Psalms 94:4
How long shall they utter and speak hard things? and all the workers of iniquity boast themselves?
Original Language Analysis
יַבִּ֣יעוּ
How long shall they utter
H5042
יַבִּ֣יעוּ
How long shall they utter
Strong's:
H5042
Word #:
1 of 7
to gush forth; figuratively, to utter (good or bad words); specifically, to emit (a foul odor)
יְדַבְּר֣וּ
and speak
H1696
יְדַבְּר֣וּ
and speak
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
2 of 7
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Historical Context
Oppressive rulers often justified their actions through propaganda and self-exaltation, a pattern visible from ancient empires to modern totalitarian regimes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the speech of those around you reveal their hearts toward God and righteousness?
- What controls your tongue—humility before God or self-promotion?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The imagery of speech gushing forth (naba—pour out, bubble up) depicts unrestrained arrogant talk. 'Hard things' (atak) refers to insolent, presumptuous speech against God and His people. The self-aggrandizement of 'all the workers of iniquity' (po'ale aven) boasting themselves (yit'amaru) shows the connection between evil deeds and arrogant speech. This verse identifies verbal pride—boasting, blasphemy, and presumptuous talk—as evidence of deeper wickedness. James 3:5-6 echoes this concern about the tongue's destructive power.