Psalms 64:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 64:5
5 They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of laying snares privily; they say, Who shall see them?
Chapter Context
Psalms 64 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, creation, holiness. 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 6-10: 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 64:5
5 They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of laying snares privily; they say, Who shall see them?
Analysis
The wicked encouraging 'themselves in an evil matter' reveals conspiracy's self-reinforcing nature. 'Commune of laying snares privily' indicates shared plotting. Their question 'Who shall see them?' demonstrates practical atheism—assuming no divine accountability. This hubris anticipates the fool's claim 'There is no God' (Psalm 14:1).
Historical Context
The secret plotting recalls Absalom's conspiracy where he 'stole the hearts' of Israel (2 Samuel 15:6) through private conversations undermining David. Such covert operations depend on assuming God doesn't observe.
Reflection
- How does the wicked's mutual encouragement in evil parallel or parody believers' mutual encouragement in good?
- What does the assumption 'Who shall see?' reveal about the importance of God's omniscience?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 10:11, 140:5