Definition: Their poison [is] like the poison of a serpent: [they are] like the deaf adder [that] stoppeth her ear;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and somewhat poetic verse from Psalm 58:4. It's a really striking image! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a situation where someone is being deliberately harmed or poisoned by their enemies. The imagery is very powerful. Let’s unpack the parts: “Their poison is like the poison of a serpent…” – Think of a snake! Snakes are known for their venomous bites. This suggests that the "poison" isn't physical, but rather something subtle and damaging. It’s not a straightforward attack; it’s a slow, persistent harm. “…they are like the deaf adder…” – The deaf adder is a very dangerous snake known for its venomous bite. This reinforces the idea of something that’s causing pain and disruption. “…that stoppeth her ear?” - This is the key part! The adder stops someone's hearing. It’s not trying to kill them outright, but it prevents them from understanding, from seeing clearly, from listening to truth. It’s a form of obstruction and silence. So, putting it all together: The verse says that the things that harm or attack someone are like a poisonous snake – they're subtle, insidious, and actively prevent understanding and clear thinking. They aren’t aggressive, but they’re consistently damaging. Overall Meaning & Context: Psalm 58 is a prayer for strength and resilience in the face of adversity. It speaks to feeling overwhelmed by negativity and suggests that God is providing us with a way to resist these attacks through His grace and wisdom. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful enemies aren’t physical; they are those who try to silence our minds and prevent us from seeing the truth. Why it's significant: This verse has been interpreted as a timeless warning against gossip, slander, and any kind of deliberate obstruction of truth or understanding. It speaks to the importance of protecting our minds and seeking clarity of thought. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning in a specific context (like its use in the Psalms)?