Psalms 120:3 (KJV)

What does Psalms 120:3 mean?

Psalms 120:3 asks what kind of punishment or response is fitting for someone who lies or uses deceitful speech, calling out to the "false tongue." The verse is a rhetorical question, expressing frustration and anticipation of consequences for dishonesty.

The speaker is an individual in distress, likely the psalmist, addressing God about the harm caused by lies and slander. The verse comes from a context where the psalmist feels surrounded by deceitful people and is seeking justice or relief. The question highlights the seriousness of false speech and sets up the following verses, which describe the consequences for those who use their tongue to deceive.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 120:3

• "Given" (נָתַן, natan): This word means "to give" or "to bestow." Here, it asks what will be given as a response or consequence to the false tongue, pointing to the idea of a fitting repayment.
• "Done" (יָסַף, yasaf): This word often means "to add" or "to do further." In this verse, it suggests what more could be done to the deceitful person, emphasizing the seriousness of their wrongdoing.
• "False" (רְמִיָּה, remiyyah): This word means "deceitful" or "treacherous." It describes the tongue as intentionally misleading or harmful, not just mistaken.
• "Tongue" (לָשׁוֹן, lashon): This is the common word for "tongue," often used to mean "speech" or "language." Here, it focuses on the person’s words as the source of harm.

Why Psalms 120:3 matters

• This verse clarifies that the psalmist is not just upset about lies in general but is deeply troubled by the damage caused by deceitful speech, making the issue personal and urgent.
• By asking what should be done to the "false tongue," Psalms 120:3 sets up the expectation that God will judge or respond to dishonesty, which is answered in the next verse.
• The verse connects to the wider theme of Psalms 120, where the speaker seeks deliverance from a hostile and untruthful environment, highlighting the emotional and spiritual impact of slander.