Psalms 140:8 (KJV)

What does Psalms 140:8 mean?

Psalms 140:8 is a prayer asking God not to let evil people succeed in their plans or get what they want, because if they do, they might become even more proud and harmful. The verse is a plea for God to stop the wicked from gaining power or advantage.

In this psalm, David is speaking to the LORD, asking for protection from those who plot evil against him. The verse shows David’s concern that if the desires and schemes of the wicked are allowed to succeed, they will feel justified and may become even bolder in their wrongdoing. The word "Selah" at the end signals a pause for reflection on this request.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 140:8

• "Grant" (נָתַן, natan): This word means "to give" or "to allow." David is specifically asking God not to give or allow the wicked what they want, emphasizing God’s control over outcomes.
• "Desires" (מַאֲוֶה, ma'aveh): This word refers to deep wishes or cravings. The focus is on the inner motives of the wicked, not just their actions.
• "Device" (זִמָּה, zimmah): This term often means a plan or scheme, usually with a negative or crafty sense. David is asking God not to let these harmful plans move forward.
• "Exalt" (רוּם, rum): This word means "to lift up" or "to become proud." The concern is that success would make the wicked arrogant, encouraging even more evil.

Why Psalms 140:8 matters

• Psalms 140:8 highlights the idea that unchecked success can lead to greater pride and harm, especially among those already set on doing wrong.
• The verse connects to the rest of the psalm, where David repeatedly asks for protection from evil people and their schemes, showing a pattern of seeking God’s intervention rather than taking matters into his own hands.
• By focusing on both the desires and the plans of the wicked, the verse reminds readers that God cares about motives as well as actions, and that prayer can address both.