Psalms 12:2 - Everyone lies to his neighbor. They speak with flattering lips, and with a double heart.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "Psalms 12:2" mean?
Psalm 12:2 is a powerful statement about the prevalence of deceit and insincerity in human interactions. Let's break down each part of the verse:
"Everyone lies to his neighbor": This sets the stage with a stark and sweeping generalization. It suggests that lying is widespread and common in the community. The term "neighbor" implies those people close to us – friends, family, community members. It is not strangers who this verse is referring to, but the ones closest to you.
"They speak with flattering lips": This highlights the method of deception. "Flattering lips" refers to the use of insincere praise, empty compliments, or exaggerated expressions of agreement. The intent is not genuine appreciation but to manipulate, gain favor, or hide true intentions.
"And with a double heart": This reveals the motivation behind the lying. "Double heart" suggests hypocrisy and a lack of integrity. It indicates that their outward words don't align with their inner thoughts or feelings. They say one thing, but inwardly they mean something else, often something malicious or self-serving.
In essence, the verse is saying that people are not being honest with each other. They are using flattering words to manipulate, while harboring insincere or even malicious intentions in their hearts. It paints a picture of a society where trust is eroded, and genuine relationships are difficult to maintain.
Interpretations and Significance
Social Commentary: The verse can be interpreted as a commentary on the state of society at the time it was written (and, arguably, in many societies throughout history). It laments the lack of honesty and the prevalence of deceit.
Spiritual Critique: The verse also has a spiritual dimension. Lying and deceit are often seen as antithetical to the nature of God, who is truth. The verse can be a call to introspection and a challenge to live with integrity.
Warning: The verse serves as a warning against being naive or overly trusting. It reminds us to be discerning and to look beyond superficial words to understand people's true character.
Call to Honesty: The verse implicitly calls for honesty and sincerity in our relationships. It suggests that a better society is possible if people are willing to speak truthfully and live with integrity.
This verse is a somber reflection on the potential for human deceit and its damaging effects on relationships and society. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty, integrity, and genuine communication.
Psalms 12:2 - Everyone lies to his neighbor. They speak with flattering lips, and with a double heart.
What does "Psalms 12:2" mean?
Psalm 12:2 is a powerful statement about the prevalence of deceit and insincerity in human interactions. Let's break down each part of the verse:
"Everyone lies to his neighbor": This sets the stage with a stark and sweeping generalization. It suggests that lying is widespread and common in the community. The term "neighbor" implies those people close to us – friends, family, community members. It is not strangers who this verse is referring to, but the ones closest to you.
"They speak with flattering lips": This highlights the method of deception. "Flattering lips" refers to the use of insincere praise, empty compliments, or exaggerated expressions of agreement. The intent is not genuine appreciation but to manipulate, gain favor, or hide true intentions.
"And with a double heart": This reveals the motivation behind the lying. "Double heart" suggests hypocrisy and a lack of integrity. It indicates that their outward words don't align with their inner thoughts or feelings. They say one thing, but inwardly they mean something else, often something malicious or self-serving.
In essence, the verse is saying that people are not being honest with each other. They are using flattering words to manipulate, while harboring insincere or even malicious intentions in their hearts. It paints a picture of a society where trust is eroded, and genuine relationships are difficult to maintain.
Interpretations and Significance
Social Commentary: The verse can be interpreted as a commentary on the state of society at the time it was written (and, arguably, in many societies throughout history). It laments the lack of honesty and the prevalence of deceit.
Spiritual Critique: The verse also has a spiritual dimension. Lying and deceit are often seen as antithetical to the nature of God, who is truth. The verse can be a call to introspection and a challenge to live with integrity.
Warning: The verse serves as a warning against being naive or overly trusting. It reminds us to be discerning and to look beyond superficial words to understand people's true character.
Call to Honesty: The verse implicitly calls for honesty and sincerity in our relationships. It suggests that a better society is possible if people are willing to speak truthfully and live with integrity.
This verse is a somber reflection on the potential for human deceit and its damaging effects on relationships and society. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty, integrity, and genuine communication.