Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The wording "evil man" and "violent man" isn't just a descriptor, but highlights a type of person driven by inner malice, not just outward action. This isn't about a specific enemy, but about the nature of wickedness that David asks God to protect him from.
Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This psalm unfolds as a desperate plea from someone facing relentless enemies, likely a period of intense persecution in David's life. The opening verses set the stage for a deep cry for divine protection against those who plot and use wicked words as weapons. It's a prayer born out of real danger, leading into further descriptions of deceitful tongues and hidden traps set by proud and violent individuals.
David cries out for deliverance from 'the evil man' and 'the violent man.' But is he talking about just one person, or a whole crew?
A Collective Threat
While David uses singular terms like 'evil man' and 'violent man' here, the context of the psalm quickly shifts to the plural. This isn't just about one personal nemesis, but often represents a group united in their wicked intentions.
David doesn't just fear physical violence; he's deeply concerned about the destructive power of words and plots. What are these 'weapons' and how do they harm?
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Words as Weapons
David identifies insidious tactics used by his enemies. These aren't just brute force, but cunning strategies designed to destroy reputation and undermine his standing.
Understand the original words
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
The proper name of the covenant-keeping God of Israel, the I AM, who reveals Himself to His people. It signifies His eternal self-existence and faithfulness to His promises.
ra' · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
In a biblical context, this refers to that which is morally corrupt, wicked, or contrary to the character and will of God. It encompasses both sinful actions and the destructive influence of those who oppose God’s righteousness.
chamas · Hebrew Noun
Refers to people characterized by ruthless, physical aggression or cruelty. The term implies a disregard for justice and the wellbeing of others, often resulting in oppression.
lebab · Hebrew Noun
The core of a person’s being, including their intellect, will, emotions, and moral intent. In the Bible, it is the seat of decision-making and the primary site where intentions toward God and neighbor are formed.
milchamah · Hebrew Noun
An active, ongoing state of conflict or hostility, often used metaphorically for spiritual or interpersonal strife. It signifies deliberate opposition and the mobilization of effort to cause harm.
This psalm resonates deeply with David's experience of being hunted by King Saul, a man initially chosen by God but consumed by jealousy and violence, showing how even leaders can become sources of great evil.
c. 1020 BC
Saul Anointed King
Saul is chosen and anointed as the first king of Israel, initiating a period of monarchy.
c. 1015 BC
David Anointed King
David, a young shepherd, is secretly anointed by Samuel as the future king of Israel, setting the stage for future conflict with Saul.
c. 1010 BC - 1000 BC— this verse
Saul's Persecution of David
As David gains popularity, King Saul becomes consumed by jealousy and hunts David relentlessly, forcing David into hiding and a fugitive life.
c. 1000 BC
David Spares Saul's Life
While Saul is in a cave, David and his men see him but spare his life, demonstrating David's character and the complex relationship between the two men.
c. 990 BC
Death of Saul
Saul dies in battle against the Philistines, ending his reign and his persecution of David.
c. 990 BC - 970 BC
David Reigns as King
David finally becomes king over all Israel, establishing Jerusalem as his capital and ushering in a golden age for the nation.
This passage echoes the sentiment of being surrounded by and needing deliverance from enemies, highlighting the constant threat faced by those who are righteous.
Psalms 54:3It describes the nature of the adversaries as 'insolent men' and 'violent men' who seek to destroy, mirroring the description in Psalm 140:1.
Proverbs 6:12-15This proverb describes a wicked and deceitful person whose actions are characterized by perversity, speaking lies, and causing strife, aligning with the 'evil' and 'violent' men David prays against.
Matthew 7:15Jesus warns about false prophets who come in sheep's clothing but are inwardly ravenous wolves, illustrating the deceptive and dangerous nature of 'evil' and 'violent' people described in the Psalm.
ellicottPsalms 140:1: "To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man: preserve me from the violent man;"
(1) Evil man.— The singular of the object in this verse must not lead us to think the psalm is an expression of personal feeling against one enemy, for it is immediately changed to the plural. Violent man.—See Margin.
clarkePsalms 140:1: "To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man: preserve me from the violent man;"
From the evil man - Saul, who was full of envy, jealousy, and cruelty against David, to whom both himself and his kingdom were under the highest obligations, endeavored by every means to destroy him.
The wording "evil man" and "violent man" isn't just a descriptor, but highlights a type of person driven by inner malice, not just outward action. This isn't about a specific enemy, but about the nature of wickedness that David asks God to protect him from.
This psalm unfolds as a desperate plea from someone facing relentless enemies, likely a period of intense persecution in David's life. The opening verses set the stage for a deep cry for divine protection against those who plot and use wicked words as weapons. It's a prayer born out of real danger, leading into further descriptions of deceitful tongues and hidden traps set by proud and violent individuals.
This psalm unfolds as a desperate plea from someone facing relentless enemies, likely a period of intense persecution in David's life. The opening verses set the stage for a deep cry for divine protection against those who plot and use wicked words as weapons. It's a prayer born out of real danger, leading into further descriptions of deceitful tongues and hidden traps set by proud and violent individuals.
"Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually." — The wording "evil man" and "violent man" isn't just a descriptor, but highlights a type of person driven by inner malice, not just outward action. This isn't about a specific enemy, but about the n…
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Last reviewed October 2026