King James Version
What Does Psalms 58:5 Mean?
“Which will not hearken to the voice of charmers, charming never so wisely. charming: or, be the charmer never so cunning”
Psalms 58:5 · KJV
Context
3
The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies. as soon: Heb. from the belly
4
Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear; like the poison: Heb. according to the likeness, etc adder: or, asp
5
Which will not hearken to the voice of charmers, charming never so wisely. charming: or, be the charmer never so cunning
6
Break their teeth, O God, in their mouth: break out the great teeth of the young lions, O LORD.
7
Let them melt away as waters which run continually: when he bendeth his bow to shoot his arrows, let them be as cut in pieces.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryContinuing the serpent metaphor, the 'voice of charmers' represents attempts to move the hardened through human wisdom or eloquence. That the adder refuses 'charming never so wisely' demonstrates that judicial hardening makes one immune to persuasion. Only God's sovereign regeneration can overcome such hardness (John 3:3-8), as human means prove insufficient.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The image reflects the reality that some remained hardened despite David's righteous rule and prophetic ministry. This anticipates Israel's pattern of rejecting prophets, culminating in rejecting Christ despite His perfect wisdom and mighty works.
Reflection Questions
- What does the futility of 'charming' the hardened teach about evangelism's dependence on God's Spirit?
- How should recognition of judicial hardening affect your perseverance in speaking truth?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsאֲשֶׁ֣ר1 of 8
H834who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
לֹא2 of 8
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יִ֭שְׁמַע3 of 8
“Which will not hearken”
H8085to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
חוֹבֵ֖ר6 of 8
“charming”
H2266to join (literally or figuratively); specifically (by means of spells) to fascinate
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 58:5 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 58:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge