For the choirmaster.
This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was directed to the leader of music in the temple. The role of the choirmaster was crucial in ancient Israelite worship, as music was a central part of their religious expression. The choirmaster would have been responsible for ensuring that the psalm was performed correctly and reverently.

To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.”
This suggests that the psalm was to be sung to a specific melody known to the original audience. The phrase "Do Not Destroy" is also used in the titles of Psalms 57, 59, and 75, indicating a common tune or theme. This could imply a plea for protection or deliverance, fitting the context of David's life when he often faced persecution and sought God's intervention.

A Miktam of David.
The term "Miktam" is not fully understood, but it is often associated with golden or precious, possibly indicating a psalm of deep significance or value. David, the attributed author, was the second king of Israel and a central figure in the Old Testament. His life experiences, including his time as a shepherd, warrior, and king, deeply influenced his writings. This psalm, like others attributed to him, reflects his personal struggles and reliance on God.

Do you indeed speak justly, O rulers?
This rhetorical question challenges the integrity and fairness of those in positions of authority. In the historical context, rulers were expected to uphold justice and righteousness, as seen in Deuteronomy 16:18-20, where judges are commanded to judge fairly. The question implies a failure to do so, highlighting a common biblical theme of corrupt leadership, as seen in the prophets' rebukes of Israel's leaders (e.g., Isaiah 1:23, Jeremiah 5:28).

Do you judge uprightly, O sons of men?
This phrase continues the challenge to human leaders, emphasizing the expectation of moral and ethical judgment. The term "sons of men" underscores the human nature of these leaders, contrasting their fallibility with God's perfect justice. This theme is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 82:2-4, where God calls out unjust judges. The call for upright judgment reflects God's character and His desire for His people to reflect His justice in their governance.

No, in your hearts you devise injustice;
This phrase addresses the internal motivations and intentions of the wicked. The heart, in biblical terms, often represents the center of human will and emotion (Jeremiah 17:9). The accusation of devising injustice suggests a deliberate and premeditated plan to act unrighteously, contrasting with God's call for justice and righteousness (Micah 6:8). This reflects the broader biblical theme of the heart's condition being crucial to one's relationship with God (1 Samuel 16:7). The psalmist's rebuke here aligns with the prophetic tradition of condemning leaders and judges who pervert justice (Isaiah 10:1-2).

with your hands you mete out violence on the earth.
The hands symbolize action and the execution of one's plans. The phrase "mete out violence" indicates the tangible manifestation of the injustice conceived in the heart. This reflects the biblical principle that evil thoughts lead to evil actions (James 1:14-15). The mention of "on the earth" emphasizes the widespread impact of such violence, affecting the community and creation itself. This echoes the biblical narrative of the earth suffering due to human sin (Genesis 6:11-12). The psalmist's lament here can be seen as a call for divine justice, anticipating the ultimate judgment and restoration promised in scripture (Revelation 21:1-4).

The wicked are estranged from the womb;
This phrase suggests the inherent nature of sinfulness in humanity, echoing the doctrine of original sin. The concept of being "estranged" implies a separation from righteousness and God from the very beginning of life. This aligns with passages like Psalm 51:5, where David acknowledges being sinful from birth. The imagery of the "womb" emphasizes the depth and early onset of this estrangement, indicating that wickedness is not merely a result of environment or upbringing but is innate. This idea is consistent with the biblical narrative of the fall in Genesis 3, where sin entered the world through Adam and Eve, affecting all their descendants.

the liars go astray from birth.
The term "liars" here can be understood as those who are deceitful, a characteristic often associated with the wicked throughout Scripture. Going "astray" suggests a deviation from the path of truth and righteousness, reinforcing the idea of an inherent sinful nature. This phrase can be connected to Romans 3:23, which states that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. The concept of going astray from birth highlights the universality of sin and the need for divine intervention for redemption. In a broader biblical context, this underscores the necessity of Jesus Christ's redemptive work, as He is the truth (John 14:6) and the one who brings reconciliation between God and humanity.

Their venom is like the venom of a snake
This phrase uses the imagery of venom to describe the harmful and destructive nature of the wicked. In biblical times, snakes were often associated with danger and deceit, as seen in Genesis 3 with the serpent in the Garden of Eden. The venom symbolizes the deadly and corrupting influence of evil actions and words. This metaphor is consistent with other biblical references to the tongue's power, such as in James 3:8, which describes the tongue as "full of deadly poison."

like a cobra that shuts its ears
Cobras, known for their deadly bite, are used here to emphasize the stubbornness and unresponsiveness of the wicked. The image of a cobra shutting its ears suggests an intentional refusal to listen to wisdom or correction. This can be connected to Proverbs 1:24-25, where wisdom calls out, but the foolish refuse to listen. The shutting of ears also reflects a hardened heart, a theme seen throughout Scripture, such as in Pharaoh's hardened heart in Exodus. This imagery underscores the idea that the wicked are not only dangerous but also willfully ignorant and resistant to change.

refusing to hear the tune of the charmer
This phrase suggests a deliberate choice to ignore or reject guidance or persuasion. In biblical times, charmers or enchanters were often associated with those who practiced divination or sorcery, which was condemned in the Law of Moses (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). The imagery here may reflect the stubbornness of the wicked, who refuse to heed wisdom or correction, much like a snake that ignores the charmer's tune. This can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual deafness of those who are set in their ways, unwilling to listen to God's voice or the call to righteousness. The charmer's tune could symbolize the voice of God or His prophets, which the wicked choose to ignore.

who skillfully weaves his spell
The skill of the charmer indicates a level of expertise and knowledge, suggesting that the message or influence being ignored is not due to a lack of clarity or power. In the ancient Near East, charmers were often seen as possessing secret knowledge or abilities to control or influence through their craft. This phrase highlights the futility of human efforts to change the hearts of those who are determined to resist. It also underscores the idea that no matter how persuasive or skillful the message, it is ultimately the condition of the heart that determines receptivity. This can be connected to the broader biblical theme of the hardness of heart, as seen in Pharaoh's resistance to Moses in Exodus, and the parables of Jesus, where the seed of the word falls on different types of soil (Matthew 13:3-9).

O God, shatter their teeth in their mouths;
This phrase is a vivid metaphorical plea for divine intervention against the wicked. The imagery of shattering teeth suggests a complete disarmament of the enemy's power and ability to cause harm. In ancient Near Eastern culture, teeth were often symbolic of strength and aggression, particularly in predatory animals. The psalmist's request for God to shatter the teeth indicates a desire for God to render the wicked powerless. This aligns with other biblical passages where God is called upon to protect the righteous and judge the wicked, such as in Psalm 3:7, where David asks God to strike his enemies on the jaw. Theologically, this reflects the belief in God's sovereignty and justice, emphasizing that ultimate judgment and retribution belong to Him.

O LORD, tear out the fangs of the lions.
The reference to "lions" symbolizes powerful and dangerous adversaries. In biblical times, lions were common in the region and represented formidable threats. The psalmist's plea for God to tear out the fangs of the lions is a request for God to neutralize the threat posed by these enemies. This imagery is consistent with other scriptural references where lions symbolize danger or evil forces, such as in 1 Peter 5:8, where the devil is described as a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. The act of tearing out the fangs signifies a complete removal of the enemy's ability to inflict harm. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate deliverer and protector of His people, defeating the powers of evil and rendering them ineffective against His followers.

May they vanish like water that runs off;
This phrase uses the imagery of water to convey the idea of swift disappearance and ineffectiveness. In the arid climate of ancient Israel, water was a precious resource, and its rapid disappearance would be a familiar sight. The psalmist is invoking a curse upon the wicked, desiring that their influence and power dissipate quickly and without effect. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages where water symbolizes transience and futility (e.g., Job 14:11). Theologically, it reflects the belief in divine justice, where the wicked will ultimately face consequences for their actions.

when they draw the bow,
The act of drawing a bow is a metaphor for preparing to attack or cause harm. In ancient warfare, the bow was a common weapon, and its use here symbolizes the readiness and intent of the wicked to inflict damage. This imagery is found throughout the Psalms and other biblical texts, often representing the threats and dangers faced by the righteous (e.g., Psalm 11:2). The psalmist's plea is for divine intervention to thwart these hostile intentions.

may their arrows be blunted.
Blunted arrows are ineffective and unable to penetrate or cause harm. This request for the arrows of the wicked to be blunted is a call for their plans and attacks to fail. In a broader biblical context, this reflects the theme of God protecting the righteous and ensuring that the schemes of the wicked do not succeed (e.g., Psalm 37:15). Theologically, it underscores the belief in God's sovereignty and His ability to render the efforts of the wicked futile. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, who, in His ultimate victory, renders the power of sin and death ineffective for those who trust in Him.

Like a slug that dissolves in its slime
This phrase uses vivid imagery to convey the idea of futility and inevitable destruction. In the ancient Near East, slugs and snails were common and their trails of slime were a familiar sight. The imagery suggests a process of self-destruction, as the slug's own environment leads to its demise. This can be seen as a metaphor for the wicked, whose own actions lead to their downfall. The Bible often uses natural imagery to illustrate spiritual truths, as seen in Job 13:28, where human life is compared to a moth-eaten garment. The self-destructive nature of sin is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing that the wicked will ultimately face the consequences of their actions.

like a woman’s stillborn child
This phrase introduces a somber and tragic image, reflecting the ultimate end of the wicked. In biblical times, the loss of a child was a profound tragedy, and stillbirths were not uncommon due to the lack of medical knowledge and care. This imagery underscores the abrupt and sorrowful end that awaits those who oppose God's righteousness. The comparison to a stillborn child highlights the futility and unfulfilled potential of the wicked, as they are cut off before they can experience life. This can be connected to Job 3:16, where Job laments his own birth, wishing he had been a stillborn child to avoid suffering. The imagery serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of living in opposition to God's will.

may they never see the sun
The phrase "may they never see the sun" is a wish for the wicked to be cut off from life and its blessings. In biblical literature, seeing the sun is often associated with life, vitality, and the favor of God. Ecclesiastes 11:7 states, "Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun," indicating the joy and goodness of life. The desire for the wicked to never see the sun is a call for their removal from the land of the living, a theme echoed in other imprecatory psalms where the psalmist seeks divine justice against evildoers. This reflects the belief in divine retribution, where the righteous seek God's intervention to uphold justice and righteousness. The imagery also points to the ultimate separation from God's presence, as seen in Matthew 25:30, where the unfaithful servant is cast into outer darkness.

Before your pots can feel the burning thorns—
This phrase uses a metaphor common in ancient Near Eastern culture, where cooking pots were heated over quick-burning thorn bushes. The imagery suggests suddenness and swiftness, indicating that God's judgment will come unexpectedly and rapidly. In biblical times, thorns were often used as kindling because they ignited quickly but also burned out fast, symbolizing the fleeting nature of human plans and efforts without divine blessing. This metaphor is also seen in other scriptures, such as Ecclesiastes 7:6, where the laughter of fools is compared to the crackling of thorns under a pot, emphasizing the temporary and ultimately futile nature of wickedness.

whether green or dry—
The mention of "green or dry" thorns highlights the indiscriminate nature of God's judgment. In the ancient world, green thorns would not burn as easily as dry ones, yet the verse suggests that both will be swept away, indicating that no state of readiness or unpreparedness can withstand divine intervention. This can be seen as a reflection of God's omnipotence and the certainty of His justice, regardless of human circumstances. The imagery underscores the idea that God's actions are not hindered by human conditions or limitations.

He will sweep them away.
The phrase "He will sweep them away" conveys the idea of complete and total removal, akin to a powerful wind or flood that leaves nothing behind. This reflects the biblical theme of divine retribution against the wicked, as seen in other scriptures like Psalm 1:4, where the wicked are compared to chaff driven away by the wind. The sweeping action can also be seen as a type of Christ's ultimate victory over sin and evil, as prophesied in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament. This imagery assures believers of God's sovereign control and the eventual triumph of righteousness.

The righteous will rejoice when they see they are avenged;
This phrase reflects the biblical theme of divine justice, where the righteous witness God's judgment upon the wicked. Throughout Scripture, there is an assurance that God will ultimately vindicate His people (Deuteronomy 32:43, Revelation 19:1-2). The rejoicing of the righteous is not in personal vengeance but in the fulfillment of God's justice. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern context where justice was a communal concern, and divine intervention was seen as a cause for celebration. Theologically, it underscores the hope and trust in God's righteous judgment, a theme echoed in the imprecatory psalms and prophetic literature.

they will wash their feet in the blood of the wicked.
This vivid imagery symbolizes the complete and overwhelming victory of God's justice over evil. In ancient warfare, victors often walked through the battlefield, a sign of triumph over their enemies. The phrase is not a literal call to violence but a metaphor for the total defeat of wickedness. It connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's ultimate triumph over evil, as seen in passages like Isaiah 63:1-6 and Revelation 14:19-20. This imagery also foreshadows the final judgment, where evil is decisively defeated. In typology, it points to Christ's victory over sin and death, where His righteousness prevails, and His enemies are subdued.

Then men will say,
This phrase anticipates a future acknowledgment by people. It suggests a moment of realization or revelation, often seen in biblical narratives where God's actions lead to a change in human understanding. This aligns with the prophetic nature of many Psalms, where future events are foretold. The use of "men" indicates a universal recognition, not limited to Israel but extending to all humanity, reflecting the universal scope of God's justice.

“There is surely a reward for the righteous!
The concept of a reward for the righteous is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing God's justice and faithfulness. In the Old Testament, righteousness is often associated with adherence to God's law and covenant. This phrase reassures believers that their faithfulness will not go unnoticed. It echoes Proverbs 11:18, which speaks of the righteous being rewarded. Theologically, it points to the ultimate reward of eternal life, a theme expanded in the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the writings of Paul.

There is surely a God who judges the earth!”
This statement affirms the existence and sovereignty of God as the ultimate judge. In the ancient Near Eastern context, gods were often seen as local or tribal, but this declaration asserts the universal jurisdiction of the God of Israel. It connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's judgment, seen in passages like Genesis 18:25, where Abraham acknowledges God as the judge of all the earth. This phrase also foreshadows the eschatological judgment described in Revelation, where God will judge the living and the dead. It underscores the biblical assurance that justice will ultimately prevail, a central hope for believers throughout Scripture.