Psalms 120:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 120:2
2 Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.
Chapter Context
Psalms 120 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, mercy, worship. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-7: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 120:2
2 Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.
Analysis
The specific distress emerges: the psalmist suffers from 'lying lips' and 'deceitful tongue.' The Hebrew 'lashon remiyah' (deceitful tongue) refers to speech intended to mislead, manipulate, or destroy. Slander and false testimony were serious offenses in Israel's covenant community (Exodus 20:16; 23:1), as they violated both truth and neighbor-love. The double reference to speech organs ('lips' and 'tongue') emphasizes the comprehensive nature of verbal assault the psalmist endures. This prayer for deliverance recognizes that words wound deeply - gossip, lies, and manipulation inflict real harm. The appeal to God acknowledges that only divine intervention can vindicate the falsely accused. Human defense against slander often proves inadequate; God must act as defender of the righteous.
Historical Context
Lying and deceit were endemic problems in ancient Near Eastern society, where honor and reputation carried immense weight. False accusation could result in loss of property, position, or even life. The Mosaic law prescribed severe penalties for false witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:16-21), recognizing slander's destructive power. The psalmist's appeal to God rather than human courts demonstrates faith that divine justice surpasses human judgment.
Reflection
- Why does Scripture repeatedly condemn lying and deceit as particularly offensive sins?
- How do 'lying lips' and 'deceitful tongue' harm both individuals and communities?
- What recourse do believers have when falsely accused or slandered?
- How does Jesus' experience of false testimony during His trial illuminate this psalm?
- In what ways might we inadvertently participate in spreading falsehood or gossip?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Proverbs 12:22