Psalm 140:5

Psalm 140:5, in plain English

The proud people hunting David have spread traps along his path and set lures everywhere—they're trying to catch him however they can.

Why it's here

Imagine walking through terrain where your enemies have hidden snares, nets, and bait. You can't see all the dangers, so every step is uncertain. This is what David's daily life felt like—surrounded by hidden threats from proud people who thought they could outsmart him.

Who's speaking

David, describing the comprehensive nature of the threat surrounding him.

Where it sits in the story

This language of being hunted and trapped appears throughout the Psalms. It speaks to the very real experience of being targeted by powerful enemies with resources and patience. It's also a spiritual metaphor for how sin and temptation can surround us.

The scholarly reading

The psalmist describes the tactical methods of his proud adversaries—they have set concealed traps and snares intended to ensnare him along his life's path.

Language and setting

The proud (Hebrew: geimm, or in some manuscripts, gaim) represent those who rely on their own power and resources rather than God's provision. The imagery of snares, nets, and lures draws from the language of hunting and warfare, suggesting that the enemies employ calculated, methodical strategies rather than passionate outbursts—what Delitzsch termed 'the patient malignity of hate.'

Voice

The psalmist, now describing not just the enemies' words but their concrete tactical preparations.

Significance

The motif of the wicked's snare being set for the righteous appears throughout Scripture (Psalm 91:3, Proverbs 29:5) with the consistent assurance that God frustrates these schemes—a promise that sustains believers through times when enemies' plans seem humanly superior.

3They sharpen their tongues like snakes; the venom of vipers is on their lips.

4Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked. Keep me safe from men of violence who scheme to make me stumble.

5The proud hide a snare for me; the cords of their net are spread along the path, and lures are set out for me.

6I say to the LORD, “You are my God.” Hear, O LORD, my cry for help.

7O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You shield my head in the day of battle.

Read all of Psalm 140 — Violent men plot evil. They sharpen their tongues like a serpent's. David prays for deliverance — and trusts that God maintains the cause of the afflicted.