Definition: Which imagine mischiefs in [their] heart; continually are they gathered together [for] war.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 140:2. It's a really powerful and unsettling statement about negativity and conflict. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: What it means literally: The verse translates to: “Which imagine mischiefs in [their] heart; continually are they gathered together for war.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Which imagine mischiefs in [their] heart” : This is the key part. "Their heart" refers to a person's thoughts and feelings. “Imagine mischiefs” means they’re actively thinking about bad, harmful, or destructive things. It suggests they’re harboring resentment, anger, or plans for conflict. “Continually are they gathered together for war” : This is the consequence of those imagined mischievous thoughts. "Gathered together" implies they're forming a group, a community, or a network around these negative ideas. “For war” means they’re actively working towards conflict – potentially with violence, arguments, or division. So, putting it all together: This verse describes someone who is constantly dwelling on negativity and plotting against others. They're not just thinking about bad things; they're actively building a situation where conflict can arise. It paints a picture of someone who is prone to anger, resentment, and a desire for something unpleasant. What does it tell us about people? Historically and psychologically, this verse speaks to: Negative Thinking: It highlights the power of negative thoughts to create problems. Conflict Potential: It suggests a predisposition towards conflict due to unresolved issues or bad impulses. Need for Healing: It can be a call for individuals to seek forgiveness, reconciliation, and emotional healing to break free from these destructive patterns. Important Note: This verse doesn't necessarily mean everyone who thinks negatively is prone to violence. It’s more about the potential for negativity to build into something harmful. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to real-life situations? Explore another Bible passage that deals with conflict or negative thoughts?