May the LORD cut off all flattering lips
This phrase reflects a plea for divine intervention against deceitful speech. In biblical context, "flattering lips" are often associated with insincerity and manipulation, as seen in Proverbs 26:28, which warns against the dangers of flattery. The psalmist's request for God to "cut off" such lips indicates a desire for the removal of falsehood and the establishment of truth. Historically, flattery was a common tool in ancient Near Eastern courts to gain favor or manipulate outcomes, making this plea relevant to the cultural context of the time. Theologically, this request aligns with the biblical theme of God as a righteous judge who upholds truth and justice, as seen in Psalm 7:11.

and every boastful tongue
The "boastful tongue" represents arrogance and self-exaltation, which are condemned throughout Scripture. James 3:5-6 warns of the destructive power of the tongue, emphasizing the need for humility and self-control. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, boasting was often linked to pride and a lack of reliance on God, contrasting with the biblical call to trust in the Lord's strength rather than one's own abilities. This phrase also echoes the prophetic theme of God's opposition to the proud, as seen in Isaiah 2:12, where the Lord promises to humble the arrogant. The call for God to act against boastful speech underscores the biblical principle that true wisdom and strength come from God alone, not from human boasting.

1. David
- Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 12, David is expressing a plea for divine intervention against deceitful and arrogant speech.

2. The LORD
- The divine being whom David calls upon to act against those who use their words for evil.

3. Flattering Lips
- Represents individuals who use insincere praise to manipulate or deceive others.

4. Boastful Tongue
- Symbolizes those who speak with arrogance and pride, often elevating themselves above others.

5. The Community of Believers
- The audience who would have originally received this psalm, seeking guidance and protection from deceitful influences.The Power of Words
Words have the power to build up or destroy. As believers, we must be mindful of how we use our speech, ensuring it aligns with God's truth and love.

The Danger of Flattery and Boasting
Flattery and boasting are not just social faux pas; they are spiritually dangerous, leading to pride and deceit. We must seek humility and sincerity in our interactions.

Divine Justice and Accountability
God is aware of all speech and will hold individuals accountable. This should encourage us to seek His help in guarding our tongues and speaking truthfully.

Seeking God's Intervention
Like David, we can pray for God's intervention in situations where deceitful speech is prevalent, trusting in His ability to bring justice and truth.Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 12

Is it sinful to lie?

Psalm 120:4 - Does referring to 'warrior's sharp arrows' and 'burning coals' raise contradictions with a supposedly loving and merciful God?

Psalm 120:2-3 - Is there archaeological or textual evidence that consistently attributes judgment on 'deceitful tongues' in this manner?

What does the Bible teach about controlling speech?(3) The Lord shall.--Translate, May Jehovah cut off.

Proud things.--Literally, great things. Vulg., linguam magniloquam.

Verse 3. - The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips. The complaint having been made, a threat follows (comp. Psalm 10:15; Psalm 11:6; Psalm 17:13, etc.). The men who flatter with their lips, beguiling and cozening their victims to get them completely into their power, shall be "cut off" from the congregation (see Genesis 17:14; Exodus 12:15, 19; Leviticus 7:20, 27; Leviticus 17:10, etc.). And the tongue that speaketh proud things; literally, greet rhinos; but proud and lofty boastings are intended (comp. Daniel 7:8, 20). The same man sometimes cozens with smooth words, sometimes blusters and talks big.

Parallel Commentaries ...


May the LORD
יְ֭הוָה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

cut off
יַכְרֵ֣ת (yaḵ·rêṯ)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect Jussive - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3772: To cut, to destroy, consume, to covenant

all
כָּל־ (kāl-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

flattering
חֲלָק֑וֹת (ḥă·lā·qō·wṯ)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 2513: Smoothness, flattery, an allotment

lips,
שִׂפְתֵ֣י (śip̄·ṯê)
Noun - fdc
Strong's 8193: The lip, language, a margin

and the tongue
לָ֝שׁ֗וֹן (lā·šō·wn)
Noun - common singular
Strong's 3956: The tongue

that speaks
מְדַבֶּ֥רֶת (mə·ḏab·be·reṯ)
Verb - Piel - Participle - feminine singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

proud things.
גְּדֹלֽוֹת׃ (gə·ḏō·lō·wṯ)
Adjective - feminine plural
Strong's 1419: Great, older, insolent


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OT Poetry: Psalm 12:3 May Yahweh cut off all flattering lips (Psalm Ps Psa.)