Psalms 58:4

KJV

Their poison [is] like the poison of a serpent: [they are] like the deaf adder [that] stoppeth her ear;

KJV (with Strong's)

Their poison {H2534} is like {H1823} the poison {H2534} of a serpent {H5175}: they are like the deaf {H2795} adder {H6620} that stoppeth {H331}{H8686)} her ear {H241};

Complete Jewish Bible

Their venom is like snake's venom; they are like a serpent that stops its ears,

Berean Standard Bible

Their venom is like the venom of a snake, like a cobra that shuts its ears,

American Standard Version

Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: They are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 58:4 vividly portrays the inherent malice and stubborn recalcitrance of the wicked, particularly those who pervert justice, through two potent animal metaphors. Their words and actions are likened to the lethal venom of a serpent, inflicting destructive harm and spreading corruption, while their deliberate refusal to heed truth, correction, or the voice of justice is powerfully compared to a "deaf adder" that willfully blocks out all persuasion, emphasizing their entrenched and unyielding defiance against righteousness and divine appeals.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 58 is a fervent Davidic lament, specifically a *miktam*, directly addressing corrupt rulers or judges who have profoundly abandoned their divine mandate to administer justice fairly. The psalm opens with a direct, rhetorical challenge to these powerful individuals, questioning the integrity of their judgments and immediately exposing their inherent wickedness, which the psalmist asserts began even from birth, as seen in [Psalms 58:3](/psalms/58-3 "Psalms 58:3 - Wicked from Birth"). Therefore, verse 4 serves as a crucial and vivid characterization of this deep-seated depravity, elaborating on the insidious nature of their destructive influence and their unyielding opposition to both divine and human appeals for righteousness. This powerful imagery sets the stage for the subsequent imprecations and expressions of unwavering trust in God's ultimate and righteous justice, which are central to the latter half of the psalm, particularly in [Psalms 58:6-9](/psalms/58-6-9 "Psalms 58:6-9 - Prayers for Justice and Vengeance").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this psalm is undoubtedly the royal court or the judicial system of ancient Israel, where kings and appointed judges were divinely mandated to uphold God's law and ensure justice for all, especially the vulnerable and the oppressed. The perversion of justice was considered a grave offense, frequently condemned by prophets throughout Israel's history, as exemplified in [Isaiah 1:23](/isaiah/1-23 "Isaiah 1:23 - Corrupt Rulers and Their Consequences"). The striking imagery of the serpent and the "deaf adder" draws deeply from common ancient Near Eastern observations, folklore, and cultural understanding of these creatures. Serpents, particularly venomous ones, were universally feared symbols of treachery, danger, and death, often associated with spiritual evil and deception, tracing back to the narrative in [Genesis 3:13](/genesis/3-13 "Genesis 3:13 - The Serpent's Deceit and the Woman's Blame"). The "deaf adder" refers to a specific type of snake (likely a cobra or viper, such as the Egyptian cobra, known for its resistance to charmers) believed to be impervious to the charmer's music or incantations, not due to actual physiological deafness, but by pressing its ear to the ground or stopping it with its tail—a culturally understood metaphor for willful, obstinate, and deliberate refusal to listen to any form of persuasion, wisdom, or even the voice of divine truth.
* **Key Themes:** This verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 58 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **The Destructive Nature of Evil**, portraying the wicked's words and actions as a lethal "poison" that corrupts, harms, and destroys, reflecting a deep-seated malice rather than mere error or ignorance. This imagery highlights the active, virulent hostility emanating from those who pervert justice. Secondly, it vividly illustrates **Willful Resistance to Truth and Wisdom**, using the "deaf adder" to depict a deliberate, active choice to block out correction, divine instruction, or the cries for justice. This is not an inability to comprehend, but a stubborn, self-imposed refusal to submit to what is right and true, a theme echoed in [Jeremiah 5:21](/jeremiah/5-21 "Jeremiah 5:21 - Eyes and Ears that Do Not See or Hear"). Finally, in conjunction with [Psalms 58:3](/psalms/58-3 "Psalms 58:3 - Wicked from Birth"), the verse powerfully reinforces the theme of **Inherent Malice and Depravity**, suggesting that the wickedness described is not superficial or circumstantial but deeply ingrained in the character and very being of those who pervert justice, stemming from a heart alienated from God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Poison (Hebrew, _chêmâh'_):** This word (H2534) carries a rich semantic range, often translated as "venom," "wrath," "fury," or "burning anger." In the context of Psalms 58:4, it signifies not merely a physical toxin but a destructive, burning malice or rage that issues forth from the wicked. It describes their words, schemes, and actions as permeated with lethal intent and effect, suggesting an active, virulent hostility that corrupts and destroys.
* **Adder (Hebrew, _pethen'_):** The term _pethen_ (H6620) refers to a specific type of highly venomous snake, often identified as a cobra or asp, known for its contortions or striking posture. In this verse, it is used to specifically identify the type of serpent whose behavior is being likened to the wicked, emphasizing its dangerous and unyielding nature, particularly in its perceived resistance to snake charmers.
* **Stoppeth (Hebrew, _ʼâṭam'_):** This primitive root (H331) means "to close" (specifically referring to lips or ears) or, by analogy, "to contract" or "to shut." When applied to the "deaf adder," it vividly describes the deliberate, active choice of the snake (and by metaphor, the wicked) to block or close its ear, thereby refusing to hear or be influenced. This word highlights the willful and intentional nature of their resistance to persuasion, truth, or justice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Their poison [is] like the poison of a serpent":** This clause immediately establishes a powerful **simile**, comparing the destructive influence of the wicked to the lethal venom of a serpent. The "poison" here refers not just to literal venom but metaphorically to their malicious words, deceptive schemes, and unjust actions. Just as a serpent's bite injects a deadly substance into its victim, so the wicked's influence corrupts, harms, and brings spiritual, social, or judicial death. It highlights the insidious, pervasive, and profoundly dangerous nature of their depravity, which actively seeks to inflict harm.
* **"[they are] like the deaf adder [that] stoppeth her ear":** This second **simile** introduces another vivid animal metaphor, emphasizing the wicked's willful, deliberate, and stubborn resistance to truth, wisdom, and correction. The "deaf adder" (a type of cobra, _pethen_, described as _chêrêsh_ or "deaf") was culturally believed to "stop its ear" (using the verb _ʼâṭam_) to the charmer's music or incantations. This is not because the snake was physically deaf, but as a deliberate act of defiance or refusal to be swayed. This imagery underscores that the wicked's unwillingness to hear or respond to reason, divine instruction, or the cries for justice is not an incapacity but a stubborn, self-imposed act of rebellion, an active choice to remain impervious to righteousness and truth.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 58:4 is exceptionally rich in **Imagery** and employs two striking **Similes** to powerfully convey the inherent nature of the wicked. The first simile, "Their poison [is] like the poison of a serpent," utilizes the universally familiar and terrifying image of a venomous snake to represent the destructive, insidious, and lethal impact of the wicked's words and actions. This evokes a strong sense of danger, corruption, and an active threat to life and well-being. The second simile, "[they are] like the deaf adder [that] stoppeth her ear," creates an equally vivid picture of willful, stubborn resistance. The "deaf adder" is a culturally resonant image, not implying literal deafness, but a deliberate act of self-imposed imperviousness to persuasion, music, or charm. This **Personification** of the adder's "stopping her ear" powerfully highlights the active, conscious choice of the wicked to ignore truth, justice, and divine appeals. The combined effect of these animal metaphors is to underscore the inherent malice, unyielding defiance, and active rejection of righteousness that characterize those who pervert justice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly speaks to the pervasive nature of sin and its destructive consequences, particularly when manifested in positions of power or influence. The "poison" of the wicked reflects the corrupting power of sin that originates from a heart alienated from God, leading to words and deeds that bring harm, injustice, and spiritual decay. This imagery reminds us that sin is not merely a passive state but an active, virulent force. Furthermore, the imagery of the "deaf adder" highlights humanity's profound capacity for willful spiritual blindness and stubborn rebellion against divine truth and moral appeals. This deliberate refusal to hear or obey is a recurring and tragic theme in Scripture, illustrating the hardened heart that actively rejects God's wisdom and correction, ultimately leading to greater judgment and self-destruction.

* [Deuteronomy 32:33](/deuteronomy/32-33 "Deuteronomy 32:33 - The Wine of Serpents")
* [Matthew 23:33](/matthew/23-33 "Matthew 23:33 - Generation of Vipers")
* [Jeremiah 5:21](/jeremiah/5-21 "Jeremiah 5:21 - Eyes and Ears that Do Not See or Hear")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 58:4 serves as a sobering and penetrating mirror, not only for those in positions of power and influence but for every individual who seeks to live justly before God. It challenges us to deeply examine the nature of our own words and actions: do they carry the "poison" of malice, gossip, slander, injustice, or divisive rhetoric, or are they instead imbued with grace, truth, and a desire for reconciliation? Furthermore, the powerful image of the "deaf adder" compels us to honestly consider our receptivity to correction, divine wisdom, and the still, small voice of God. Are there areas in our lives where we stubbornly "stop our ears" to inconvenient truths, wise counsel from trusted sources, or the clear promptings of the Holy Spirit, simply because they challenge our comfort, our preconceived notions, or our cherished habits? True wisdom, spiritual growth, and genuine righteousness begin with a humble willingness to hear, to receive, and to obey, even when it demands repentance or a radical shift in perspective. This verse ultimately calls us to cultivate hearts that are profoundly open to truth and to speak words that build up, heal, and bring life, rather than tear down, corrupt, or destroy, all while trusting in God's ultimate and unwavering justice to prevail over all forms of wickedness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might my own words or actions, even subtly or unintentionally, carry a "poison" that harms others or undermines justice and truth in my relationships or community?**
* **Am I, like the "deaf adder," ever guilty of willfully ignoring truth, constructive correction, or the promptings of God's Word when it challenges my comfort, desires, or established patterns of behavior?**
* **How can I actively cultivate a heart that is more receptive to divine wisdom, humble correction, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, especially when it is difficult or uncomfortable to hear?**
* **Considering the prevalence of "poisonous" words and "deaf" ears in the world today, what is my specific responsibility to speak truth with love and advocate for righteousness and justice in my sphere of influence?**

### FAQ
**Why does the psalm describe the wicked as "deaf" if they are choosing not to hear?**

Answer: The description of the wicked as "deaf" in Psalms 58:4, specifically like the "deaf adder that stoppeth her ear," is not meant to imply a literal physical inability to hear. Instead, it is a powerful and profound metaphor for a deep spiritual and moral imperviousness. In ancient Near Eastern culture, certain snakes, like the cobra (_pethen_), were believed to be immune to the charmer's music or incantations, not because they were literally deaf, but because they would press an ear to the ground or stop it with their tail, thus *choosing* not to listen. This imagery emphasizes the wicked's deliberate, willful, and stubborn refusal to heed reason, justice, or divine appeals. It highlights an active resistance to truth and righteousness, a hardened heart that consciously blocks out any message that might challenge its evil ways, rather than a natural defect or a simple lack of understanding. This spiritual deafness is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, where people are described as having "eyes to see but do not see, and ears to hear but do not hear" [Jeremiah 5:21](/jeremiah/5-21 "Jeremiah 5:21 - Eyes and Ears that Do Not See or Hear") because they have chosen to close their hearts and minds to God's truth [Matthew 13:15](/matthew/13-15 "Matthew 13:15 - Hardened Hearts and Spiritual Blindness").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 58:4, with its vivid portrayal of the wicked's venomous malice and stubborn resistance to truth, finds its ultimate answer and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "poison" of the serpent, representing the destructive power of sin and its entry into the world through the deception of the ancient serpent [Genesis 3:13](/genesis/3-13 "Genesis 3:13 - The Serpent's Deceit"), led humanity into spiritual death and corruption. However, Christ is the promised one who came to crush the serpent's head [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium"), ultimately disarming the powers of darkness and conquering sin and death through His sacrificial death on the cross [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Powers and Authorities"). He became the divine antidote to the world's spiritual poison, offering healing, redemption, and new life to all who believe, just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness [John 3:14-15](/john/3-14-15 "John 3:14-15 - Lifted Up Like the Serpent"). Furthermore, the "deaf adder" imagery speaks powerfully to humanity's willful rejection of God's truth and wisdom. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus encountered those who, despite witnessing His profound miracles and hearing His life-giving words, stubbornly refused to believe, effectively "stopping their ears" to the voice of God Incarnate [John 12:37](/john/12-37 "John 12:37 - Unbelief Despite Miracles"). Yet, Christ Himself is the very embodiment of divine wisdom, the Word made flesh [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God"), who speaks with unparalleled authority and offers spiritual ears to hear and hearts to understand for all who are willing to humbly receive Him [Matthew 11:15](/matthew/11-15 "Matthew 11:15 - He Who Has Ears, Let Him Hear"). In Him, the venom of sin is neutralized, and the stubbornness of the human heart can be miraculously transformed into humble obedience, joyful reception of God's grace, and a deep desire to hear and follow His voice.

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.

Cross-References

Psalms 140:3

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

Ecclesiastes 10:11

Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no better.

James 3:8

But the tongue can no man tame; [it is] an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

Isaiah 11:8

And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice' den.

Matthew 3:7

¶ But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

Romans 3:13

Their throat [is] an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps [is] under their lips:

Jeremiah 8:17

For, behold, I will send serpents, cockatrices, among you, which [will] not [be] charmed, and they shall bite you, saith the LORD.