Psalms 7:14
Behold, he travaileth with iniquity, and hath conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood.
Original Language Analysis
יְחַבֶּל
Behold he travaileth
H2254
יְחַבֶּל
Behold he travaileth
Strong's:
H2254
Word #:
2 of 7
to wind tightly (as a rope), i.e., to bind; specifically, by a pledge; figuratively, to pervert, destroy; also to writhe in pain (especially of partur
אָ֑וֶן
with iniquity
H205
אָ֑וֶן
with iniquity
Strong's:
H205
Word #:
3 of 7
strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol
וְהָרָ֥ה
and hath conceived
H2029
וְהָרָ֥ה
and hath conceived
Strong's:
H2029
Word #:
4 of 7
to be (or become) pregnant, conceive (literally or figuratively)
עָ֝מָ֗ל
mischief
H5999
עָ֝מָ֗ל
mischief
Strong's:
H5999
Word #:
5 of 7
toil, i.e., wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind
Cross References
Job 15:35They conceive mischief, and bring forth vanity, and their belly prepareth deceit.James 1:15Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.Isaiah 33:11Ye shall conceive chaff, ye shall bring forth stubble: your breath, as fire, shall devour you.Job 15:20The wicked man travaileth with pain all his days, and the number of years is hidden to the oppressor.
Historical Context
Birth imagery for sin appears throughout wisdom literature. The progression from conception to birth would resonate with David's audience. This reflects Hebrew psychology understanding that actions flow from heart conditions. Jesus taught the same principle - evil comes from within (Mark 7:21-23).
Questions for Reflection
- What sinful 'conceptions' are you nurturing in your heart that will eventually give birth to sinful actions?
- How can you abort sinful thoughts before they develop into full-blown transgressions?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse uses birth imagery to describe sin's progression. 'Travaileth' (labor pains), 'conceived,' and 'brought forth' show sin's development from internal corruption to external expression. 'Iniquity' is conceived, 'mischief' is carried, and 'falsehood' is born. This progression teaches that sin begins in the heart before manifesting in action. James 1:14-15 uses similar birth metaphor. The imagery shows sin's productivity - it never remains static but always produces fruit, ultimately bringing forth death.