Psalms 140:5

The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set gins for me. Selah.

The proud {H1343} have hid {H2934} a snare {H6341} for me, and cords {H2256}; they have spread {H6566} a net {H7568} by the wayside {H3027}{H4570}; they have set {H7896} gins {H4170} for me. Selah {H5542}.

The arrogant hide snares for me; they spread nets by the side of the road, hoping to trap me there. (Selah)

The proud hide a snare for me; the cords of their net are spread along the path, and lures are set out for me. Selah

The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; They have spread a net by the wayside; They have set gins for me. [Selah

Psalm 140:5 (KJV) graphically describes the insidious nature of the psalmist's enemies, portraying them as cunning hunters laying hidden traps. This verse is part of a desperate prayer by David for deliverance from violent and deceitful adversaries.

Context

This psalm, titled "A Psalm of David," is a fervent plea for rescue from malicious and violent individuals. David, throughout his life, faced numerous enemies who sought his downfall, from King Saul to rebellious Absalom. Psalm 140 is a cry for divine intervention against those who plot harm, using imagery common to hunting and warfare to convey their treacherous methods. The preceding verses of Psalm 140 establish the psalmist's distress, praying to be delivered from the "evil man" and "violent man."

Key Themes

  • Hidden Dangers and Treachery: The repetition of "snare," "cords," "net," and "gins" emphasizes the hidden, deceptive, and inescapable nature of the enemies' plots. They are not confronting openly but are operating with stealth and malice.
  • The Nature of the "Proud": These adversaries are characterized by their "pride," suggesting arrogance, self-sufficiency, and a disregard for God or others. Their pride fuels their desire to ensnare and harm the righteous.
  • Vulnerability of the Righteous: The psalmist, representing the righteous, finds himself vulnerable to these hidden attacks, highlighting the constant need for divine protection.
  • Reliance on God for Deliverance: Implicit in this complaint is David's absolute trust that only God can expose and dismantle these hidden traps. This theme of divine protection is echoed in other psalms, such as Psalm 91:3, which speaks of deliverance from the "fowler's snare."

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew words used for "snare" (pach), "cords" (chevel), "net" (resheth), and "gins" (moqesh) are all distinct terms for various types of traps used to catch animals or people. Their cumulative use paints a vivid picture of a multifaceted, inescapable threat.
  • The term "Selah" at the end of the verse is a musical or liturgical instruction, often indicating a pause for reflection or a change in musical accompaniment. It serves to underscore the gravity of the preceding statement, inviting the reader to meditate on the profound danger described.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalm 140:5 resonates with the reality of spiritual warfare and the schemes of the enemy. Just as David faced visible and invisible adversaries, Christians are called to be vigilant against the "wiles of the devil" (Ephesians 6:11). This verse reminds us that:

  • Enemies may operate subtly: Not all threats are overt; some are hidden, designed to trip us up when we least expect it. This could manifest as temptations, deceptive ideologies, or malicious gossip.
  • Vigilance is necessary: We must remain watchful, discerning the times and the intentions of those who oppose righteousness.
  • God is our ultimate Protector: Our hope is not in our own ability to detect every trap, but in God's power to deliver us from unseen dangers. We are encouraged to pray for discernment and protection, knowing that the Lord is faithful to guard His own (2 Thessalonians 3:3).
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 35:7

    For without cause have they hid for me their net [in] a pit, [which] without cause they have digged for my soul.

  • Psalms 142:3

    When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me.

  • Jeremiah 18:22

    Let a cry be heard from their houses, when thou shalt bring a troop suddenly upon them: for they have digged a pit to take me, and hid snares for my feet.

  • Luke 20:20

    ¶ And they watched [him], and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.

  • Luke 20:23

    But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me?

  • Jeremiah 18:20

    Shall evil be recompensed for good? for they have digged a pit for my soul. Remember that I stood before thee to speak good for them, [and] to turn away thy wrath from them.

  • Psalms 57:6

    They have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down: they have digged a pit before me, into the midst whereof they are fallen [themselves]. Selah.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back