Bible Teachers:What does Psalm chapter 141 mean?
Chapter Context
This is one of several psalms where David asks the Lord for protection against enemies (Psalm 3; 25; 57). No exact moment is tied to this song. David's strong emphasis here on being kept from sinning notable in the psalms. His attitude echoes the Bible's stance on godly advice (Proverbs 9:8; 19:25; 27:6) and the importance of taking correction from both God and earthly authorities (Psalm 94:12; Proverbs 14:11; Hebrews 12:7).
What does Psalm chapter 141 mean?
David hopes that his prayer will be pleasing to the Lord. In fact, David hopes that his sincere worship will please God as much as offerings of incense or sacrifice (Psalm 141:1–2).
As part of his devotion, David asks for God's help in avoiding sin and temptation (Psalm 143:1–2). Unwise words (James 3:2), internal temptation (James 1:14), the influence of ungodly people (Proverbs 13:20), and the lures of worldly pleasure (Proverbs 6:24–25; 23:6–7; 1 John 2:16) are moral threats. In humility, David asks the Lord for protection against those things, but also against himself (1 Corinthians 10:13), so that he will not fall to such temptations (Psalm 141:3–4).
David recognizes that the Lord's help comes in many ways, including suggestions from godly advisors (Proverbs 12:1; 13:18). Being corrected by a wise person (Proverbs 1:7) is a blessing. Rather than following the natural urge to ignore discipline (Hebrews 12:11), David wants to be open to the Lord's instructions (Psalm 141:5).
Verses 6 and 7 contain Hebrew phrasing which scholars find extremely difficult to translate. The literal words are plain. What's difficult is knowing if David is speaking about a future event, a common occurrence, or a past incident. Likewise, it's difficult to tell if some of the words are spoken by these "judges" or someone else. Most interpretations include the general idea of vindication. That is, that David expects that time will prove his message and faith to be accurate (Psalm 141:6–7).
Despite what may happen, David is confident. In faith, he asks to be spared from the schemes and traps of his enemies. Further, David hopes that those who conspire against him will suffer directly from their own sinful choices (Psalm 141:8–10).
