What is the meaning of Psalm 58:5? Refusing to hear Psalm 58:5 opens with the picture of a serpent “refusing to hear.” David is comparing the corrupt judges of verse 1 to a cobra that deliberately stops up its ears. Scripture often links willful deafness with hardened rebellion (Jeremiah 6:10; Zechariah 7:11). Like those scoffers, these leaders ignore every warning, correction, or plea. They are not merely ignorant; they choose silence toward God, echoing Stephen’s charge in Acts 7:51: “You always resist the Holy Spirit.” The tune of the charmer Next, David speaks of “the tune of the charmer.” In the ancient Near East, charmers played specific notes to control serpents. The melody here pictures truth meant to restrain evil. God’s law is that tune (Psalm 19:7-9), and faithful prophets, priests, and parents are its musicians (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). Yet these rulers are unmoved. Their ears itch only for sounds that soothe their corruption, much like those in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 who “accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own desires.” Who skillfully weaves his spell Finally, David notes that the charmer is “skillful.” The best arguments, the most persuasive preaching, even the most loving appeals fail when a heart is dead set against righteousness. Pharaoh saw Moses’ signs (Exodus 7-12); Jezebel watched Elijah’s fire from heaven (1 Kings 18); still they would not bend. Paul warns of “deceitful workers” who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:13-15), yet the obstinate find even truer voices easy to dismiss. The point is sobering: human cleverness cannot penetrate a soul that loves darkness (John 3:19-20). summary Psalm 58:5 paints a vivid portrait of hardened sinners—people who plug their ears against God’s law, resist every gracious appeal, and remain unmoved no matter how skillful the messenger. The verse underscores our dependence on the Lord to open ears and soften hearts; apart from His intervention, even the sweetest melody of truth will fall on willing deafness. |
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