Psalms 58
Psalm 58 can be divided into three main parts. First (verses 1-2), the psalmist denounces the injustice and wrongdoing of human judges and those in power. Even though they are in a position where they should proclaim justice, they instead do evil. Second (verses 3-5), it emphasizes that their corruption comes from something deeply rooted, beginning in their youth, revealing how profoundly sinful humans are. Finally (verses 6-11), the psalmist pleads for God’s judgment on unjust people and sings that, in the end, the righteous will rejoice when they see God’s justice carried out.
1verseFor the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A poem by David. Do you indeed speak righteousness, silent ones? Do you judge blamelessly, you sons of men?
2verseNo, in your heart you plot injustice. You measure out the violence of your hands in the earth.
3verseThe wicked go astray from the womb. They are wayward as soon as they are born, speaking lies.
4verseTheir poison is like the poison of a snake, like a deaf cobra that stops its ear,
5versewhich doesn’t listen to the voice of charmers, no matter how skillful the charmer may be.
6verseBreak their teeth, God, in their mouth. Break out the great teeth of the young lions, LORD.
7verseLet them vanish like water that flows away. When they draw the bow, let their arrows be made blunt.
8verseLet them be like a snail which melts and passes away, like the stillborn child, who has not seen the sun.
9verseBefore your pots can feel the heat of the thorns, he will sweep away the green and the burning alike.
10verseThe righteous shall rejoice when he sees the vengeance. He shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked,
11verseso that men shall say, “Most certainly there is a reward for the righteous. Most certainly there is a God who judges the earth.”
Essential Meaning and Meditation
This psalm clearly highlights the absence of justice in human society, the strong lament over it, and God’s judgment that establishes justice. While the psalmist brings his complaint about his injustice, he also seeks rest by ultimately trusting in God’s righteousness and judgment. In this process, the pain caused by human unrighteousness and the deep conviction that God will surely bring justice about are powerfully revealed.
Meditation Points
- From the place where I stand, consider how sensitive I am to speaking the truth and practicing justice.
- When I experience unfairness, meditate on how I can hold a faithful attitude of entrusting justice to God before my own anger or judgment.
Try Applying It to Yourself
- In everyday life, when I face unjust situations, let’s often check whether my words and actions reflect the will of God, who is righteous in justice.
- Practice a life of patience: be honest with God about the anger and frustration that come from unrighteousness, but entrust the solution and judgment to God.
