They sharpen their tongues like snakes;This phrase uses the imagery of a snake to describe the malicious intent and deceitful speech of the wicked. In biblical times, snakes were often associated with danger and cunning, as seen in
Genesis 3 with the serpent in the Garden of Eden. The sharpening of tongues suggests a deliberate preparation to harm others through words, much like a weapon being honed for battle. This metaphor highlights the destructive power of speech, a theme echoed in
James 3:8, where the tongue is described as "a restless evil, full of deadly poison." The comparison to snakes also evokes the idea of hidden threats, as snakes often strike unexpectedly, paralleling the deceitful nature of those who use their words to harm.
the venom of vipers is on their lips.
The mention of "venom" emphasizes the lethal potential of harmful words. Vipers, known for their deadly bite, serve as a powerful symbol of the toxic effects of slander and lies. In the ancient Near East, vipers were feared for their quick and often fatal strikes, making them an apt metaphor for the sudden and devastating impact of malicious speech. This imagery is consistent with other biblical references to the dangers of the tongue, such asProverbs 18:21, which states, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." The venomous nature of their speech suggests not only the intent to harm but also the potential to cause lasting damage, both physically and spiritually.
Selah
The term "Selah" is often found in the Psalms and is thought to be a musical or liturgical marker, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or emphasis. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it serves to draw attention to the preceding statement, encouraging the reader or listener to contemplate the gravity of the words. In this context, "Selah" invites reflection on the destructive power of deceitful speech and the moral implications of using one's words to harm others. It serves as a moment to consider the broader biblical teachings on the importance of truthfulness and the consequences of sin, as well as to seek divine wisdom in guarding one's own speech.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
DavidTraditionally attributed as the author of this psalm, David often wrote about his experiences with adversaries and his reliance on God for deliverance.
2.
Enemies of DavidThe psalm speaks to the malicious intent and deceitful speech of those who opposed David, often representing broader themes of evil and unrighteousness.
3.
Snakes and VipersSymbolic of deceit and danger, these creatures are used metaphorically to describe the harmful and poisonous nature of the enemies' words.
Teaching Points
The Power of WordsWords can be as harmful as physical weapons. We must be mindful of how we speak to and about others.
Guarding Our SpeechAs believers, we are called to speak truth and life, avoiding deceit and malice.
Recognizing Spiritual WarfareThe imagery of snakes and vipers reminds us of the spiritual battle we face, where words can be used by the enemy to sow discord and harm.
Seeking God's ProtectionLike David, we should seek God's protection and wisdom in dealing with those who use their words to harm.
Reflecting Christ in Our SpeechOur words should reflect the love and truth of Christ, serving as a testimony to our faith.
Lists and Questions
Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 140
How can the imagery of snakes and venom (verses 4-5) be reconciled with modern scientific understanding of reptile behavior?
Why are you a brood of vipers?
If the Bible is divinely inspired, why does Paul misquote the Old Testament (Romans 3:10-18 vs. Psalms)?
How do we reconcile the viper bite in Acts 28:3 with the claim that Malta has no venomous snakes?(3) Comp.
Psalm 64:3;
Psalm 58:4;
Psalm 52:2;
Psalm 10:7.
Adders.--The Hebrew word is peculiar to this place, and is explained by Gesenius to be a compound of two words, to represent "that which rolls itself up and lies in ambush." "Besides the cobra and the cerastes, several other species of venomous snakes are common in Syria, and we may apply the name, either generically or specifically, to the vipers. Two species,Vipera ammodytesandVipera euphratica, wefound to be very common. The former of these was known to Linnaeus as inhabiting Palestine. They are plainlycoloured serpents, with broad flat heads and suddenly-contracting tails" (Tristram,Nat. Hist. of the Bible,p. 275). The LXX. and Vulg. read "asp." (Comp.Romans 3:13.) . . .
Verse 3. -
They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent (comp.
Psalm 52:2;
Psalm 57:4;
Psalm 59:7;
Psalm 64:3).
Adders' poison is under their lips (comp.
Psalm 58:4;
Romans 3:15). The meaning is that their tongues inflict wounds which are as painful as poisoned wounds. The pause-sign, "selah," marks off the first stanza.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
They make their tonguesלְשׁוֹנָם֮(lə·šō·w·nām)Noun - common singular construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 3956:The tongueas sharpשָֽׁנֲנ֣וּ(šā·nă·nū)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 8150:To point, to pierce, to inculcateasכְּֽמוֹ־(kə·mōw-)Preposition
Strong's 3644:Like, as, whenserpents;נָ֫חָ֥שׁ(nā·ḥāš)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5175:A serpentthe venomחֲמַ֥ת(ḥă·maṯ)Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 2534:Heat, anger, poisonof vipersעַכְשׁ֑וּב(‘aḵ·šūḇ)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5919:Asp, viperis onתַּ֖חַת(ta·ḥaṯ)Preposition
Strong's 8478:The bottom, below, in lieu oftheir lips.שְׂפָתֵ֣ימוֹ(śə·p̄ā·ṯê·mōw)Noun - fdc | third person masculine plural
Strong's 8193:The lip, language, a marginSelahסֶֽלָה׃(se·lāh)Interjection
Strong's 5542:Suspension, pause
Links
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OT Poetry: Psalm 140:3 They have sharpened their tongues like (Psalm Ps Psa.) 
