Book of Psalms - Chapter 140 - Verse 9

This verse can be found in the book of Psalms in the Old Testament of the Bible. In this particular verse, the speaker is expressing a desire for the consequences of the actions of their enemies to return back to them. Essentially, if those who are surrounding the speaker with harm and negativity are speaking ill of them, the speaker wishes for those negative intentions to come back and cause harm to those individuals instead. This verse reflects a sense of justice and karma, suggesting that the harm one wishes upon others may in fact come back to impact them. It speaks to the idea of reaping what one sows, and serves as a reminder to be mindful of the words and intentions we put out into the world. Overall, this verse can be seen as a call for accountability and a recognition of the power of words and intentions on the lives of ourselves and others.

One theological interpretation of this verse revolves around the concept of divine justice and retribution. The psalmist, in lamenting the actions of those who surround and seek to harm him, calls upon God to allow these individuals to suffer the consequences of their own deceitful words. This highlights the idea that God is ultimately in control and will bring about justice in due time. The use of the word "mischief" in this context refers to the harm or trouble that the wicked intend to cause, and the psalmist prays that this harm will be turned back upon them. Through this interpretation, believers are encouraged to trust in God's righteousness and sovereignty, knowing that He will ultimately vindicate his people and hold evildoers accountable for their actions.