Psalms 41:6 - If he comes to see me, he speaks falsehood. His heart gathers iniquity to itself. When he goes abroad, he tells it.

Generated Verse: Psalms 41:6

What does "Psalms 41:6" mean?


Psalm 41:6 describes a treacherous friend or enemy who visits the psalmist (likely David) under the guise of concern, but whose intentions are malicious. Let's break down each part of the verse:

"If he comes to see me, he speaks falsehood." This suggests the person visits with apparent concern, perhaps feigning sympathy or offering help. However, their words are deceitful, insincere, and intended to mislead. They are not genuine in their interactions.

"His heart gathers iniquity to itself." While pretending to be friendly, the person secretly harbors evil thoughts and intentions. They are collecting or accumulating wickedness within their heart, plotting harm against the psalmist. They may be storing up information or grievances to use later.

"When he goes abroad, he tells it." After the visit, the person leaves and spreads the falsehoods and gathered iniquity (possibly gossip, slander, or exaggerated truths) to others. They are actively trying to damage the psalmist's reputation and influence.

In summary, the verse paints a picture of a hypocritical individual who:

Pretends to care.
Secretly plots evil.
Spreads malicious lies and gossip.

Contextual Significance:

The context of Psalm 41 is David lamenting his illness and the treachery of his enemies. This verse specifically highlights the hypocrisy and malicious intent of one of those enemies, who uses deception and betrayal to undermine David's position and well-being.

This verse is a stark reminder of the importance of discernment and the dangers of those who appear friendly but harbor malicious intentions. It highlights the pain of betrayal and the damage that can be inflicted by those who speak falsehoods and spread slander.

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