Psalms 37:12
The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.
Original Language Analysis
רָ֭שָׁע
The wicked
H7563
רָ֭שָׁע
The wicked
Strong's:
H7563
Word #:
2 of 6
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
Cross References
Psalms 35:16With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth.Micah 2:1Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.Daniel 8:12And an host was given him against the daily sacrifice by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practised, and prospered.Psalms 31:13For I have heard the slander of many: fear was on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern imagery used animals gnashing teeth to depict ferocious attack. David applies this to human enemies whose hatred resembles predatory animals stalking prey.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond when you discern others plotting against you?
- What does enemies' intense hatred reveal about the spiritual battle underlying physical opposition?
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Analysis & Commentary
The wicked 'plotteth' (Hebrew 'zamam,' devises, purposes) reveals premeditated hostility toward the just. Gnashing teeth (also in Psalm 35:16, 37:12) expresses rage and violent intent—teeth bared in fury. This image appears when religious authorities opposed Jesus (Acts 7:54) and describes hell's occupants (Matthew 8:12). The contrast between plotting schemes and gnashing teeth shows both calculated malice and passionate hatred. Yet the verse presents this factually, not alarmingly—the subsequent verse reveals God's response.