Psalms 64:8
So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall flee away.
Psalms 64:8
Verse 8 portrays the consequence of the divine intervention: “So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall flee away.” The attackers’ own words entrap them, turning their weapons against themselves. The public exposure of their deceit leads to fear and withdrawal by others. The verse highlights the social perimeter of justice: once the truth emerges, the community’s trust is shaken, and fear of consequences drives people away from complicity.
This line reflects God’s justice as social correction—the exposure of wickedness leads to communal judgment and withdrawal from those who would enable wrongdoing. It also echoes the biblical principle that those who misuse speech will suffer the consequences of their own words.
Practical takeaways: avoid colluding with gossip or covert harm; if you’ve participated in spreading falsehoods, consider confessing and seeking reconciliation. If you witness slander, resist spreading it and, when possible, correct misinformation. In leadership, encourage accountability and transparency so that destructive words don’t have fertile ground to grow.
Cross-References: Proverbs 26:28; James 3:6; Proverbs 18:21; Psalm 39:1