Seeking Divine Protection: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 140

✨ Executive Summary ✨

Psalm 140, a fervent prayer for divine protection against evil men, resonates deeply within the Coptic Orthodox tradition. David, facing relentless persecution, cries out to God for deliverance from the wicked and violent. This Psalm explores themes of trust in God’s unwavering faithfulness, the deceptive nature of the enemy, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness. We will delve into each verse, illuminating its historical context, spiritual significance, and practical application for our lives today. This commentary will draw upon Patristic wisdom, scriptural connections, and Coptic Orthodox teachings to unlock the profound truths contained within this powerful plea for divine intervention. May this exploration deepen our understanding of God’s protection and strengthen our resolve to stand firm in the face of adversity, always seeking divine protection against evil men.

Introduction: In a world riddled with deceit and malice, the words of Psalm 140 offer solace and strength. This psalm, attributed to David, is a desperate cry for divine protection against evil men, a sentiment that echoes through the ages and resonates deeply within our own lives. Let us explore how this ancient prayer continues to offer guidance and hope.

📖 Commentary Sections 📖

Verse 1: Deliver Me, O Lord, from Evil Men

Hebrew: לַמְנַצֵּחַ מִזְמוֹר לְדָוִד׃ חַלְּצֵנִי יְהוָה מֵאָדָם רָע מֵאִישׁ חֲמָסִים תִּצְּרֵנִי

KJV: Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man: preserve me from the violent man.

NKJV: Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men.

This opening verse immediately establishes the psalm’s central theme: a plea for deliverance. The Hebrew words convey a sense of urgency and desperation. David isn’t simply asking for help; he’s begging for rescue. The “evil man” (אָדָם רָע) and the “violent man” (אִישׁ חֲמָסִים) represent more than just physical threats; they symbolize the spiritual forces arrayed against righteousness. In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, we understand this as a reflection of the ongoing battle between good and evil, a battle waged not just externally but within our own hearts. We are called to pray continually for deliverance, as St. Anthony the Great exhorted: “Ἀεὶ προσεύχεσθε, ἵνα μὴ εἰσέλθητε εἰς πειρασμόν” (Aeì proseúchesthe, hína mḕ eiséltēte eis peirasmón – Pray without ceasing, lest you enter into temptation). (Athanasius, Life of Anthony, 11). This constant prayer is our shield. If you need resources to start your own spiritual journey, visit WordPress Hosting.

Spiritual Application: Recognize the real, albeit often unseen, presence of evil in the world and in your own life. Cultivate a habit of constant prayer, seeking God’s protection from temptation and harmful influences.

Verse 2: Who Devise Mischiefs in Their Heart

Hebrew: אֲשֶׁר חֹשְׁבִים רָעוֹת בְּלֵב יום־יוֹם יָגֻרוּ מִלְחָמוֹת׃

KJV: Which imagine mischiefs in their heart; continually are they gathered together for war.

NKJV: Who plan evil things in their hearts; they continually gather together for war.

Here, the psalm reveals the nature of the enemy: they “devise mischiefs in their heart.” The danger isn’t just in their outward actions but in their inward intentions. This highlights the insidious nature of sin, how it festers and grows in the darkness of the unrepentant heart. The phrase “continually are they gathered together for war” speaks to the relentless, persistent nature of evil. It’s a constant assault, a spiritual warfare that demands vigilance. St. Cyril of Alexandria wrote extensively on the importance of guarding the heart: “Τὴν καρδίαν φυλάξωμεν, ὅτι ἐκ ταύτης ἐξόδοι ζωῆς” (Tḕn kardían phuláxōmen, hóti ek taútēs exódoi zōês – Let us guard the heart, for out of it are the issues of life). (Commentary on Proverbs, 4:23). The key to protecting ourselves from these evil designs is keeping our hearts pure and focused on Christ.

Spiritual Application: Examine your own heart. Are there any seeds of malice, envy, or resentment taking root? Root them out through repentance, prayer, and the practice of forgiveness.

Verse 3: They Sharpen Their Tongues Like a Serpent

Hebrew: שָׁנְנוּ לְשׁוֹנָם כְּמוֹ־נָחָשׁ חֲמַס עַכְשׁוּב תַּחַת שְׂפָתֵימוֹ סֶלָה׃

KJV: They sharpen their tongues like a serpent; adders’ poison is under their lips. Selah.

NKJV: They sharpen their tongues like a serpent; the poison of asps is under their lips. Selah.

This verse uses vivid imagery to describe the destructive power of the tongue. The “serpent” is a clear allusion to the serpent in the Garden of Eden, the ultimate deceiver. The “adders’ poison” represents the venomous lies and slander that can destroy reputations and relationships. The tongue, though small, can inflict immense damage. St. James warns us, “ὁ γὰρ λόγος τῆς ἀδικίας πῦρ ἀνάπτει” (ho gar lógos tēs adikías pûr anáptei – For the tongue of injustice sets on fire) (James 3:6). We must be mindful of the words we speak, ensuring that they are seasoned with grace and truth. Consider visiting the Domain Names page.

Spiritual Application: Be mindful of your speech. Avoid gossip, slander, and harsh words. Use your tongue to build up and encourage others, speaking words of truth and love.

Verse 4: Keep Me, O Lord, from the Hands of the Wicked

Hebrew: שָׁמְרֵנִי יְהוָה מִיְּדֵי רָשָׁע מֵאִישׁ חֲמָסִים תִּצְּרֵנִי אֲשֶׁר חָשְׁבוּ לִדְחוֹת צְעָדָי׃

KJV: Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from the violent man; who have purposed to overthrow my goings.

NKJV: Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have purposed to make my steps stumble.

David now explicitly asks for protection from the actions of the wicked. He recognizes that they actively seek to “overthrow my goings,” meaning to disrupt his path and cause him to stumble. This highlights the intentionality of evil. The wicked aren’t simply acting out of ignorance; they are deliberately trying to harm and derail the righteous. This verse connects to the deuterocanonical Book of Wisdom, where it is written: “Let us lie in wait for the righteous man, because he is not for our turn, and he is clean contrary to our doings” (Wisdom 2:12). The world often opposes those who strive for righteousness.

Spiritual Application: Be aware of the schemes and strategies of the enemy. Pray for discernment to recognize their tactics and for strength to resist their influence.

Verse 5: The Proud Have Hid a Snare for Me

Hebrew: טָמְנוּ גֵאִים פַּח לִי וַחֲבָלִים פָּרְשׂוּ רֶשֶׁת לְיַד מַעְגָל מֹקְשִׁים שָׁתוּ לִי סֶלָה׃

KJV: The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set gins for me. Selah.

NKJV: The proud have hidden a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set traps for me. Selah.

This verse paints a picture of cunning and deceit. The “proud” (גֵאִים), those who are arrogant and self-righteous, have laid hidden traps to ensnare David. The “snare,” “cords,” “net,” and “gins” all represent the various ways in which the wicked seek to capture and destroy the righteous. Their tactics are subtle and deceptive. We are reminded of Christ’s warning: “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves” (Matthew 7:15). We must be vigilant, always examining the motives and actions of those around us.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate humility. Pride blinds us to the dangers around us. Seek the wisdom of God to discern the true intentions of others and avoid being ensnared by their deceit.

Verse 6: I Said Unto the Lord, Thou Art My God

Hebrew: אָמַרְתִּי לַיהוָה אֵלִי אָתָּה הַאֲזִינָה יְהוָה קוֹל תַּחֲנוּנָי׃

KJV: I said unto the LORD, Thou art my God: hear the voice of my supplications, O LORD.

NKJV: I said to the LORD: “You are my God; Hear the voice of my supplications, O LORD.

In the midst of danger, David reaffirms his faith: “I said unto the LORD, Thou art my God.” This is a powerful declaration of trust and dependence. It’s a reminder that even when surrounded by enemies, we can find refuge in God’s unwavering love. This affirmation of faith is crucial, for it grounds us in truth and provides strength in the face of adversity. St. Augustine wrote, “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee” (Confessions, Book I, 1). Our ultimate rest and security are found in acknowledging God as our Lord and Savior.

Spiritual Application: In moments of fear and uncertainty, reaffirm your faith in God. Declare, “Thou art my God,” and trust in His power to protect and deliver you.

Verse 7: O God the Lord, the Strength of My Salvation

Hebrew: יְהוָה אֲדֹנָי עֹז יְשׁוּעָתִי סַכֹּתָה רֹאשִׁי בְּיוֹם נֶשֶׁק׃

KJV: O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou hast covered my head in the day of battle.

NKJV: O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head in the day of battle.

David acknowledges God as “the strength of my salvation.” He recognizes that his deliverance comes not from his own power or wisdom but from God alone. The phrase “thou hast covered my head in the day of battle” speaks to God’s protective presence, shielding him from harm. This covering can be understood both literally and spiritually. God provides both physical protection and spiritual guidance, guarding our minds and hearts from the attacks of the enemy. The image of God covering his head is reminiscent of the Old Testament practice of anointing kings, signifying divine favor and protection. This echoes throughout the Old Testament including the deuterocanonical books.

Spiritual Application: Acknowledge God as the source of your strength and salvation. Trust in His protective power, knowing that He will shield you from harm in times of trial.

Verse 8: Grant Not, O Lord, the Desires of the Wicked

Hebrew: אַל־תִּתֵּן יְהוָה מַאֲוַיֵּי רָשָׁע זְמָמוֹ אַל־תָּפֵק יוּרוּמוּ סֶלָה׃

KJV: Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked: further not his wicked device; lest they exalt themselves. Selah.

NKJV: Do not grant, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further their wicked schemes, lest they be exalted. Selah.

David now implores God to thwart the plans of the wicked. He prays that their “desires” and “wicked device” will not be fulfilled, lest they “exalt themselves.” This highlights the danger of allowing evil to prosper. When the wicked succeed, they are emboldened, and their influence spreads. This verse reminds us of the importance of praying for justice and for the defeat of evil forces. As we see in the Apocalypse, “The souls of them that were slain for the word of God… cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?” (Revelation 6:9-10).

Spiritual Application: Pray for the defeat of evil and the triumph of righteousness. Intercede for those who are oppressed and for the establishment of justice in the world. Do not be discouraged but understand that this is the great test on Earth.

Verse 9: As for the Head of Those That Compass Me About

Hebrew: רֹאשׁ מְסַבַּי לִי עֲמַל שְׂפָתֵימוֹ יַכְסֵימוֹ׃

KJV: As for the head of those that compass me about, let the mischief of their own lips cover them.

NKJV: As for the head of those who surround me, let the evil of their lips cover them.

This verse expresses a desire for just retribution. David prays that the “mischief of their own lips” will fall back upon the heads of those who surround him. This is not simply a vindictive curse but a plea for justice, that the wicked will be held accountable for their actions. This aligns with the concept of divine justice found throughout scripture. “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord” (Romans 12:19). In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, we are called to forgive our enemies, but we also trust that God will ultimately judge all things righteously.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s justice. Do not seek revenge but pray that the wicked will be brought to repentance and that righteousness will prevail.

Verse 10: Let Burning Coals Fall Upon Them

Hebrew: יַמִּיט עֲלֵיהֶם גֶּחָלִים בָּאֵשׁ יַפִּלֵם בַּמַּהֲמֹרוֹת בַּל־יָקוּמוּ׃

KJV: Let burning coals fall upon them: let them be cast into the fire; into deep pits, that they rise not up again.

NKJV: Let burning coals fall upon them; let them be cast into the fire, into deep pits, that they rise not up again.

The imagery becomes even more intense in this verse. David prays that “burning coals” will fall upon his enemies and that they will be cast into “deep pits” from which they cannot rise. This represents the ultimate destruction and defeat of evil. The “burning coals” symbolize God’s righteous judgment, consuming all that is impure. The “deep pits” represent the abyss of separation from God. This verse serves as a stark warning about the consequences of unrepentant sin. We should strive to live lives that are pleasing to God, lest we face His righteous judgment. One may wish to explore our wide range of web design options.

Spiritual Application: Live a life of repentance and obedience to God. Seek to avoid sin, knowing that it leads to destruction and separation from Him.

Verse 11: Let Not an Evil Speaker Be Established in the Earth

Hebrew: אִישׁ לָשׁוֹן בַּל־יִכּוֹן בָּאָרֶץ אִישׁ־חָמָס רָע יְצוּדֶנּוּ לְמַדְחֵפֹת׃

KJV: Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth: evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.

NKJV: Let not a slanderer be established in the earth; evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.

This verse emphasizes the importance of truth and righteousness in society. David prays that an “evil speaker” will not be established in the earth, meaning that those who spread lies and deceit will not gain power or influence. He also declares that “evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.” This is a principle of divine justice: evil ultimately destroys itself. The corrupt and dishonest, in the long run, always fall.

Spiritual Application: Stand for truth and righteousness in all that you do. Speak out against injustice and deception. Support those who uphold moral values and contribute to the common good.

Verse 12: I Know That the Lord Will Maintain the Cause of the Afflicted

Hebrew: יָדַעְתִּי כִּי־יַעֲשֶׂה יְהוָה דִּין עָנִי מִשְׁפַּט אֶבְיוֹנִים׃

KJV: I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the right of the poor.

NKJV: I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor.

This is a statement of faith and confidence. David declares, “I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the right of the poor.” He is certain that God will ultimately intervene on behalf of those who are suffering unjustly. This is a cornerstone of Coptic Orthodox theology. We believe in a God who cares deeply for the marginalized and oppressed and who will ultimately bring justice to the world. St. Basil the Great urged, “Share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house” (Rule, 297).

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s justice, even when you don’t see it immediately. Support those who are suffering and advocate for the rights of the poor and oppressed.

Verse 13: Surely the Righteous Shall Give Thanks Unto Thy Name

Hebrew: אַךְ צַדִּיקִים יוֹדוּ לִשְׁמֶךָ יֵשְׁבוּ יְשָׁרִים אֶת־פָּנֶיךָ׃

KJV: Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in thy presence.

NKJV: Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name; the upright shall dwell in Your presence.

The psalm concludes with a note of hope and thanksgiving. David declares that “the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name” and that “the upright shall dwell in thy presence.” This is the ultimate reward for those who remain faithful to God: eternal communion with Him. This is the essence of salvation, the promise of dwelling in God’s presence forever. This is a great blessing.

Spiritual Application: Live a life of righteousness and thanksgiving. Cultivate a spirit of gratitude for God’s blessings and look forward to the day when you will dwell in His presence forever.

🤔 FAQ ❓

• Q: Why is it important to pray for protection against evil?

  A: The world is filled with spiritual and physical dangers that can harm us. Praying for protection acknowledges our vulnerability and seeks God’s intervention to shield us from these threats, securing our souls and promoting spiritual well-being.

• Q: How can I apply the lessons of Psalm 140 to my daily life?

  A: Be mindful of your thoughts, words, and actions. Cultivate a habit of prayer, seeking God’s guidance and protection. Stand for truth and righteousness, and support those who are suffering. Remember constant repentance and confession are the keys to salvation and will assist you in staying protected.

• Q: What does it mean to “dwell in God’s presence”?

  A: “Dwelling in God’s presence” signifies a state of deep communion and fellowship with Him. It means living in accordance with His will, experiencing His love and grace, and finding joy and peace in His presence. This also means regularly partaking of the Mysteries (Sacraments) and reading His Holy Book, the Bible.

• Q: How can I trust in God’s justice when I see evil prospering in the world?

  A: It can be challenging to trust in God’s justice when evil seems to be winning. However, we must remember that God sees the bigger picture and that His timing is not always our timing. Trust that God will ultimately bring justice to the world, even if we don’t see it in our lifetime.

🕊️ Conclusion 🕊️

Psalm 140 is a timeless prayer for divine protection against evil men. It reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare and the importance of seeking God’s intervention in our lives. It also teaches us to trust in God’s justice, to stand for truth and righteousness, and to look forward to the day when we will dwell in His presence forever. By internalizing the truths of this psalm, we can strengthen our faith, cultivate a spirit of gratitude, and live lives that are pleasing to God, knowing He will always be there to provide divine protection against evil men. May this commentary guide you into a deeper relationship with our Lord.

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Psalm 140, Divine Protection, Evil Men, Coptic Orthodox, Prayer, Faith, Deliverance, Justice, Righteousness, Trust

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Explore a Coptic Orthodox commentary on Psalm 140, a powerful prayer for divine protection against evil men. Discover its spiritual meaning and practical applications.