They that sit in the gate speak against me; and I was the song of the drunkards.
Those who sit at the city gate gossip about me, and drunk people make up songs to mock me.
The writer is saying that people from all levels of society - from respected leaders to drunk people - are talking badly about him and making fun of him.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the city gate served as a central hub for public gatherings, legal proceedings, and social interactions, where community leaders and elders would discuss matters and often spread rumors. The psalmist, likely David, is expressing his distress over being slandered by these influential figures, reflecting the common experience of the righteous facing unjust opposition. This verse also highlights the added humiliation of being mocked by drunkards, which underscores the depth of social isolation and ridicule in that culture.
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