◄ Psalm 64 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Hurtful Tongue (James 3:1–12) For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. 1 Hear, O God, my voice of complaint; preserve my life from dread of the enemy. 2Hide me from the scheming of the wicked, from the mob of workers of iniquity, 3who sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows, 4ambushing the innocent in seclusion, shooting suddenly, without fear. 5They hold fast to their evil purpose; they speak of hiding their snares. “Who will see them?” they say. 6They devise injustice and say, “We have perfected a secret plan.” For the inner man and the heart are mysterious. 7But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded. 8They will be made to stumble, their own tongues turned against them. All who see will shake their heads. 9Then all mankind will fear and proclaim the work of God; so they will ponder what He has done. 10Let the righteous rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in Him; let all the upright in heart exult. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 64 Summary The Hurtful Tongue Verses 1–2 – Cry for Protection David urgently asks God to hear his voice, keep him safe from panic, and hide him from the secret plotting crowd that is bent on evil. Verses 3–6 – Hidden Weapons of the Wicked The attackers use words like sharpened swords and arrows, launching verbal ambushes from cover. They plan together, set traps, and boast that no one will ever uncover their schemes. Verse 7 – God’s Counter-strike Suddenly God shoots His own arrows—swift, decisive judgment—and the plotters are wounded before they can escape. Verses 8–9 – Public Exposure and Fear of God The conspirators stumble; their own tongues ruin them. Witnesses shake their heads, recognize God’s work, and stand in awe. Verse 10 – Celebration of the Righteous The upright rejoice, find refuge in the LORD, and shout for joy because justice has been served. Psalm 64, a poignant prayer composed by David, delves deep into the human struggle against wickedness and the faithful assurance of God's protection and justice. It paints a vivid picture of evil plots, pleads earnestly for divine protection, and culminates in a triumphant celebration of divine justice, filling the hearts of the righteous with renewed faith and hope. Authorship and Setting Superscription: “For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.” Written by David for corporate worship. The tone suggests a time of covert hostility, possibly Saul’s relentless pursuit (1 Samuel 23–24) or Absalom’s quiet conspiracy (2 Samuel 15). Both seasons featured whispering councils, hidden snares, and sudden attacks on David’s reputation. Structure and Flow 1. Petition (vv. 1–2) 2. Description of enemy tactics (vv. 3–6) 3. Divine intervention (v. 7) 4. Resulting reversal (vv. 8–9) 5. Confident praise (v. 10) The psalm moves from fear to faith, from secrecy to exposure, ending in corporate joy. Images and Word Pictures • “Sharpen their tongues like swords” – cutting, intentional speech (Jeremiah 9:8). • “Bitter words like arrows” – projectiles that travel farther than the speaker’s presence (Proverbs 25:18). • “Hide me” – a plea echoed in Psalm 27:5; the safest shelter is God Himself. • God’s arrows (v. 7) answer the enemy’s arrows (v. 3), turning the metaphor back on the attackers (Psalm 18:14). Enemies Described • Secretive: “scheming,” “ambush,” “snare.” • Corporate: “mob,” “they hold fast together.” • Boastful: “Who will see them?” echoes the fool’s mindset of Psalm 10:11. • Skilled at slander: verbal poison targets reputations, marriages, and alliances (James 3:5–6). Divine Answer • Sudden: God does not negotiate; He strikes. • Precise: “God will shoot them with arrows.” Exact retribution mirrors their own methods (Galatians 6:7). • Public: The outcome is visible to “all mankind,” fulfilling Deuteronomy 32:35–36. Links to Other Scriptures • 1 Samuel 24: David hides in a cave as Saul plots in secret. • Psalm 7:15–16; 57:6 – pits the wicked dig become their own downfall. • Ephesians 6:16 – believers use the shield of faith against “flaming arrows of the evil one.” • Revelation 19:11 – Christ judges with a sharp sword of His mouth, the ultimate end of slanderers. Prophetic Echoes The Messiah also faced covert plotting (Matthew 26:3–4). Verse 8’s “their own tongues turned against them” foreshadows the Sanhedrin’s contradictions that exposed their guilt (Mark 14:55–59). God’s sudden vindication of the righteous points to the resurrection, where the plots of men crumbled overnight. Practical Takeaways • Verbal assaults can feel as lethal as physical ones; God treats them seriously. • When schemes are hidden, trust that God sees (Hebrews 4:13). • Delay is not denial; divine arrows fly in perfect timing. • Rejoicing is appropriate once God acts; celebration underscores faith in His justice. Archaeological Notes • Bronze-age arrows recovered in the Judean wilderness show barbed heads, designed to inflict lasting wounds—an apt image for cutting words. • Ancient council chambers in city gates provided secluded meeting spots for conspirators, matching the “secret counsel” language. • Inscriptions from surrounding nations mock enemy kings, illustrating that public shaming was a common method of defeat—“all who see will shake their heads.” Musical and Liturgical Use Marked “For the choirmaster,” the psalm was likely sung in communal worship, perhaps during morning sacrifices when enemies were most active in court politics. Its movement from plea to praise makes it suitable for processional use: beginning in a minor key, resolving in triumphant major chords. Key Themes Recap • God hears whispered plots. • Words can wound, but God can reverse. • Judgment can be sudden and public. • Righteous joy is rooted in the Lord’s shelter. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 91:1-2 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, 'You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' Proverbs 18:21 Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.' Teaching Points David's Cry for Help The psalm begins with David's earnest plea for God to hear his voice and protect him from the dread of the enemy (Psalm 64:1). This highlights the importance of turning to God in times of fear and uncertainty. The Schemes of the Wicked Verses 2-6 describe the secret plots and malicious words of David's enemies. They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim bitter words like arrows (Psalm 64:3), illustrating the destructive power of words and deceit. God's Intervention In verses 7-9, the psalm shifts to God's response. But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded (Psalm 64:7). This assures believers that God is just and will ultimately bring about the downfall of the wicked. The Righteous Rejoice The psalm concludes with the righteous rejoicing in the Lord and taking refuge in Him (Psalm 64:10). This emphasizes the joy and security found in God's protection and justice. Practical Applications Seek God's Protection In times of trouble, make it a habit to turn to God first, seeking His protection and guidance. Guard Your Words Be mindful of the power of words. Strive to speak truth and encouragement rather than deceit and harm. Trust in God's Justice Remember that God sees all and will bring justice in His perfect timing. Trust in His sovereignty over your circumstances. Rejoice in God's Deliverance Celebrate and share testimonies of God's faithfulness and deliverance in your life, encouraging others to trust in Him. People 1. David The author of the psalm, traditionally identified as King David. He is the one praying for protection and deliverance from his enemies. The psalm is attributed to him in the superscription. 2. Enemies These are the adversaries of David, described as wicked and evildoers. They are characterized by their secretive and malicious plans against the righteous. The Hebrew term used for "enemies" can be linked to those who are hostile or adversarial. 3. The Righteous While not explicitly named, the righteous are implied as those who will rejoice and take refuge in the LORD when He brings justice. They are contrasted with the wicked and are the beneficiaries of God's protection. 4. The LORD God is the central figure who hears David's prayer and acts against the wicked. He is depicted as the protector and deliverer of the righteous. The Hebrew name used here is "YHWH," which is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and power. Places 1. The Secret Place This refers to the hidden or secretive areas where the wicked plot against the righteous. In Hebrew, the term used can imply a concealed or private location, emphasizing the clandestine nature of their schemes. 2. The Heart While not a physical location, the heart is described as a place where evil plans are devised. In Hebrew, "heart" (לֵב, lev) often represents the inner self or mind, where intentions and thoughts originate. 3. The Arrows Symbolically, arrows represent the words and attacks of the wicked. The imagery of arrows being shot from a hidden place suggests a surprise attack, emphasizing the stealth and deceit of the adversaries. 4. The Righteous' Refuge Although not explicitly named as a place, the concept of God as a refuge or safe haven is a recurring theme. This "place" is where the righteous find protection and deliverance from their enemies. Events 1. David's Plea for Protection David begins the psalm by asking God to hear his voice and protect his life from the threat of the enemy. ^"Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint; preserve my life from dread of the enemy."^ (Psalm 64:1) The Hebrew word for "preserve" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies a request for guarding or keeping safe. 2. Request for Deliverance from Conspirators David asks to be hidden from the secret plots of the wicked and the tumult of evildoers. ^"Hide me from the scheming of the wicked, from the mob of workers of iniquity,"^ (Psalm 64:2) The term "scheming" (סוֹד, sod) refers to secret counsel or conspiracy. 3. Description of the Enemies' Actions The enemies sharpen their tongues like swords and aim bitter words like arrows. ^"who sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows,"^ (Psalm 64:3) The imagery of "sharpen" (שָׁנַן, shanan) suggests preparation for attack. 4. Sudden and Secret Attacks They shoot from ambush at the innocent, shooting suddenly and without fear. ^"ambushing the innocent in seclusion, shooting suddenly, without fear."^ (Psalm 64:4) The word "ambush" (מַחְבֵּא, machbe) indicates a hidden or secret attack. 5. Encouragement in Evil Plans The enemies encourage each other in evil plans and talk of laying snares secretly. ^"They hold fast to their evil purpose; they speak of laying snares secretly, saying, 'Who will see them?'"^ (Psalm 64:5) The phrase "hold fast" (חָזַק, chazaq) implies a strong commitment to their wicked intentions. 6. Concealment of Their Schemes They devise injustices and say they have perfected a cunning plan. ^"They devise injustice and say, 'We have perfected a secret plan.' For the inner man and the heart are mysterious."^ (Psalm 64:6) The term "devise" (חָפַר, chaphar) means to plot or plan. 7. God's Intervention God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded. ^"But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded."^ (Psalm 64:7) The suddenness of God's action mirrors the enemies' own tactics. 8. Retribution and Confusion Their own tongues will bring them to ruin, and all who see them will shake their heads. ^"They will be made to stumble, their own tongues turning against them; all who see will shake their heads."^ (Psalm 64:8) The phrase "made to stumble" (כָּשַׁל, kashal) indicates a downfall or failure. 9. Fear and Proclamation of God's Works All mankind will fear and proclaim the work of God, pondering what He has done. ^"Then all mankind will fear and proclaim the work of God; they will ponder what He has done."^ (Psalm 64:9) The word "ponder" (שָׂכַל, sakal) suggests careful consideration or insight. 10. Rejoicing of the Righteous The righteous will rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in Him, and all the upright in heart will glory. ^"Let the righteous rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in Him; let all the upright in heart exult."^ (Psalm 64:10) The term "rejoice" (שָׂמַח, samach) conveys joy and gladness in God's deliverance. Lessons from Psalm 64 1. Seek Refuge in God In times of trouble, Psalm 64 reminds us to turn to God as our ultimate refuge. The psalmist begins by asking, "Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint; preserve my life from dread of the enemy" (Psalm 64:1). This teaches us that when we face challenges, we should first and foremost bring our concerns to God, trusting in His protection and care. 2. Recognize the Power of Words Words can be as sharp as arrows, and Psalm 64 highlights the destructive power of malicious speech. "They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows" (Psalm 64:3). This serves as a reminder to be mindful of our own words and to seek God's wisdom in how we communicate with others. 3. Trust in God's Justice The psalmist assures us that God sees the schemes of the wicked and will bring justice in His time. "But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded" (Psalm 64:7). This encourages us to trust in God's righteous judgment and not to take matters into our own hands. 4. The Power of Prayer Prayer is a powerful tool for the believer, as demonstrated by the psalmist's earnest plea for help. By bringing our concerns to God, we align ourselves with His will and invite His intervention in our lives. This lesson encourages us to make prayer a central part of our daily routine. 5. God's Sovereignty Over All Psalm 64 reminds us of God's ultimate control over every situation. "All mankind will fear and proclaim the work of God; so they will ponder what He has done" (Psalm 64:9). This reassures us that no matter how chaotic life may seem, God is sovereign and His purposes will prevail. 6. The Importance of Righteous Living The psalmist contrasts the wicked with the righteous, highlighting the blessings that come from living a life that honors God. "The righteous will rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in Him; all the upright in heart will exult" (Psalm 64:10). This encourages us to pursue righteousness and find joy in our relationship with God. 7. God Hears Our Cries Psalm 64 begins with a heartfelt cry for help, reminding us that God is attentive to our prayers. "Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint" (Psalm 64:1). This assures us that no matter how small or large our concerns, God is listening and ready to respond. 8. The Futility of Evil Plans The psalmist illustrates the futility of the wicked's schemes, as God ultimately thwarts their plans. "Their own tongues will ruin them; all who see them will shake their heads" (Psalm 64:8). This teaches us that evil may seem to prosper for a time, but it will not prevail against God's purposes. 9. Encouragement in Community The psalm concludes with a vision of the righteous rejoicing together. "All the upright in heart will exult" (Psalm 64:10). This highlights the importance of community and fellowship among believers, encouraging us to support and uplift one another in our faith journeys. 10. Rejoice in God's Faithfulness Ultimately, Psalm 64 calls us to rejoice in God's faithfulness and protection. The psalmist's confidence in God's deliverance inspires us to celebrate His goodness and to trust in His unfailing love. Let us take heart in knowing that God is always with us, guiding and protecting us every step of the way. Topics 1. Prayer for Protection The psalm begins with a plea for God to hear the psalmist's voice and protect him from the threats of enemies. The Hebrew root for "protect" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies guarding or keeping safe. ^Reference: Psalm 64:1 - "Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint; preserve my life from dread of the enemy."^ 2. Conspiracy of the Wicked The psalmist describes the secretive and malicious plans of the wicked, who plot against the righteous. The Hebrew word for "conspire" (סוֹד, sod) suggests a secret counsel or assembly. ^Reference: Psalm 64:2 - "Hide me from the scheming of the wicked, from the mob of workers of iniquity."^ 3. Use of Words as Weapons The enemies are depicted as using their tongues like swords and arrows, indicating the power and harm of their words. The Hebrew term for "tongue" (לָשׁוֹן, lashon) often symbolizes speech or language. ^Reference: Psalm 64:3 - "who sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows,"^ 4. Sudden Attack on the Innocent The wicked attack the innocent without fear, highlighting their boldness and lack of conscience. The Hebrew root for "attack" (יָרָה, yarah) can mean to shoot or throw. ^Reference: Psalm 64:4 - "ambushing the innocent in seclusion, shooting suddenly, without fear."^ 5. Confidence in Evil Plans The wicked are confident in their evil schemes, believing they are hidden from God and others. The Hebrew word for "scheme" (חָשַׁב, chashab) implies devising or planning. ^Reference: Psalm 64:5-6 - "They hold fast to their evil purpose; they speak of hiding their snares. 'Who will see them?' they say."^ 6. Divine Retribution God intervenes, turning the wicked's own weapons against them, demonstrating His justice and power. The Hebrew root for "shoot" (יָרָה, yarah) is used again, this time describing God's action. ^Reference: Psalm 64:7 - "But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded."^ 7. Fear and Acknowledgment of God The psalm concludes with a call for all people to fear God and recognize His works, leading to praise and reverence. The Hebrew word for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) conveys awe and respect. ^Reference: Psalm 64:9 - "Then all mankind will fear and proclaim the work of God; so they will ponder what He has done."^ 8. Rejoicing of the Righteous The righteous are encouraged to rejoice and take refuge in the Lord, celebrating His deliverance and justice. The Hebrew root for "rejoice" (שָׂמַח, samach) means to be glad or joyful. ^Reference: Psalm 64:10 - "Let the righteous rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in Him; let all the upright in heart exult."^ Themes 1. Cry for Divine Protection The psalm begins with a plea for God to hear the psalmist's voice and protect him from the threat of the enemy. The Hebrew word for "protect" (שָׁמַר, shamar) conveys a sense of guarding or keeping safe, emphasizing the psalmist's reliance on God's safeguarding presence. Psalm 64:1 states, "Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint; preserve my life from dread of the enemy." 2. The Schemes of the Wicked The psalmist describes the secretive and malicious plans of the wicked, who "sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows" (Psalm 64:3). The imagery of weapons highlights the destructive power of their words and intentions. The Hebrew root for "sharpen" (לָטַשׁ, latash) suggests preparation and intent to harm. 3. The Fearlessness of the Wicked The wicked are portrayed as emboldened in their evil, acting without fear of consequences. Psalm 64:5 notes, "They hold fast to their evil purpose; they talk of laying snares secretly, thinking, 'Who can see them?'" This reflects a false sense of security and impunity, rooted in the Hebrew concept of secrecy (סָתַר, sathar). 4. Divine Retribution The psalmist expresses confidence that God will intervene and bring justice. Psalm 64:7 declares, "But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded." The suddenness of God's action underscores His sovereignty and the certainty of divine justice, with the Hebrew word for "suddenly" (פִּתְאֹם, pit'om) indicating an unexpected and decisive intervention. 5. The Fear of the Lord The outcome of God's judgment leads to a renewed fear and reverence for Him among the people. Psalm 64:9 states, "Then all mankind will fear and proclaim the work of God; so they will ponder what He has done." The Hebrew root for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) encompasses awe and reverence, highlighting the impact of witnessing God's righteous acts. 6. Rejoicing of the Righteous The psalm concludes with the righteous rejoicing in the Lord and taking refuge in Him. Psalm 64:10 affirms, "The righteous will rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in Him; all the upright in heart will glory." The Hebrew word for "rejoice" (שָׂמַח, samach) conveys joy and gladness, reflecting the security and satisfaction found in God's protection and justice. Prayer Points Pray for Protection Ask God to protect you from the schemes of the enemy and to give you peace amidst trials. Pray for Wisdom Seek God's wisdom to use your words wisely and to speak life into the lives of others. Pray for Justice Intercede for those who are oppressed or wronged, asking God to bring justice and righteousness. Pray for Joy Thank God for His deliverance and ask for a heart that rejoices in His faithfulness and protection. As we reflect on Psalm 64, may we be encouraged to trust in God's justice and protection, finding peace and joy in His presence. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Psalm 64:7’s portrayal of God shooting enemies with arrows be reconciled with a God described as loving in other scriptures? 2. What historical or archaeological evidence verifies the secret plots mentioned in Psalm 64:2, especially regarding divine intervention? 3. How does the confident expectation in Psalm 64:9 align with the countless instances of righteous people suffering without apparent deliverance? 4. Why does Psalm 64 emphasize divine retribution if modern scientific inquiry finds no verifiable evidence of such supernatural defense? 5. What proof exists that David truly authored Psalm 64, given the lack of concrete historical records to confirm its original context? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does David describe the wicked in verses 3-6? How does this depiction influence your understanding of evil? 2. In verses 1-2, David asks for God's protection. How can we apply this in our own life when faced with adversity? 3. How does the Psalmist's portrayal of God's divine intervention (verses 7-10) provide comfort in facing our own fears and struggles? 4. How can we find hope in the celebration of the righteous in verse 10? 5. Psalm 64 illustrates the triumph of righteousness over wickedness. How does this Psalm resonate with your own experiences? 6. How does Psalm 64 encourage you to deal with wickedness around you in the present day? 7. How can we adopt David's faithfulness in our daily lives, amidst our own struggles? 8. How does Psalm 64 redefine your perspective on justice? 9. In what ways can we apply David's approach towards the wicked in our own interactions? 10. How does this Psalm contribute to your understanding of prayer as a tool for protection? 11. What personal revelations have you experienced while studying Psalm 64? 12. How does the certainty of God's justice, as portrayed in this Psalm, influence your faith and day-to-day life? 13. How does the comparison between the wicked's arrows and God's arrows in Psalm 64 serve to highlight God's power? 14. How can Psalm 64 guide us when we face secret plots or hidden wickedness in our lives? 15. What lessons does Psalm 64 offer regarding dealing with the aftermath of wickedness or injustice? 16. How does the Psalmist's reaction to God's intervention (verse 10) inspire you in your faith journey? 17. How can you use Psalm 64 as a prayer template in your current life situation? 18. How can the shift from fear (verse 1) to faith and celebration (verse 10) in Psalm 64 inspire you in your spiritual growth? 19. Psalm 64 ends on a hopeful note with the righteous rejoicing. How can we maintain this perspective in times of personal turmoil? 20. What are some practical ways you can apply the teachings of Psalm 64 in your interactions with others in your community? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions