Psalms 140:1 (KJV)

What does Psalms 140:1 mean?

Psalms 140:1 is a prayer from David asking the LORD to rescue him from people who are evil and violent. David appeals directly to God for protection from those who intend harm and act with aggression.

David, the writer, is speaking to God in a time of danger, likely facing threats from enemies who are both morally corrupt (“evil man”) and physically dangerous (“violent man”). The verse sets the tone for the whole psalm, showing David’s trust in God as his only real source of safety when surrounded by those who wish him harm.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 140:1

• LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name for God, emphasizing a direct and covenant relationship. David is not just praying to a generic deity, but to the God who has a history with Israel.
• evil (רַע, raʿ): This word often means more than just “bad”—it points to someone who is actively wicked or harmful, not just morally flawed.
• violent (חָמָס, ḥāmās): This word means someone who is cruel, unjust, or uses force to harm others. It highlights the physical danger David faces, not just moral opposition.
• preserve (נָצַר, nāṣar): This word carries the sense of guarding or keeping safe, like watching over something precious. David is asking for ongoing protection, not just a one-time rescue.

Why Psalms 140:1 matters

• The verse clarifies that David’s main concern is both moral and physical danger—he is not just worried about his reputation or comfort, but about real threats to his life and well-being.
• By using both “evil man” and “violent man,” the verse shows that David sees harm coming from both the intentions and the actions of his enemies.
• The verse introduces the theme of the entire psalm: seeking God’s help in the face of human threats, which is a recurring need in many people’s lives, not just David’s.