What is the meaning of Psalm 12:2?

They lie to one another

• The psalmist pictures a society in which deception is routine, not accidental. This is willful, continual falsehood (Psalm 120:2; Proverbs 12:22).

• Lying to “one another” highlights the breakdown of trust within the covenant community; people who should be allies now exploit each other (Micah 7:5-6).

• God’s law plainly forbids false witness (Exodus 20:16). Persistent lying therefore signals rebellion against God as well as harm toward neighbors (Ephesians 4:25).

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They speak with flattering lips

• “Flattering” words sound pleasant yet hide self-interest, manipulating hearers rather than blessing them (Proverbs 29:5; 26:28).

• Such smooth talk often masks evil intent, as seen when enemies pretended friendship toward David (Psalm 55:21) and when false teachers use fine speech to exploit believers (Romans 16:18).

• Scripture commends honest encouragement (1 Thessalonians 5:11) but condemns flattery that appeases or seduces (Job 32:21-22).

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And a double heart

• The idiom pictures a person with “two minds,” saying one thing while concealing another (James 1:8).

• A divided heart cannot be loyal to God; Jesus taught that no one can serve two masters (Matthew 6:24).

• Integrity flows from an undivided heart, the very thing David later asks of God (Psalm 86:11). When hearts are double, society staggers under hypocrisy and distrust (Jeremiah 17:9).

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summary

Psalm 12:2 laments a culture poisoned by deceitful speech and divided loyalties. Lies fracture community, flattery manipulates, and double-heartedness erodes integrity. God calls His people to truthful words, sincere motives, and single-hearted devotion, offering stability and trust where falsehood once reigned.