Psalms 58:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The wicked are compared to venomous serpents, particularly those that refuse to listen.
The Context of Psalms 58:4
The metaphor of serpents illustrates both the danger posed by the wicked and their stubborn resistance to change.
What Does Psalms 58:4 Mean?
The comparison to poison-bearing serpents depicts how the wicked spread harm. A serpent's venom is injected deliberately; similarly, wicked speech and actions are instruments of harm. The image conveys danger emanating from within, not external force.
The deaf adder that stops her ear represents willful refusal to hear. This adder will not respond to charming—not from inability but from obstinate unwillingness. The wicked similarly refuse to hear correction, warnings, or appeals to justice.
Psalms 58:4 in the Original Language
'Adder' (Hebrew: pethen, פֶּתֶן) was understood as a particularly dangerous snake; the image emphasizes venom and unpredictability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 58:4
What does Psalms 58:4 mean?
The wicked are compared to venomous serpents, particularly those that refuse to listen.
What is the context of Psalms 58:4?
The metaphor of serpents illustrates both the danger posed by the wicked and their stubborn resistance to change.