Psalm 64 explained: When Words Become Weapons

A plea to be hidden (vv. 1-2)

The singer, traditionally linked to King David, asks God to hear a troubled prayer and to keep them safe from people plotting in secret. The plotting also spills out into open uproar against them.

Words like swords and arrows (vv. 3-4)

The attack is mainly verbal: slander and bitter words, pictured as sharpened swords and arrows shot from hiding at someone innocent of the charges. They strike without fear, which interpreters read either as feeling sure they will succeed or as having no regard for God.

Plotters who feel safe (vv. 5-6)

They urge each other on and plan hidden traps, asking who could possibly see them. The Hebrew of verse 6 is hard to translate, but it ends by noting how deep and cunning the human heart can be.

God turns the tables (vv. 7-8)

God answers with arrows of his own, striking them suddenly just as they struck others suddenly. Their own words end up bringing them down, and onlookers shake their heads at their ruin.

Everyone takes notice (vv. 9-10)

People who see this think seriously about what God has done and speak of it. Those who live rightly find joy and safety in the LORD.

Key verse: Psalm 64:7

Something to think about

When someone is harmed by words they cannot answer, what do you think they need most: protection, the truth coming out, or something else?