Psalms 64:4

Commentary on Psalms 64:4 (KJV)

Psalms 64:4 vividly describes the insidious tactics employed by the wicked against the righteous, highlighting their stealth and suddenness. This verse is part of a prayer of David, where he cries out to God for protection from his enemies.

Context

Psalm 64 is a lament psalm, a heartfelt prayer by David, seeking deliverance from malicious and deceitful adversaries. The preceding verses (Psalms 64:1-3) set the scene, depicting the enemies sharpening their tongues like swords and bending their bows to shoot bitter words. Verse 4 continues this powerful imagery, focusing on the method of their attack: hidden, swift, and without conscience. David's plea reflects the real dangers faced by those who seek to live righteously in a hostile world.

Key Themes

• Deceit and Secrecy: The phrase "shoot in secret" emphasizes the hidden nature of the enemies' attacks. This isn't open warfare but rather a clandestine operation, involving slander, gossip, or schemes concocted in the dark. It speaks to the treachery of those who operate behind veils of secrecy, much like the wicked who lurk in secret places to ambush the innocent.
• Suddenness and Surprise: "Suddenly do they shoot at him" underscores the unexpected nature of these assaults. The intent is to catch the victim off guard, leaving them no time to prepare or defend themselves. This tactic aims to maximize shock and damage.
• Lack of Fear: "And fear not" reveals a critical characteristic of these adversaries: their boldness in wickedness, stemming from a disregard for God and the consequences of their actions. They operate without moral restraint or the fear of God before their eyes, believing they can act with impunity.
• The Target: "The Perfect": The "perfect" (Hebrew: tam) refers to the blameless, upright, or righteous individual. It signifies one who walks in integrity and devotion to God, not necessarily one who is sinless, but one whose heart is wholly committed to the Lord. David often refers to himself this way in the context of his enemies, as one who seeks to live according to God's ways. The enemies target those who strive for spiritual integrity, highlighting the spiritual nature of the conflict.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "perfect" here is tam (תָּם), which conveys the idea of being complete, sound, upright, or blameless in one's conduct and character before God. It is a term that emphasizes integrity and moral soundness, as seen in descriptions of righteous individuals like Noah (Genesis 6:9) or Job (Job 1:1). The imagery of "shooting" (yarah) from a bow is metaphorically applied to the damaging words and schemes of the wicked, underscoring the destructive power of their hidden malice.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless insights for believers facing opposition. It reminds us that spiritual warfare often involves subtle and unexpected attacks from those who operate without conscience. For Christians, "the perfect" can represent those who strive to follow Christ, and we can expect similar opposition. David's response—to cry out to God—serves as a model. When faced with hidden slander, sudden betrayal, or malicious schemes, believers are called to:

• Maintain Vigilance: Be aware that not all attacks are overt; some are stealthy.
• Trust in God's Protection: Just as David sought refuge in God, we too can find our defense in the Lord, who sees all hidden things.
• Persevere in Righteousness: Despite the attacks, continue to live with integrity, knowing that God vindicates the upright.

The psalmist's prayer ultimately anticipates a time when God will expose and defeat the wicked, ensuring justice for those who walk in His ways (Psalms 64:7-8).