Psalms 17:12 - He is like a lion that is greedy of his prey, as it were a young lion lurking in secret places.

Generated Verse: Psalms 17:12

What does "Psalms 17:12" mean?


Psalm 17:12, "He is like a lion that is greedy of his prey, as it were a young lion lurking in secret places," is a metaphorical description of the wicked or the speaker's enemy. Here's a breakdown of what it means:

"He is like a lion that is greedy of his prey": This describes the insatiable desire and aggressive nature of the enemy. A lion, known for its strength and predatory instincts, is driven by a powerful hunger for its prey. Similarly, the wicked are depicted as being driven by an insatiable desire for what they want, whether it's power, wealth, or the suffering of others. This greed fuels their actions.

"as it were a young lion lurking in secret places": This adds to the image of danger and deceit. A young lion hiding in wait suggests:

Concealed danger: The enemy is not always open about their intentions but lies in wait, planning their attack in secret.
Vulnerability and potential ferocity: While young, the lion is still dangerous and possesses the inherent predatory nature of its kind. It implies the enemy's potential for violence and the ruthlessness they will employ once they strike.
Stealth and cunning: Lurking implies a deliberate strategy of watching and waiting for the opportune moment to pounce on their victim.

In essence, the verse uses the imagery of a lion to convey that the wicked are:

Predatory: They seek to devour and exploit others.
Aggressive: They are driven by a powerful and destructive desire.
Deceitful: They hide their true intentions and strike when their victims are most vulnerable.

Context within Psalm 17: Understanding the verse also requires looking at the broader context of the Psalm. David is praying for deliverance from his enemies, whom he perceives as wicked and relentless. This verse serves to illustrate the dangerous and malicious nature of those enemies, highlighting the urgent need for God's protection. The "lion" metaphor would have been particularly potent for David, a shepherd familiar with the dangers posed by wild animals.

In conclusion, Psalm 17:12 is a vivid metaphor describing the wicked as being like a predatory, greedy, and deceitful lion lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce on its prey. It emphasizes the danger they pose and the need for divine intervention.

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