Psalms 5:9

For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.

Psalms 5:9 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 5 is David’s morning prayer for guidance and protection. He asks God to lead him and to defend him from enemies. In this verse, David describes the character of those who oppose him. Their wickedness is not hidden from God, who sees the heart and hears every word. This prayer reflects David’s daily dependence on God for safety and direction.

Meaning

David first says there is no faithfulness in their mouth. Their words cannot be trusted because truth is absent. Then he says their inward part is very wickedness. This means the evil is not only on the surface; it fills their thoughts, desires, and intentions. The throat is called an open sepulchre, an open grave. This picture shows that their speech brings death and corruption, just as a grave holds decay. Finally, they flatter with their tongue, using smooth words to deceive and manipulate others. The verse exposes that deceitful speech comes from a corrupt heart.

Biblical connections

The apostle Paul quotes this verse in Romans 3:13 to show that all people have sinned and that deceitful speech is common to humanity. This connection does not weaken David’s complaint; it widens it. The same corruption that David saw in his enemies exists in every human heart apart from God’s grace. Therefore, this verse is not only about ancient foes but also about the need for every person to be changed by God. It reminds us that God sees beyond outward words to the inward reality of the heart.

Application

This verse calls us to examine our own speech. Do our words carry truth and life, or do they tear down? The open grave warns us that careless or deceitful words can destroy trust and wound others. We must avoid flattery that seeks personal gain. Instead, our words should be honest, kind, and helpful. The condition of the heart matters most, for out of it the mouth speaks. We can ask God to purify our hearts so that our speech reflects His truth.

Reflection

God sees beyond outward appearances. He knows the true condition of every heart. David could bring his complaint to God because he trusted that God would judge rightly. We can do the same. When we are hurt by deceitful words, we can pray for God’s protection and justice. At the same time, we ask God to purify our own hearts so that our words may be faithful and life-giving. This verse also gives comfort that God hears the cries of the righteous and will deal justly with the wicked.