Psalms 10:10

"He lurks in secret as a lion in his ambush. He lies in wait to catch the helpless. He catches the helpless when he draws him in his net."

Key Reflection

In Psalms 10:10, the psalmist paints a vivid and disturbing picture of an evil person who operates much like a lion in its natural habitat. The term "lion" (Hebrew לְבָנָה, levānāh) is used metaphorically to describe someone ruthless and predatory. This individual secretly lies in wait, setting traps and snares to ensnare his victims, much like a lion might ambush its prey. The imagery conveys the idea of a relentless and cunning adversary who preys on the vulnerable, highlighting the stark contrast between the predator's stealth and the victim's helplessness.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

He croucheth -Margin, “breaketh himself.” Coverdale, “Then smiteth he, then oppresseth he.” Prof. Alexander, “And bruised he will sink.” Horsley, “And the overpowered man submits.” Luther, “He slays, and thrusts down, and presses to the earth the poor with power.” This variety of interpretation arises from some ambiguity in regard to the meaning of the original.

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