A dark reality of human relationships involves the sharp contrast between outward flattery and hidden hatred. Enemies often plot to tear down a person from a position of honor, hiding their true intentions behind a mask of deceit and fake support.
The primary approach among commentators is that the target of these plots is David, specifically his rising power and greatness. His enemies are terrified that he will eventually rule and take revenge, driving them to scheme for his downfall [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Others suggest the pride belongs to the enemies themselves, whose arrogance fuels their desire to eliminate him [מצודת דוד]. A different perspective ties the situation to King Saul. The enemies claim they are hunting David only because they fear the king, using his royal authority as an excuse, though their actions actually stem from their own deep, independent hatred [מלבי״ם]. Taking a spiritual view, some interpret this greatness as belonging to God. In this light, the wicked ignore God's presence or try to pull others away from faith, foolishly believing He is blind to the thoughts in their hearts [רד״ק, מאירי, אלשיך].
The ultimate goal of these attackers is to completely reject and cast out their victim, an action compared to easily pushing over a weak, shaky fence [אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Because they cannot always attack openly, they resort to falsehood, eagerly embracing and spreading fake accusations [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. These lies are fundamentally disappointing and empty, much like a natural spring that suddenly dries up and fails to provide water [מצודת ציון].
The absolute peak of this hypocrisy is seen in how these enemies present themselves. Outwardly, each individual offers fake blessings and empty praise, yet deep inside, they are all united by a shared, collective hatred [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. Another view suggests that the outward speech is actually a show put on for King Saul; the enemies pretend to care for David simply because the king ordered them to spy on him, while secretly cursing him [מלבי״ם]. On a spiritual level, this two-faced behavior describes those who pray and bless God in public, but secretly harbor disbelief and attribute falsehood to Him [מאירי, רד״ק].