Definition: For I have heard the slander of many: fear [was] on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 31:13. It’s a really powerful and emotional passage about feeling overwhelmed by negativity and danger. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a time when the speaker felt incredibly threatened and anxious. They were constantly being criticized, feared, and even plotted against. Basically, they were experiencing a lot of negativity surrounding them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For I have heard the slander of many…” – This means the speaker listened to people talking badly about them. It wasn't just one person; it was a chorus of negative comments and opinions. “…fear [was] on every side:” – This is key! The fear wasn’t just a little bit – it was everywhere . Everyone around the speaker was afraid of them. It painted a picture of intense anxiety and dread. “While they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.” – This is the core of the problem. The people who were criticizing him weren’t just talking at him; they were actively planning to harm him! They were scheming to kill or ruin him. What's the overall message? This verse highlights a very difficult situation: being constantly criticized and threatened can be incredibly damaging. It speaks to the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of negativity, where you’re always under attack. It also suggests a deep sense of vulnerability and fear. In short, it's about experiencing extreme anxiety and danger because of the negative opinions of others. Important Note: Psalm 31 is often interpreted as reflecting David’s own struggles with feelings of despair and anxiety during a difficult time in his life. It shows how powerful negative influences can impact our well-being. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Psalm 31? Discuss the meaning of this verse within a broader context (like its connection to David’s situation)?