Psalms 58:6
Break their teeth, O God, in their mouth: break out the great teeth of the young lions, O LORD.
Psalms 58:6 · King James Version
Meaning
Psalm 58:6 is a verse that calls upon God to bring justice and deliverance to the psalmist who is facing enemies. The imagery used in this verse is metaphorical and vivid, illustrating the intensity of the psalmist's plea for God to protect him from his adversaries. The phrase "Break their teeth, O God, in their mouth" symbolizes a desire for God to silence the enemies and render them powerless. The mention of young lions with great teeth being broken out portrays the fierceness and strength of the adversaries that the psalmist is up against. By invoking God to break the teeth of the young lions, the psalmist is seeking divine intervention to overcome the threats and challenges posed by his enemies. This verse highlights the psalmist's trust in God's ability to provide protection and deliverance in times of trouble.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the psalmist calls upon God to break the teeth of their enemies, symbolizing a desire for their power and influence to be diminished. The imagery of breaking teeth, particularly the "great teeth of the young lions," represents a strong and forceful plea for God to defeat and disable those who seek to harm them. This act of God is seen as a way to protect the psalmist and their community from the threats posed by their adversaries. The request for divine intervention in this manner reflects the belief in God as a powerful protector and defender of His people. The psalmist seeks God's justice and deliverance through this vivid metaphor, demonstrating their faith in God's ability to overcome and triumph over their enemies. This verse highlights the trust and reliance on God's strength to combat any opposition and bring about victory for those who call upon Him.
Psalms 58:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
Break their teeth, O God, in their mouth: Break out the great teeth of the young lions, O Jehovah.
World English Bible
Break their teeth, God, in their mouth. Break out the great teeth of the young lions, Yahweh.
Douay-Rheims
Rise up thou to meet me, and behold: even thou, O Lord, the God of hosts, the God of Israel. Attend to visit all the nations: have no mercy on all them that work iniquity.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Breake their teeth, O God, in their mouthes: breake the iawes of the yong lions, O Lord.