King James Version

What Does Psalms 52:2 Mean?

Psalms 52:2 in the King James Version says “Thy tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 52 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Thy tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.

Psalms 52:2 · KJV


Context

1

To the chief Musician, Maschil, A Psalm of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said unto him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech. Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God endureth continually.

2

Thy tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.

3

Thou lovest evil more than good; and lying rather than to speak righteousness. Selah.

4

Thou lovest all devouring words, O thou deceitful tongue. O thou: or, and the deceitful tongue


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The accusation: 'Thy tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.' The 'tongue' represents speech and influence. 'Deviseth' indicates deliberate planning of harm. The razor image suggests cutting precision that wounds while appearing to serve. Deceitful speech appears helpful while actually harming.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Doeg's report to Saul about Ahimelech helping David (1 Samuel 22:9-10) led to the massacre of 85 priests. His 'sharp razor' words killed through royal decree.

Reflection Questions

  1. How can speech 'work deceitfully' like a razor?
  2. What is particularly dangerous about calculated, careful evil speech?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
הַ֭וּוֹת1 of 7

mischiefs

H1942

by implication, of falling); desire; also ruin

תַּחְשֹׁ֣ב2 of 7

deviseth

H2803

properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou

לְשׁוֹנֶ֑ךָ3 of 7

Thy tongue

H3956

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

כְּתַ֥עַר4 of 7

razor

H8593

a knife or razor (as making bare); also a scabbard (as being bare, i.e., empty)

מְ֝לֻטָּ֗שׁ5 of 7

like a sharp

H3913

properly, to hammer out (an edge), i.e., to sharpen

עֹשֵׂ֥ה6 of 7

working

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

רְמִיָּֽה׃7 of 7

deceitfully

H7423

remissness, treachery


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 52:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 52:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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