36:2 36:2

Psalms 36:3

36:4 36:4

Bible Versions

The words of his mouth [are] iniquity and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, [and] to do good.
The words {H1697} of his mouth {H6310} are iniquity {H205} and deceit {H4820}: he hath left off {H2308} to be wise {H7919}{H8687)}, and to do good {H3190}{H8687)}.
His words are wrong and deceitful; he has stopped being wise and doing good.
The words of his mouth are wicked and deceitful; he has ceased to be wise and well-doing.
The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit: He hath ceased to be wise and to do good.

Psalm 36:3 offers a stark portrayal of the wicked person, focusing on the corruption of their speech and their deliberate abandonment of wisdom and good deeds. This verse is part of a larger psalm by David that contrasts the pervasive evil of humanity with the boundless, steadfast love and righteousness of God.

Context

This verse is found in the opening section of Psalm 36 (verses 1-4), which provides a dark description of the ungodly individual's character and actions. It sets the stage for the dramatic shift in focus from verse 5 onwards, where the psalmist extols the incomparable greatness and goodness of God, serving as a powerful counterpoint to the depravity described here. Understanding the depth of human sinfulness, as presented in these verses, highlights the profound wonder of God's grace and mercy.

Key Themes

  • Corrupt Speech: The phrase "The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit" emphasizes that the wicked person's communication is not merely flawed, but inherently harmful, dishonest, and morally perverse. Their speech reflects an inward corruption, designed to mislead or cause harm.
  • Willful Abandonment of Goodness: "He hath left off to be wise, and to do good" signifies a conscious and deliberate turning away from moral and spiritual rectitude. This isn't ignorance, but a rejection of the path of wisdom and righteous living, suggesting a hardened heart that no longer seeks what is right or beneficial.
  • Moral Decline: The verse illustrates a progression of spiritual decay where the initial inclination towards evil solidifies into a settled pattern of behavior, manifesting in both speech and action. It speaks to a fundamental shift in character where truth and goodness are no longer valued.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words used in this verse provide deeper understanding:

  • "Iniquity" is from the Hebrew 'aven (אָוֶן), which often denotes trouble, mischief, or wickedness that brings ruin. It suggests active malevolence rather than mere error.
  • "Deceit" comes from mirmah (מִרְמָה), implying cunning, fraud, or treachery. This highlights the manipulative and treacherous nature of the wicked person's words.
  • "Left off" is chadal (חָדַל), meaning to cease, forsake, or refrain. It strongly implies a deliberate cessation or abandonment of a former practice or potential for good, underscoring the willful nature of their moral decline.

Practical Application

Psalm 36:3 serves as a potent reminder for self-reflection and discernment:

  • Examine Our Words: We are called to consider the nature of our own speech. Do our words build up or tear down? Are they truthful and pure, or do they contain elements of "iniquity and deceit"? The Bible consistently warns about the power of the tongue.
  • Commit to Wisdom and Goodness: This verse underscores the danger of neglecting wisdom and good deeds. We must actively pursue and practice what is right, understanding that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. Abandoning these principles leads to moral decay.
  • Discernment: The verse also equips us to recognize these characteristics in others. Understanding the signs of a heart that has "left off to be wise, and to do good" allows for greater discernment in our relationships and interactions.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 55:21

    [The words] of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war [was] in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet [were] they drawn swords.

  • Psalms 10:7

    His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud: under his tongue [is] mischief and vanity.

  • Jeremiah 4:22

    For my people [is] foolish, they have not known me; they [are] sottish children, and they have none understanding: they [are] wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.

  • 1 Samuel 18:21

    And Saul said, I will give him her, that she may be a snare to him, and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him. Wherefore Saul said to David, Thou shalt this day be my son in law in [the one of] the twain.

  • Psalms 5:9

    For [there is] no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part [is] very wickedness; their throat [is] an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.

  • Psalms 140:3

    They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adders' poison [is] under their lips. Selah.

  • 1 Samuel 13:13

    And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever.
 Back

Search Scripture