Psalms 140:3 - They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent. Viper’s poison is under their lips. Selah.
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What does "Psalms 140:3" mean?
Psalm 140:3 describes the wicked and their speech as being harmful and poisonous. Let's break down the imagery:
"They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent.": This suggests that the wicked have carefully honed their words to be like a serpent's fangs – sharp, piercing, and designed to inflict pain or damage. It implies deliberate maliciousness and skill in using language to attack and wound others.
"Viper’s poison is under their lips.": A viper's poison is deadly. This vivid image suggests that behind the words of the wicked lies a venomous intent. Their words are not just unkind, but actively harmful, designed to destroy reputations, relationships, or even lives. "Under their lips" might also suggest that they are concealing this venomous intent, making their words seem innocent on the surface while carrying a dangerous undertone.
"Selah.": This is a Hebrew term often found in the Psalms. Its exact meaning is debated, but it's generally understood as a pause or interlude for reflection. In this context, it encourages the reader to pause and contemplate the severity of the wicked's words and the danger they pose. It's a moment to reflect on the impact of poisonous speech and the need to be aware of such behavior.
In summary, the verse depicts the wicked as using their words as weapons, carefully crafted and filled with venomous intent, capable of inflicting significant harm. The "Selah" urges reflection on the destructive power of such speech.
The verse emphasizes the importance of being cautious of what people say and recognizing that words can be just as damaging as physical actions. It also contrasts with the idea of using our tongues for good – for encouragement, truth, and kindness.
Psalms 140:3 - They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent. Viper’s poison is under their lips. Selah.
What does "Psalms 140:3" mean?
Psalm 140:3 describes the wicked and their speech as being harmful and poisonous. Let's break down the imagery:
"They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent.": This suggests that the wicked have carefully honed their words to be like a serpent's fangs – sharp, piercing, and designed to inflict pain or damage. It implies deliberate maliciousness and skill in using language to attack and wound others.
"Viper’s poison is under their lips.": A viper's poison is deadly. This vivid image suggests that behind the words of the wicked lies a venomous intent. Their words are not just unkind, but actively harmful, designed to destroy reputations, relationships, or even lives. "Under their lips" might also suggest that they are concealing this venomous intent, making their words seem innocent on the surface while carrying a dangerous undertone.
"Selah.": This is a Hebrew term often found in the Psalms. Its exact meaning is debated, but it's generally understood as a pause or interlude for reflection. In this context, it encourages the reader to pause and contemplate the severity of the wicked's words and the danger they pose. It's a moment to reflect on the impact of poisonous speech and the need to be aware of such behavior.
In summary, the verse depicts the wicked as using their words as weapons, carefully crafted and filled with venomous intent, capable of inflicting significant harm. The "Selah" urges reflection on the destructive power of such speech.
The verse emphasizes the importance of being cautious of what people say and recognizing that words can be just as damaging as physical actions. It also contrasts with the idea of using our tongues for good – for encouragement, truth, and kindness.