Psalms 64:3
Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words:
Psalms 64:3
Verse 3 intensifies the image: those who “whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words.” The metaphor of the tongue as a weapon highlights how speech can be as dangerous as any physical weapon. In the social world of the psalmist, words can wound deeply—slander, lies, and malicious gossip—turning communities against a person. The mention of “bows” suggests deliberate, coordinated attack. The imagery is vivid and piercing: language designed to harm reputation, undermine character, and instill fear. This represents a common human experience across cultures: verbal hostility that aims to isolate and defeat. The verse is a lament over how easily words can become weapons in the hands of the wicked.
This verse underscores the moral gravity of speech. It aligns with James’ teaching in the New Testament about the power of the tongue (James 3). Theologically, it reveals that human sin manifests both in action and in word; the heart is where deadly speech originates, making inner motives a central concern. The psalmist’s plea also implies that God’s justice extends to speech: He can judge and restrain those who weaponize language against the righteous.
Practically, this invites careful self-examination: are your words cutting or healing? When you see others attacking someone with harsh words or sarcasm, resist joining in and consider how you can redirect conversations toward truth and reconciliation. For leaders or moderators, create clear guidelines that discourage destructive rhetoric and encourage respectful disagreement. In personal life, practice “words of life”: slow to speak, evaluate motives, and choose speech that builds trust rather than tears down. If you are wronged, instead of replying with biting rhetoric, seek a constructive response that exposes truth without escalating harm. This approach aligns with holiness and integrity in daily communication.
Cross-References: Proverbs 12:18; Proverbs 15:1; James 3:5–6; Ephesians 4:29; Proverbs 26:24–26