Psalm 64 2

Psalm 64:2 kjv

Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity:

Psalm 64:2 nkjv

Hide me from the secret plots of the wicked, From the rebellion of the workers of iniquity,

Psalm 64:2 niv

Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, from the plots of evildoers.

Psalm 64:2 esv

Hide me from the secret plots of the wicked, from the throng of evildoers,

Psalm 64:2 nlt

Hide me from the plots of this evil mob,
from this gang of wrongdoers.

Psalm 64 verses

Psalm 64 2 Meaning

Psalm 64:2 is a heartfelt plea to God, uttered by David, who seeks urgent protection and divine intervention against wicked enemies. It articulates a cry for God to hear his voice and preserve his life from the overwhelming dread caused by adversaries and their malicious schemes. The verse emphasizes the immediate and personal nature of the danger, highlighting the psalmist's vulnerability and his sole reliance on God as his refuge against terror and hostility.

Psalm 64 2 Context

Psalm 64 is a lament psalm attributed to David, likely written during a period of intense persecution by those who were subtly and secretly plotting against him. The preceding verses of the broader Psalm collection frequently touch on themes of trust in God amid adversity. In this chapter, David is deeply troubled by hidden conspiracies and the deceptive malice of his enemies. Verse 2 is the initial desperate plea that sets the tone for the entire psalm, which then proceeds to describe the nature of these hidden attacks, the evil intentions of the adversaries, and ends with an affirmation of God's justice and ultimate triumph over the wicked. The immediate historical context often points to instances in David's life where he faced treacherous enemies, such as Absalom's conspiracy or Saul's relentless pursuit, where plots were devised in secret.

Psalm 64 2 Word analysis

• Hear (שְׁמַע, shĕma‘): A foundational Hebrew verb implying not merely perception of sound but active attention, understanding, and often, an obedient response. When directed to God, it means "pay attention to," "listen and act upon." It underscores the psalmist's desire for God to not just be aware of his plea but to intervene on his behalf.
• My voice (קוֹלִי, qolî): Literally "my sound" or "my voice." It signifies the audible expression of distress and supplication, indicating a direct, earnest appeal to God. It highlights the psalmist's personal and urgent cry.
• O God (אֱלֹהִים, ʼĚlōhîm): A plural noun for God, often implying His majesty and sovereign power, but also referring to Him as the divine judge and creator. Addressing God as Elohim emphasizes His authority and ability to deliver in the face of grave danger.
• Preserve (תִּשְׁמֹר, tishmor): From the root שָׁמַר (shamar), meaning "to guard," "to keep," "to watch over." It signifies protection, security, and careful safekeeping from harm. David seeks divine custody and safeguarding of his very life.
• My life (נַפְשִׁי, naphshî): Refers to his "soul," "self," or "very being." It signifies the totality of his existence, indicating a comprehensive threat to his well-being. The plea is for ultimate preservation, not just from physical harm, but from existential dread.
• From the terror (מִפַּחַד, mi-pachaḍ): From the root פָּחַד (pachaḍ), meaning "dread," "terror," or "fear." This word powerfully conveys the overwhelming sense of panic and intimidation induced by his enemies. It suggests a paralyzing fear.
• Of the enemy (אֹיֵב, oyēḇ): Refers to an adversary, foe, or hater. This is a generic term, implying that the specific identity is less important than the hostile intent and the real threat they pose.

Words-group analysis

• "Hear my voice, O God": This opening phrase is a direct, urgent invocation of God, a common psalmic address that establishes immediate divine dependence. It underlines the intimate relationship between the psalmist and his God, whom he expects to listen and act.
• "Preserve my life from the terror of the enemy": This is the core request, encapsulating the deep fear and the urgent need for divine intervention. The "terror" suggests psychological warfare and profound emotional distress, not just physical danger. It reveals that the enemy's aim is to instill fear and paralyze, making the request for preservation comprehensive – physical, emotional, and spiritual. It also hints at the psalmist's awareness of God as the sole ultimate Protector, who can rescue from overwhelming dread.

Psalm 64 2 Bonus section

• The prayer in Psalm 64:2 acknowledges that some attacks are subtle, hidden, and fear-inducing, requiring divine revelation and protection beyond human foresight. This suggests God’s ability to counter secret conspiracies.
• The emphasis on "terror" highlights the psychological dimension of spiritual warfare, where fear can be as debilitating as physical harm. True peace, therefore, comes from God's protection.
• The absence of specific names for the enemy broadens the application of the psalm, making it relatable to anyone facing various forms of unseen opposition, slander, or malicious plotting in their life.
• The very act of voicing the prayer despite the terror indicates an act of faith – choosing to turn to God rather than succumbing to despair or seeking vengeance on one's own terms.

Psalm 64 2 Commentary

Psalm 64:2 is a cry for refuge when evil feels overwhelming and unseen. David, under intense pressure from deceptive and malicious adversaries, turns directly to God. The immediate sense of urgency is palpable in his plea to "Hear my voice," signifying not merely a call but a desperate longing for attentive divine intervention. The peril is not just physical attack but a profound psychological "terror" instilled by an unnamed yet deeply feared "enemy." This dread impacts his "life" (his entire being), compelling him to seek divine "preservation." This verse fundamentally highlights human vulnerability against the unseen plots of wickedness and positions God as the only true source of secure refuge and deliverance from overwhelming fear. It encourages believers to articulate their deepest fears and depend completely on the One who alone can rescue them from hidden dangers and inner turmoil caused by adversity.