What does Psalm 35:20 mean?

Earlier verses noted the idea of enemies using lies and invented accusations (Psalm 35:11). That was in the context of attacks on David, himself (Psalm 35:12–16). Here, David describes the same foes as raising false charges against peaceful people. Though many enemies persecuted David, others in Israel supported him. Here, these are portrayed as quiet people, who honored the Lord and led righteous lives.

In times where many ignored God's will and followed evil leaders (2 Samuel 15:13–14), those who lived in peace and followed God (Lamentations 3:26; Romans 12:18) were a righteous remnant of what Israel was meant to be. Throughout Israel's long history the Lord always preserved at least a handful of those who truly honored Him. Elijah thought he was the only one left, telling God, "I have been very jealous for the LORD, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away" (1 Kings 19:10). However, the Lord responded: "Yet I will leave seven thousand in Israel [a remnant], all the knees that have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him" (1 Kings 19:18).