proverbs/6-16-19 "Proverbs 6:16-19 - Things the Lord Hates")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 27:12 offers a powerful and enduring model for believers navigating periods of slander, false accusations, or relentless opposition. It serves as a profound reminder that even when our integrity is questioned, our reputation is attacked, or our lives are threatened by malicious forces, our primary and most effective recourse is to turn to God in desperate, honest prayer. Like David, we are called to lay bare our specific fears and the precise nature of the injustice before the Lord, trusting that He sees, hears, and is uniquely able to deliver. This verse encourages us to relinquish our attempts to control or manipulate outcomes, instead surrendering to God's sovereignty, acknowledging that His will, not the destructive "will" of our enemies, will ultimately prevail. It fosters profound resilience, reminding us that suffering unjustly is a shared experience among God's people throughout history, and that our divine Defender is faithful to protect, vindicate, and sustain His own, often in ways that transcend our immediate comprehension. In moments when we feel overwhelmed by the pervasive cruelty or deceit in the world, this psalm invites us to lean into God's unfailing justice, compassionate deliverance, and ultimate triumph.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "false witnesses" or forms of slander (whether overt or subtle) might you be facing in your life today, and how does David's prayer encourage you to respond with faith rather than fear?**
* **How does the vivid imagery of enemies "breathing out cruelty" resonate with your experience of opposition or injustice, and what does it reveal about the nature of the spiritual battle we face?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to fully surrender control to God, trusting that He will "not deliver you over to the will of your enemies," even when circumstances seem dire?**
* **How can you cultivate a deeper, more radical reliance on God as your ultimate Defender and Vindicator, especially when human systems of justice or support seem to fail?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean for enemies to "breathe out cruelty" in Psalm 27:12?**

Answer: The phrase "breathe out cruelty" (Hebrew: _yāp̄êaḥ ḥāmās_) is a potent and vivid metaphor. It means that cruelty, violence, and injustice are not merely occasional actions committed by David's enemies, but are deeply ingrained in their character and expressed through their very being and words. It suggests that their intentions are inherently malicious, their words are filled with destructive intent, and their very presence exudes oppression. It paints a picture of pervasive and active malice, indicating a relentless desire to inflict harm and suffering, rather than just opposing David incidentally. This imagery powerfully conveys the intensity and depth of their animosity, highlighting that their cruelty is an intrinsic part of who they are and how they operate.

**How does Psalm 27:12 relate to the broader biblical themes of justice and injustice?**

Answer: Psalm 27:12 is a poignant expression of the theme of injustice that runs throughout the biblical narrative. It highlights the pain of being falsely accused and maliciously attacked, a common experience for righteous individuals in scripture. The Bible consistently portrays God as a God of justice who cares deeply about the oppressed and is committed to vindicating the innocent. From the Mosaic Law's explicit prohibition against false witness ([Exodus 20:16](/exodus/20-16 "Exodus 20:16 - The Ninth Commandment")) to the prophetic denunciations of injustice (e.g., [Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Let Justice Roll Down Like Waters")), God's character is revealed as one who opposes all forms of cruelty and deceit. David's prayer here is a direct appeal to this divine attribute, trusting that God will intervene where human justice fails and ultimately deliver him from the schemes of the wicked. This theme finds its ultimate expression in the suffering and vindication of Jesus Christ, who was himself a victim of false witnesses and cruel injustice ([Matthew 26:59-60](/matthew/26-59-60 "Matthew 26:59-60 - False Testimony Against Jesus")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 27:12, with its desperate cry for deliverance from false witnesses and cruel adversaries, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. David's experience of being slandered and threatened by those who "breathe out cruelty" perfectly foreshadows the unjust trials and crucifixion of the Messiah. Jesus, the perfectly righteous one, was indeed delivered over to the "will of His enemies," enduring the fabricated testimony of "many false witnesses" ([Matthew 26:59-60](/matthew/26-59-60 "Matthew 26:59-60 - False Testimony Against Jesus")) and the cruel, murderous intent of those who cried, "Crucify him!" ([Luke 23:21](/luke/23-21 "Luke 23:21 - Crucify Him!")). Yet, precisely through this ultimate act of being "delivered over" to human and demonic malice, God achieved His greater redemptive purpose. Jesus's suffering was not a sign of divine abandonment, but the very means by which He triumphed over sin, death, and the destructive "will" of the spiritual enemy, Satan ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Jesus Destroys the Devil")). For believers, Christ's victory means that while we may still face false accusations and cruel opposition in this fallen world ([John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - Persecution of Believers")), we are never truly "delivered over" to the ultimate destructive will of our enemies. Through faith in Him, we are eternally secure, having been delivered from the dominion of darkness and transferred to the kingdom of His beloved Son ([Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from Darkness")). Our ultimate deliverance and future vindication are found in Christ, who perfectly endured what David feared, securing our eternal safety and promising that He will ultimately "deliver us from every evil work and preserve us for His heavenly kingdom" ([2 Timothy 4:18](/2_timothy/4-18 "2 Timothy 4:18 - God's Deliverance")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 31:8

And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.

Psalms 41:11

By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me.

Matthew 26:59

Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;

Matthew 26:60

But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, [yet] found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,

Psalms 35:11

¶ False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge [things] that I knew not.

Acts 6:11

Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and [against] God.

Acts 6:13

And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law: