Psalms 5:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 5:9
9 For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.
Chapter Context
Psalms 5 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, holiness, obedience. 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 6-12: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 5:9
9 For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.
Analysis
This verse describes the wicked with surgical precision. 'No faithfulness in their mouth' means unreliable speech. 'Their inward part is very wickedness' uses Hebrew 'hawwah' (destruction/ruin), indicating inner corruption. 'Open sepulchre' (throat) suggests deadly speech that spreads death. 'They flatter with their tongue' shows manipulative deception. Paul quotes this verse in Romans 3:13 as evidence of universal human sinfulness. The progression from internal corruption to external expression shows that speech reveals the heart (Matthew 12:34).
Historical Context
This description fits David's enemies who used smooth words while plotting betrayal - Absalom, Ahithophel, and others. The sepulchre imagery would resonate with Jews who understood ritual uncleanness from contact with death. Early Christians saw this fulfilled in the Pharisees whom Jesus called 'whited sepulchres' (Matthew 23:27).
Reflection
- How do your words reveal the true condition of your heart?
- In what ways are you tempted to use flattery or deceptive speech rather than speaking truth in love?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 51:6, 52:2, 62:4, Proverbs 29:5, Micah 6:12, Luke 11:44