Psalms 62:4

KJV

They only consult to cast [him] down from his excellency: they delight in lies: they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly. Selah.

KJV (with Strong's)

They only consult {H3289}{H8804)} to cast him down {H5080}{H8687)} from his excellency {H7613}: they delight {H7521}{H8799)} in lies {H3577}: they bless {H1288}{H8762)} with their mouth {H6310}, but they curse {H7043}{H8762)} inwardly {H7130}. Selah {H5542}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They only want to shake him from his height, they take delight in lying with their mouths they bless, but inwardly they curse. (Selah)

Berean Standard Bible

They fully intend to cast him down from his lofty perch; they delight in lies; with their mouths they bless, but inwardly they curse. Selah

American Standard Version

They only consult to thrust him down from his dignity; They delight in lies; They bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly. [Selah

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 62:4 offers a piercing exposé of the malicious and deceptive tactics employed by King David's adversaries. It reveals their singular, obsessive focus on undermining his divinely appointed position, their profound affinity for falsehood, and their deep-seated hypocrisy. These enemies outwardly offer feigned blessings while secretly harboring destructive curses, vividly illustrating the profound treachery and malevolent intent of those who sought to depose David from his "excellency." This verse serves as a potent warning against duplicity and highlights the spiritual warfare inherent in faithful leadership.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 62 is a profound declaration of David's unwavering trust in God, even when facing severe and deceptive opposition. The psalm opens with David's soul finding rest and salvation in God alone, emphasizing God as his unshakeable rock and fortress ([Psalms 62:1-2](/psalms/62-1-2 "Psalm 62:1-2 - David's Trust in God Alone")). Verse 4 specifically delves into the character and insidious tactics of his enemies, providing a stark contrast to David's steadfast faith and dependence on the Lord. It immediately follows a rhetorical question about the futility and malice of their attacks against him ([Psalms 62:3](/psalms/62-3 "Psalm 62:3 - The Futility of Malicious Attacks")), setting the stage for a detailed description of their deceptive methods and destructive intent. The subsequent verses then pivot back to David's resolute confidence, reiterating that his soul finds rest in God alone, who is his only true hope and refuge ([Psalms 62:5-8](/psalms/62-5-8 "Psalm 62:5-8 - Finding Rest and Refuge in God")), underscoring that human power and wealth are ultimately fleeting and unreliable compared to the enduring strength and love of God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the precise historical setting for Psalms 62 is not explicitly stated, many scholars attribute it to a period of intense personal or political turmoil for David, such as Absalom's rebellion ([2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins")) or Saul's relentless pursuit. During such times, David faced not only overt military threats but also insidious plots, betrayals from trusted advisors, and the widespread dissemination of false rumors designed to undermine his legitimacy and popularity. The concept of "excellency" (Hebrew: *sᵉʼêth*) would have resonated deeply in a monarchical society where a king's position was often considered divinely ordained, and his dignity and authority were paramount. The cultural backdrop also includes the significant value placed on spoken blessings and curses; a blessing invoked God's favor and prosperity, while a curse invoked divine judgment or misfortune. To "bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly" was a profound violation of both social and religious norms, revealing a deep moral corruption and a deliberate act of spiritual hypocrisy.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 62:4 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the psalm and the broader Psalter. Firstly, it highlights the **pervasive nature of human treachery and deceit**, contrasting the integrity of the righteous with the duplicity of the wicked. This theme is echoed throughout the wisdom literature, warning against the dangers of flattery and hidden malice ([Proverbs 26:23-28](/proverbs/26-23-28 "Proverbs 26:23-28 - Deceitful Lips and a Wicked Heart")). Secondly, it underscores the theme of **divine justice and discernment**. Despite the enemies' hidden motives and veiled actions, God sees and knows the heart, and will ultimately expose and judge their hypocrisy, as articulated elsewhere in the Psalms ([Psalms 7:9](/psalms/7-9 "Psalm 7:9 - God Judges the Righteous")). Finally, the verse implicitly reinforces the theme of **trust in God as the ultimate refuge and source of security**. By vividly portraying the unreliability and malevolence of human adversaries, David's subsequent declaration of sole dependence on God ([Psalms 62:5-8](/psalms/62-5-8 "Psalm 62:5-8 - David's Sole Trust in God")) becomes even more poignant and powerful, emphasizing that true security and stability are found only in the Lord, not in human alliances or the absence of opposition.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **consult (Hebrew, _yâʻats'_):** From H3289, this primitive root means "to advise; reflexively, to deliberate or resolve." In this context, it speaks to the enemies' concerted effort, their intentional plotting and scheming. Their "consultation" is not for good counsel but for malicious intent, highlighting a deliberate and unified purpose to harm David.
* **excellency (Hebrew, _sᵉʼêth'_):** From H7613, this word refers to "an elevation... figuratively, elation or cheerfulness; exaltation in rank or character." It signifies David's high position, dignity, or elevated status, most likely his kingship or his favored standing with God. It represents the very height from which his enemies sought to violently "cast him down," implying a desire to strip him of his authority, honor, and perhaps even his life.
* **lies (Hebrew, _kâzâb'_):** From H3577, this term denotes "falsehood; literally (untruth) or figuratively (idol); deceitful, false, leasing, liar, lie, lying." The phrase "they delight in lies" indicates not merely a casual use of untruths but a profound affinity for deceit as a primary tool and a source of perverse pleasure. Their methods are characterized by deliberate misrepresentation, slander, and manipulation, suggesting a moral depravity where truth is disregarded and falsehood embraced as a means to an end.
* **curse (Hebrew, _qâlal'_):** From H7043, this primitive root means "to be (causatively, make) light, literally (swift, small, sharp, etc.) or figuratively (easy, trifling, vile, etc.)." In the Hiphil stem, as used here, it means "to curse, treat lightly, despise." The stark contrast with "bless" (H1288, *bârak*) is crucial. While outwardly offering good wishes or praise, inwardly they harbor deep contempt, ill will, and a desire for David's downfall. This reveals a heart full of venom behind a facade of kindness, a quintessential example of spiritual duplicity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They only consult to cast [him] down from his excellency:"** This clause reveals the singular, malicious focus of David's enemies. Their entire deliberation, plotting, and scheming are aimed at one destructive goal: to depose him from his high and honorable position. The phrase "cast down" implies a violent, forceful removal, highlighting their destructive intent and the severity of the threat David faced, aiming to strip him of his God-given authority and dignity.
* **"they delight in lies:"** This segment exposes the chosen method and the perverted pleasure of their malice. Their joy is found in falsehood, indicating a deep moral corruption where truth is not merely ignored but actively scorned and embraced. They are not merely using lies as a pragmatic means to an end, but taking satisfaction in the act of deception itself, suggesting a character profoundly opposed to integrity and truth.
* **"they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly."** This is the most striking and damning depiction of their profound hypocrisy. Outwardly, they present a facade of goodwill, perhaps offering flattery, feigned praise, or false assurances of support. Yet, their true intentions, hidden deep within their hearts (qereb, H7130), are filled with malice, ill will, and a fervent desire for David's harm. This profound duplicity underscores their treachery and the deceptive nature of their opposition, revealing a heart that speaks one thing while desiring another.
* **"Selah."** This musical or liturgical notation (H5542), appearing frequently in the Psalms, likely indicates a pause for reflection, a moment to ponder the weight and significance of the preceding words. In this context, it calls the reader to consider the gravity of such hypocrisy and the profound spiritual battle described, inviting meditation on the nature of human deceit and divine discernment.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 62:4 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message with striking clarity and emotional depth. **Antithesis** is prominently featured, particularly in the stark contrast between "bless with their mouth" and "curse inwardly," which powerfully illustrates the enemies' profound hypocrisy and duplicity. This creates a vivid image of their two-faced nature, emphasizing the chasm between their external presentation and internal malice. The phrase "They *only* consult" employs **hyperbole**, suggesting that their entire focus and energy are consumed by this malicious goal, thereby accentuating the intensity of their obsession and the singular nature of their evil intent. The declaration "they delight in lies" uses **personification** by attributing a human emotion (delight) to an abstract concept (lies), further emphasizing the enemies' embrace of falsehood as an inherent and cherished part of their character. The overall tone is one of **lament and exposure**, as David articulates the insidious and deceptive tactics of his foes, setting the stage for his subsequent declarations of unwavering trust in God alone.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the biblical understanding of human depravity and the insidious nature of sin, particularly as it manifests in interpersonal relationships and power dynamics. The enemies' delight in lies and their hypocritical blessings expose a heart far from God, one that prioritizes self-gain and destruction over truth and righteousness. Theologically, this highlights God's attribute of omniscience; He sees not only outward actions but also the hidden motives and inward curses of the heart, affirming that true judgment belongs to Him alone. It also underscores the spiritual reality that opposition to God's anointed or His divine purposes often manifests through deception and veiled malice, rather than overt attack. This calls believers to cultivate spiritual discernment and to place their trust in the One who truly knows the heart and will ultimately bring all hidden things into the light, ensuring that justice prevails.

* [Proverbs 26:23](/proverbs/26-23 "Proverbs 26:23 - Burning Lips and a Wicked Heart")
* [Matthew 23:27-28](/matthew/23-27-28 "Matthew 23:27-28 - Jesus Condemns Hypocrisy")
* [Romans 3:13-14](/romans/3-13-14 "Romans 3:13-14 - The Depravity of Man's Speech")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 62:4 serves as a timeless mirror, reflecting the enduring realities of human nature and offering profound insights for contemporary believers. It compels us to cultivate a spirit of discerning wisdom, recognizing that outward appearances and smooth words may often conceal malicious intent or hidden agendas. In a world saturated with curated images, deceptive narratives, and the ease of online anonymity, this verse reminds us that true character is revealed not by what is said publicly, but by the hidden desires and intentions of the heart. For those who have experienced betrayal, faced duplicitous opposition, or been targets of malicious gossip, David's words offer validation and a poignant reminder that such experiences are not new to the human condition. More importantly, the psalm's broader context encourages us not to be consumed by the treachery of others, but to anchor our souls in God, who sees all, judges righteously, and is our only true refuge and source of unfailing strength. It challenges us to embody integrity ourselves, ensuring that our words and our hearts are aligned, reflecting the truthfulness and faithfulness of God rather than the deceit and hypocrisy of the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I cultivate greater discernment in my relationships, recognizing that not all who speak kindly harbor good intentions?**
* **In what areas of my life might my words and my true intentions be out of alignment, and how can I seek greater integrity and authenticity?**
* **When faced with betrayal, malicious gossip, or unfair opposition, how can I emulate David's trust in God rather than succumbing to anger, bitterness, or retaliation?**
* **What does this verse teach me about the importance of guarding my own heart against envy, deceit, hidden malice, and the temptation to engage in hypocrisy?**

### FAQ
**What does "excellency" refer to in this verse?**

Answer: In Psalms 62:4, "excellency" (Hebrew: *sᵉʼêth*, H7613) refers to David's high position, dignity, or elevated status. This most likely signifies his kingship, which was divinely appointed, or his favored standing with God. His enemies sought to cast him down from this esteemed and honorable place, implying a desire to strip him of his authority, honor, and perhaps even his life. It speaks to the envy and destructive intent aimed at his God-given anointing and leadership, seeking to bring him low from his elevated state.

**How does "they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly" illustrate hypocrisy?**

Answer: This phrase is a powerful illustration of profound hypocrisy because it describes individuals who outwardly express good wishes, praise, or support ("bless with their mouth") while simultaneously harboring deep malice, ill will, and a desire for harm ("curse inwardly"). Their external actions are a deceptive facade, concealing their true, malevolent intentions. This duplicity is a recurring theme in Scripture, condemned as a severe moral and spiritual failing, as seen in Jesus' condemnation of the Pharisees' outward piety contrasting sharply with their inward corruption and hypocrisy ([Matthew 23:27-28](/matthew/23-27-28 "Matthew 23:27-28 - Jesus Condemns Hypocrisy")). It highlights the danger of a divided heart, where words do not align with true intentions.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 62:4, while deeply rooted in David's personal struggle with deceptive enemies, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Just as David's adversaries sought to cast him down from his "excellency" through lies and hypocrisy, so too did the religious leaders and political powers conspire against Jesus, the true King of Israel and the Son of God. They "delighted in lies," fabricating false accusations against Him during His trial ([Matthew 26:59-60](/matthew/26-59-60 "Matthew 26:59-60 - False Witnesses Against Jesus")), and demonstrated profound hypocrisy, outwardly feigning piety and concern for the law while inwardly plotting His death ([John 11:47-50](/john/11-47-50 "John 11:47-50 - The Sanhedrin Plots Jesus' Death")). They "blessed with their mouth" in mockery, hailing Him as "King of the Jews" ([Matthew 27:29](/matthew/27-29 "Matthew 27:29 - Mocking Jesus as King")) even as they inwardly cursed Him and demanded His crucifixion. Yet, precisely through this ultimate act of betrayal and apparent "casting down," God's greater plan of salvation was accomplished. Jesus' "excellency" was not diminished but rather glorified through His suffering, death, and resurrection. He became the ultimate Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and was then exalted to the highest place, above every name, by God the Father ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation")). Thus, the treachery described in Psalms 62:4 foreshadows the divine paradox where human malice, aimed at destruction, ultimately serves God's redemptive purpose, leading to the greater exaltation of His Christ and the salvation of humanity.

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 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 28:3

Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief [is] in their hearts.

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.

Romans 7:22

For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:

Romans 1:32

Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Revelation 22:15

For without [are] dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

John 11:47

Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.