Psalm 57:6

They spread a net for my feet; my soul was despondent. They dug a pit before me, but they themselves have fallen into it! Selah

Study Bible

They spread a net for my feet;
This phrase reflects a common metaphor in ancient Near Eastern literature, where enemies are depicted as hunters setting traps for their prey. The imagery of a net suggests a deliberate and cunning attempt to ensnare the psalmist. In biblical context, this can be seen as a representation of the schemes and plots of adversaries against the righteous. The net is often used in Scripture to symbolize the deceitful plans of the wicked (e.g., Psalm 140:5). This imagery is also reminiscent of the spiritual warfare described in Ephesians 6:11, where believers are warned to stand against the schemes of the devil.

my soul was despondent.
The psalmist's expression of despondency indicates a deep emotional and spiritual struggle. This reflects the human experience of feeling overwhelmed by adversity and opposition. In the historical context, David, the attributed author of this psalm, often faced life-threatening situations, such as when he fled from Saul. The despondency here can be likened to the "valley of the shadow of death" mentioned in Psalm 23:4, where the psalmist relies on God's presence for comfort. This phrase also connects to the New Testament, where Jesus experienced deep sorrow in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:38), highlighting the shared human experience of distress.

They dug a pit before me,
The act of digging a pit is another metaphor for the malicious intentions of the psalmist's enemies. In ancient times, pits were used as traps for animals or as prisons for captives. This imagery suggests premeditated harm and echoes other biblical passages where the wicked are described as setting traps for the righteous (e.g., Psalm 7:15). The pit can also symbolize the grave or Sheol, representing the ultimate threat of death. This phrase underscores the persistent danger faced by the psalmist, akin to the threats faced by Jesus during His earthly ministry.

but they themselves have fallen into it!
This statement reveals a reversal of fortune, a common theme in biblical literature where the plans of the wicked backfire. It reflects the justice of God, who turns the schemes of the wicked against them, as seen in Proverbs 26:27. This divine retribution is a recurring theme in the Psalms, where the righteous are vindicated by God's intervention. Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's victory over sin and death, where the ultimate trap set by Satan—crucifixion—becomes the means of salvation for humanity.

Selah
The term "Selah" is often interpreted as a pause for reflection or a musical interlude. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it serves as an invitation for the reader or listener to contemplate the preceding verses. In this context, it encourages reflection on the faithfulness of God in delivering the righteous from the schemes of the wicked. This pause allows for meditation on the themes of divine justice and protection, reinforcing the assurance that God is in control, even amidst adversity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of this psalm, David is expressing his trust in God amidst persecution. This psalm is traditionally linked to the time when David fled from Saul and hid in a cave.

2. Enemies
The adversaries of David who are plotting against him, symbolized by the spreading of a net and digging of a pit.

3. Cave of Adullam
While not mentioned directly in this verse, the context of the psalm is often associated with David's time hiding in the Cave of Adullam, a place of refuge and reflection.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
Trust in God's justice, knowing that He sees the schemes of the wicked and will ultimately bring about justice.

Faith in Adversity
Like David, we can find solace in God during times of persecution or when others plot against us. Our response should be one of faith and patience.

The Pitfall of Malice
Those who plot evil against others often fall into their own traps. This serves as a warning against harboring malice or deceit.

Selah - Pause and Reflect
The use of "Selah" invites us to pause and reflect on God's faithfulness and the assurance of His protection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's experience in Psalm 57:6 encourage us to respond to personal attacks or adversities in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the theme of divine justice in Psalm 57:6 connect with other biblical passages, such as Proverbs 26:27?

3. How can we apply the principle of "falling into one's own pit" to our daily interactions and relationships?

4. What does the use of "Selah" in this verse suggest about the importance of reflection in our spiritual journey?

5. How can the account of David in 1 Samuel 24 inspire us to trust in God's timing and justice rather than seeking revenge?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 7:15-16
This passage also speaks of the wicked falling into the pit they have made, highlighting a recurring theme of divine justice.

Proverbs 26:27
This proverb echoes the idea that those who dig a pit for others will fall into it themselves, reinforcing the concept of retributive justice.

1 Samuel 24
The account of David sparing Saul's life in the cave, demonstrating David's reliance on God's justice rather than taking matters into his own hands.