Psalm 140

Psalm 140 is a psalm belonging to the Book of Psalms in the Hebrew Bible, and consequently the Old Testament of the Christian Bible. It is a prayer for deliverance from wicked enemies.

Content:

Psalm 140 is attributed to David in its superscription. The psalm expresses the psalmist's plea to God for protection from malicious individuals who are plotting against him. He describes their evil intentions, their sharp tongues, and their deceitful schemes. The psalmist seeks refuge and deliverance from these enemies, trusting in God's righteousness and justice. He prays for their plots to backfire and for them to be caught in their own traps. The psalm concludes with the psalmist's confidence in God's vindication of the righteous and his unwavering support for the oppressed.

Themes:

Key themes within Psalm 140 include:

• Protection from Enemies: A central theme is the request for divine protection from those who seek to harm the psalmist.
• Trust in God: The psalm emphasizes the importance of placing trust in God's power and righteousness during times of adversity.
• Divine Justice: The psalmist expresses faith in God's ability to deliver justice and punish the wicked.
• Hope and Assurance: Despite facing opposition, the psalm concludes with hope and assurance in God's unwavering support.

Use in Liturgy:

Psalm 140 is used in both Jewish and Christian liturgical traditions. Its themes of deliverance and trust in God make it appropriate for times of trouble and uncertainty. In some traditions, it is recited during periods of persecution or spiritual warfare.