What does Psalm 55:3 mean?

David explains the reason for his distracted anguish and deep distress (Psalm 55:1–2). He lays the blame on evil people—his enemies—who threaten and persecute him. These foes are angry and seek revenge on David. This would be consistent with his experience during the rebellion of Absalom. In that incident, one of David's closest advisors helped David's son, Absalom, attempt a bloody takeover of the throne (2 Samuel 15—18). Scholars suggest Ahithophel, the traitor, may have been the grandfather of Bathsheba, the woman David illegitimately took from her husband (2 Samuel 11:3; 15:12; 23:34). Ahithophel may have acted to avenge his family.

Soldiers might throw stones at their enemy, along with harsh words and insults. In some cases, armies might dislodge boulders, sending them crashing down on the enemy. A somewhat similar expression to "drop trouble" found here occurs in Psalm 140:10: "Let burning coals fall upon them." David felt that his life was in mortal danger from those who held a grudge against him (Psalm 55:4–5). However, he also knew that the Lord had promised to make a great name for him and to give him a dynasty (2 Samuel 7:9, 11). Furthermore, the Lord promised: "And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever" (2 Samuel 7:16). David prays while in a state of shock, not a sense of abandonment.