Old Testament
Psalms 140:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The proud have hidden a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set traps for me. Selah.
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The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set gins for me. Selah.
What Psalms 140:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker expresses a feeling of being targeted by those who are proud and arrogant. They have set traps and snares along the paths the speaker takes, indicating a deliberate attempt to cause harm or to lead the speaker into danger. The imagery of nets and traps suggests that these proud individuals are cunning and strategic in their efforts to ensnare the speaker. The use of 'Selah' at the end invites the reader to pause and reflect on the seriousness of the situation. This verse highlights the reality of facing opposition and the need for vigilance against those who may seek to undermine or harm us through deceitful means. It serves as a reminder that pride can lead to destructive actions against others, and it encourages the reader to remain aware of their surroundings and the intentions of those around them.
How to apply Psalms 140:5 to your life
When facing challenges from those who may wish to harm us, it is important to stay alert and aware of our surroundings. We should seek wisdom and guidance to navigate through difficult situations and avoid falling into traps set by others. Trusting in God for protection can provide strength.
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 140:5 mean in simple terms?
Psalms 140:5 expresses the speaker's feeling of being targeted by proud and arrogant individuals who have set traps and snares along their path. This imagery indicates a deliberate attempt to cause harm or lead the speaker into danger. The verse serves as a reminder of the cunning nature of those who may wish to deceive us and highlights the importance of being vigilant in the face of opposition.
How can I apply Psalms 140:5 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 140:5 by staying alert to the intentions of those around you, especially in challenging situations. It encourages you to seek wisdom and guidance from God to navigate through potential traps set by others. Trusting in God's protection can provide you with the strength to face opposition and avoid falling into deceitful schemes.
What does 'Selah' mean in Psalms 140:5?
The term 'Selah' in Psalms 140:5 is often interpreted as a pause or a moment for reflection. It invites the reader to take a moment to consider the seriousness of the situation described in the verse, emphasizing the need for vigilance against those who may seek to harm us.
Who are the 'proud' mentioned in Psalms 140:5?
In Psalms 140:5, the 'proud' refers to individuals who exhibit arrogance and a sense of superiority. These individuals may act deceitfully and set traps for others, reflecting a lack of humility and a willingness to harm those they perceive as weaker.
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