Psalms 140:11

Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth: evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.

Psalms 140:11 (KJV)

Context

David wrote this psalm as a prayer for deliverance from enemies who attacked him with both words and violence. In this verse, he asks God to keep the “evil speaker” from being established in the earth. The Hebrew phrase “man of tongue” (ish lashon) points to someone who uses slander, false accusations, or harmful speech to destroy others. Such a person seeks influence and power, but David pleads that they will not succeed.

Meaning

The first line is a request: God, do not let the wicked speaker gain a firm place. The second line declares a certainty: “evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.” The word “hunt” pictures evil pursuing the violent person like a hunter tracks prey. Their own wrongdoing becomes the trap that brings them down. This is not personal revenge; it is trust in God’s righteous judgment. The psalmist’s plea is for God’s intervention, not for personal vengeance.

Biblical connections

This verse reflects a repeated Scripture principle: God opposes the proud and brings justice to the oppressor. The psalmist does not take vengeance himself but leaves room for God to act. The same confidence appears in Psalm 7:15-16, where the wicked fall into the pit they dig for others. This teaches that God defends the righteous and brings the wicked to ruin.

Application

Believers should guard their own tongues, refusing slander and deceit. They can also pray for protection from those who use words to harm. When evil seems to prosper, this verse reassures them that God sees and will act in His time. Trusting God means leaving justice in His hands while we speak truth and love.

Reflection

Do you trust God to defend you, or do you seek your own revenge? Let this prayer shape your heart toward both careful speech and patient faith in God’s justice.