Old Testament
Psalms 140:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth; evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.
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Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth: evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.
What Psalms 140:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse expresses a plea for justice against those who speak evil or spread falsehoods. The speaker desires that such individuals do not find a permanent place in society. The second part warns that those who commit violence will ultimately face consequences, as evil will pursue them. It highlights the idea that wrongdoing will not go unpunished and that the wicked will eventually be brought down by their own actions. The verse serves as a reminder of the moral order in the world, where evil cannot thrive indefinitely and will ultimately lead to self-destruction. It encourages the faithful to trust that justice will prevail and that those who harm others will face retribution. This reflects a broader theme in the Psalms of seeking divine protection and justice against adversaries who engage in harmful speech and actions.
How to apply Psalms 140:11 to your life
In our daily lives, we should be cautious about the words we speak and the intentions behind them. This verse encourages us to avoid spreading negativity or engaging in harmful speech. It also reassures us that those who act violently or unjustly will face consequences, urging us to trust in divine justice and maintain our integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 140:11 mean?
Psalms 140:11 expresses a desire for justice against those who speak evil and warns that violent individuals will face consequences for their actions. It emphasizes that wrongdoing will not go unpunished and that evil will ultimately lead to self-destruction.
What is the meaning of 'evil speaker' in Psalms 140:11?
In Psalms 140:11, 'evil speaker' refers to someone who spreads falsehoods or harmful words. The verse calls for such individuals not to find a lasting place in society, highlighting the negative impact of their speech.
How does Psalms 140:11 relate to justice?
Psalms 140:11 relates to justice by expressing a plea for the downfall of evil speakers and a warning that violent individuals will be pursued by evil. It reinforces the belief that justice will be served and that wrongdoers will not escape accountability.
What themes are present in Psalms 140:11?
The themes present in Psalms 140:11 include justice, evil, retribution, violence, and divine protection. The verse highlights the moral order where evil cannot thrive and assures that those who harm others will face consequences.
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