Psalms 17:12
Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey, and as it were a young lion lurking in secret places.
Original Language Analysis
יִכְס֣וֹף
that is greedy
H3700
יִכְס֣וֹף
that is greedy
Strong's:
H3700
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, to become pale, i.e., (by implication) to pine after; also to fear
לִטְר֑וֹף
of his prey
H2963
לִטְר֑וֹף
of his prey
Strong's:
H2963
Word #:
4 of 7
to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)
וְ֝כִכְפִ֗יר
and as it were a young lion
H3715
וְ֝כִכְפִ֗יר
and as it were a young lion
Strong's:
H3715
Word #:
5 of 7
a village (as covered in by walls); also a young lion (perhaps as covered with a mane)
Cross References
Psalms 7:2Lest he tear my soul like a lion, rending it in pieces, while there is none to deliver.Psalms 10:9He lieth in wait secretly as a lion in his den: he lieth in wait to catch the poor: he doth catch the poor, when he draweth him into his net.1 Peter 5:8Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Historical Context
Lions were real threats in ancient Israel's wilderness, making this powerful imagery for human predators. Young lions were especially dangerous as hungry hunters.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you recognize predatory evil even when disguised or hidden?
- What spiritual disciplines help you remain alert to danger?
Analysis & Commentary
The double lion metaphor—a lion 'eager to tear' and a young lion 'lurking in ambush'—portrays predatory evil. The Hebrew 'kasaph' (eager/long) suggests intense desire to destroy. This imagery recalls Satan as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8) and anticipates Revelation's imagery of beastly persecution. Reformed theology recognizes that Satan works through human agents to oppose God's people.