Psalms 58:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 58:4
4 Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear;
Chapter Context
Psalms 58 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, righteousness, faith. 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 6-11: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 58:4
4 Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear;
Analysis
The serpent imagery evokes the Eden temptation, identifying wicked leaders with Satan's character. The 'deaf adder' (cobra) that refuses to hear the charmer represents judicial hardening—those who persistently resist truth become incapable of responding. This anticipates Jesus's quotation of Isaiah 6:9-10 regarding those who have eyes but cannot see (Matthew 13:13-15).
Historical Context
Snake charming was practiced in ancient Egypt and Palestine. The image of an adder refusing to respond to the charmer's music despite normally being susceptible illustrates willful rebellion—not ignorance but hardened resistance to known truth.
Reflection
- What does judicial hardening teach about the consequences of persistent sin?
- How can you discern between those who are ignorant and those who are judicially hardened?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 140:3, Ecclesiastes 10:11, James 3:8