Psalms 120:4

"What will be given to you, and what will be done more to you, you deceitful tongue?"

Key Reflection

In first-century Israel, the phrase "deceitful tongue" (מְרִים הַלָּשׁוֹן) would have been a vivid expression of intense contempt and accusation, referring to speech that is deceptive or treacherous. The verse challenges those who use such language, asking what further harm their deceitful words will bring upon them—a pointed question highlighting the destructive power of falsehood in community and covenant relationships.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Sharp arrows of the mighty -This is an answer to the question inPsalms 120:3. The consequence - the effect - of such a use of the tongue must be like sharp and piercing arrows, or like intensely burning coals. The “sharp arrows of the mighty” are the arrows of the warrior - as war was conducted mainly by bows and arrows. Those arrows were, of course, sharpened to make them piercing, penetrating, more deadly. With coals of juniper -On the word here rendered “juniper,” see the notes atJob 30:4. The idea here is, that coals made from that would be intensely hot, and would cause severer pain than if made from other wood.

More from Psalms 120

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion