But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom.
But when they were sick, I wore rough cloth and mourned for them. I humbled myself by fasting, and I prayed earnestly for them from my heart.
The writer is describing how he genuinely cared for his enemies when they were suffering, praying and fasting for them even though they later turned against him.
📚 Historical Context
This psalm is attributed to David, likely written during a time when he faced betrayal from people he had previously helped and shown kindness to. In ancient times, wearing sackcloth and fasting were common expressions of mourning, grief, or intercession for others. The phrase 'prayer returned into mine own bosom' suggests his prayers were heartfelt and personal, as if he were praying for his own family members.
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