Psalms 64:3

"Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, from the noisy crowd of the ones doing evil;"

Key Reflection

In Psalms 64:3, the psalmist cries out for divine protection against those who plot and speak deceitfully—referred to as "the conspiracy of the wicked" and "the noisy crowd of the ones doing evil." This verse reflects a cultural context where such conspiracies were not merely abstract thoughts but often involved vocal opposition and public denigration, making the psalmist's plea for refuge particularly poignant in highlighting the tangible dangers faced by righteous individuals in society.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Who whet their tongue like a sword -Who sharpen their tongue; that is, they utter words that will cut deep, or penetrate the soul. The idea is that of slander or reproach - the same idea which we have in Shakespeare (Cymbeline): “‘Tis slander; Whose edge is sharper than the sword.” This comparison is a favorite one with David. ComparePsalms 52:2;Psalms 57:4;Psalms 59:7. And bend their bows ... -That is, they prepare for this - as they make ready to shoot who bend their bows, and fix their arrows on the string. The idea here is, that this was deliberate, or was the result of counsel and purpose.

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