What does Psalm 59:7 mean?

In response to an attempted ambush (1 Samuel 19:11–16), David has prayed for God's protection (Psalm 59:1–2) and denounced his enemies as violent, evil, animal-like predators (Psalm 59:3–5). By comparing them to dogs (Psalm 59:6), he implies they are unclean and unworthy creatures who attack the weak at night (Psalm 22:16).

This verse extends the analogy of the enemy "howling" and "bellowing." Further, the idea of these enemies making noise is a sign of their arrogance. They are sure no one will hear—in this context, meaning they can plot as they choose, and no one will hold them accountable (Psalm 10:11). This is drastically wrong, as the Lord notices every word and action (Hebrews 4:13) and will hold all men accountable for their actions (Matthew 12:36).

David also points out the harm done by the slander of his enemies. Their words are dangerous and violent (Psalm 58:1–6)—like weapons themselves (Psalm 57:4; 140:3; Jeremiah 9:3; James 3:5–6). Like swords, words can wound in their own way. Paul warned the Galatian churches, "If you bite and devour one another, watch that you are not consumed by one another" (Galatians 5:15). Gossip, criticism, backbiting, and slander are verbal swords that inflict deep wounds on their targets. Ephesians 4:29 exhorts: "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion." The same chapter further exhorts believers to discard wrath, anger, clamor, slander, and malice (Ephesians 4:31).