There they are, bellowing with their mouths with swords in their lips— for “Who,” they think, “will hear us?”
English Standard Version (ESV)
These enemies aren't just speaking words; they are belching them out, an image of their words pouring forth uncontrollably and disgustingly, like a fountain of wickedness. Their speech isn't just harsh; it's described as swords in their lips, highlighting the lethal intent behind their constant verbal assaults.
There they are, bellowing with their mouths with swords in their lips— for “Who,” they think, “will hear us?”
English Standard Version (ESV)
David is describing the relentless, malicious attacks of his enemies who are actively plotting his demise. They are spewing abuse and threats with such brazenness, as if no one, not even God, can hear or will intervene, believing their actions are beyond consequence or accountability. This arrogant defiance directly sets up David's trust in God's ultimate justice and protection.
Ever felt like someone's words cut deeper than a physical blow? This verse paints a vivid picture of verbal assault.
The Psalmist describes his enemies' speech with powerful imagery: "swords are in their lips." This isn't just about harsh language; it speaks to words used to wound, threaten, and destroy. Think of it like this:
Why do people speak so cruelly and threateningly? Sometimes, it's because they think no one is listening.
The latter part of the verse reveals a chilling mindset: "for 'Who,' they think, 'will hear us?'" This isn't just a question; it's a declaration of their perceived impunity.
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This psalm vividly portrays the intense personal danger and slander David faced as a fugitive from King Saul, highlighting the violent threats and dismissive attitudes of his persecutors who felt emboldened by their perceived impunity.
c. 1030 BC— this verse
Saul's Jealousy and Persecution of David
King Saul, consumed by jealousy of David's popularity, repeatedly attempts to kill him, forcing David into hiding and a fugitive existence.
c. 1030-1010 BC
David in Hiding
David spends years on the run, often narrowly escaping Saul's forces, seeking refuge in various wilderness areas and even in enemy territory.
c. 1022 BC
David Spares Saul's Life
Twice David has opportunities to kill Saul in the wilderness of Ziph and Ein Gedi but refuses, demonstrating his respect for God's anointed king.
c. 1010 BC
Death of Saul
Saul and his sons are killed in battle against the Philistines at Mount Gilboa, ending Saul's reign and David's long period of persecution.
This passage echoes the idea of destructive words coming from the mouth, describing people who 'bend their tongues like bows to shoot lies; they are valiant in the land, not with truth, but with evil.'
Proverbs 12:18This proverb directly contrasts rash, sharp words with wise ones, stating, 'There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.'
Psalm 64:3Similar to the verse in Psalms 59, this passage describes enemies whose words are weapons: 'They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows.'
Matthew 12:36Jesus speaks about the accountability for every careless word spoken, reinforcing the gravity of what comes from our mouths: 'But I tell you that on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.'
Ephesians 4:29This verse offers a powerful counter-command to destructive speech, instructing believers to 'Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.'
pulpitPsalms 59:7: "Behold, they belch out with their mouth: swords are in their lips: for who, say they, doth hear?"
Verse 7. - Behold, they belch out with their mouth. All night long they keep uttering abuse and execrations and threats (comp. Psalm 94:4). Swords are in their lips (comp. Psalm 57:4). Speeches that wound and cut to the heart. For who, say they, doth hear! (comp. Psalm 10:11-13; Psalm 64:5; Psalm 73:11; Psalm 94:7). They think themselves irresponsible for their words. No one will hear…
clarkePsalms 59:7: "Behold, they belch out with their mouth: swords are in their lips: for who, say they, doth hear?"
They belch out with their mouth - They use the lowest insult, the basest abuse. They deal in sarcasm, ridicule, slander, and lies.
These enemies aren't just speaking words; they are belching them out, an image of their words pouring forth uncontrollably and disgustingly, like a fountain of wickedness. Their speech isn't just harsh; it's described as swords in their lips, highlighting the lethal intent behind their constant verbal assaults.
David is describing the relentless, malicious attacks of his enemies who are actively plotting his demise. They are spewing abuse and threats with such brazenness, as if no one, not even God, can hear or will intervene, believing their actions are beyond consequence or accountability. This arrogant defiance directly sets up David's trust in God's ultimate justice and protection.
David is describing the relentless, malicious attacks of his enemies who are actively plotting his demise. They are spewing abuse and threats with such brazenness, as if no one, not even God, can hear or will intervene, believing their actions are beyond consequence or accountability. This arrogant defiance directly sets up David's trust in God's ultimate justice and protection.
"There they are, bellowing with their mouths with swords in their lips— for “Who,” they think, “will hear us?”" — These enemies aren't just speaking words; they are belching them out, an image of their words pouring forth uncontrollably and disgustingly, like a fountain of wickedness. Their speech isn't just h…
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Last reviewed October 2026