Psalm 140:2
ESV
who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually.
NIV
who devise evil plans in their hearts and stir up war every day.
NASB
Who devise evil things in their hearts; They continually stir up wars.
CSB
who plan evil in their hearts. They stir up wars all day long.
NLT
those who plot evil in their hearts and stir up trouble all day long.
KJV
Which imagine mischiefs in their heart; continually are they gathered together for war.
NKJV
Who plan evil things in their hearts; They continually gather together for war.
What does Psalm 140:2 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 140; verse-level content coming soon!Psalm 140:1–5 prays for rescue from vicious and immoral enemies. David speaks of plans, traps, and malicious words. These suggest a conspiracy (Psalm 140:8) to have David killed (1 Samuel 19:1–2) or overthrown as king (2 Samuel 15:13–14). Whoever these opponents are, David calls on the Lord for protection.
David prays for rescue from wicked and bloodthirsty enemies. He suggests violent conspiracies and traps, including false words. These enemies are plotting for his death, so he asks God for protection. This prayer comes with confidence that the Lord will grant David's request. David also asks the Lord to judge these evil opponents: to make them suffer defeat and death. This is also expressed with confidence that God will do what is right and care for the weak.
