Some translations reflect the beginning of this verse in such a way that the tongue of David’s enemies is sharp. But the original text says it is more active: they sharpen their tongue.
Because as a serpent’s
is added, our thoughts go to the attack of a poisonous snake. But a human tongue can also cause much damage (see James 3:5–9). In Psalm 5:9 David mentions that the enemies can flatter with their tongue.
It means they can speak evil or do the opposite: flatter. Paul uses this manner of speech in Romans 3 to show the true nature of men. In Romans 3:13 he quotes Psalm 5 and ends with the negative qualification of the tongue. He then follows with a quote from this Psalm: the venom of asps is under their lips.
People are like snakes. In Romans 3, Paul writes that men are corrupt (all have turned aside
); men have been tempted by the serpent.
Fortunately, Romans 3 does not end with this; there is redemption in Jesus Christ. He is God’s gracious gift to mankind, who were bitten and poisoned by the serpent. In the meantime, we often notice in our own lives how serious the poison of words can penetrate relationships, our thoughts, our ideas. We should consider the serious danger of gossip and fake news.
3 They make their tongue sharp as a serpent’s, and under their lips is the venom of asps. Selah