What does Psalm 56:1 mean?

This psalm corresponds to David's experience in the Philistine city of Gath (1 Samuel 21:10–15). David was desperate to escape the murderous jealousy of Saul (1 Samuel 19:1–2; 22:17–19). David likely calculated he would be safer in Philistine territory, where they would see him as a supposed rebel against Saul, than to hide in Israel. When he was recognized, David pretended to be insane so the Philistine king would leave him alone. He then escaped once again (1 Samuel 22:1). Gath was the home city of the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:4), the Philistine champion slain by David (1 Samuel 17:48–51).

In Gath, David found harsh treatment. Perhaps this came only during the time he feigned insanity, and he was praying for endurance. Or this may be referring to the persecution of Saul and his followers. Most likely, David is referring to his situation at large. Both Philistines and Israelites were against him. Their mockery (Psalm 56:2) contrasts with the praise David received when he and the Israelite army were returning home from his victory over Goliath. First Samuel 18:6 reports that "the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with songs of joy, and with musical instruments." But their celebration honored David more than Saul. They sang, "Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7; cf. 1 Samuel 21:11).

This psalm's title notes the "choirmaster," probably meaning the person in charge of worship and music. "The Dove on Far-Off Terebinths," or yo'nat ē'lem rehōqim, was likely a well-known tune; David set the words of his psalm to that melody. This is also described as a miktām, as are Psalms 16 and Psalms 57—60. Isaiah 38:9 applies a similar word to the words of Hezekiah after recovering from his sickness. The exact meaning of "miktam" or "mikhtam" is unclear; most likely, it refers to a style of music.