Psalms 55:9 Meaning and Explanation
“Destroy, O Lord, and divide their tongues: for I have seen violence and strife in the city.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist calls on God to judge the wicked by scattering their communication and power.
The Context of Psalms 55:9
The psalm turns from escape fantasy to direct petition for divine intervention.
What Does Psalms 55:9 Mean?
The shift from fantasy to prayer marks a turning point: unable to escape, the psalmist calls upon God to act. Dividing tongues (like the Tower of Babel) is a divine act of judgment that breaks the unity and power of those working against him.
The reason for the prayer is personal observation: the psalmist has witnessed violence and strife, making this plea grounded in real evidence of disorder and injustice in his community.
Psalms 55:9 in the Original Language
lashon (לָשׁוֹן), 'tongues' — speech and language, representing the instrument of communication and power.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 55:9
What does Psalms 55:9 mean?
The psalmist calls on God to judge the wicked by scattering their communication and power.
What is the context of Psalms 55:9?
The psalm turns from escape fantasy to direct petition for divine intervention.