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For Jeduthun. A psalm of David. I said, &#8220I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth while in the presence of the wicked.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/psalms/39.htm">New Living Translation</a> I said to myself, “I will watch what I do and not sin in what I say. I will hold my tongue when the ungodly are around me.” <a href="/esv/psalms/39.htm">English Standard Version</a> I said, “I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle, so long as the wicked are in my presence.” <a href="/bsb/psalms/39.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For the choirmaster. For Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, “I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present.” <a href="/kjv/psalms/39.htm">King James Bible</a> To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. <a href="/nkjv/psalms/39.htm">New King James Version</a> To the Chief Musician. To Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, “I will guard my ways, Lest I sin with my tongue; I will restrain my mouth with a muzzle, While the wicked are before me.” <a href="/nasb_/psalms/39.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For the music director, for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, “I will keep watch over my ways So that I do not sin with my tongue; I will keep watch over my mouth as with a muzzle While the wicked are in my presence.” <a href="/nasb/psalms/39.htm">NASB 1995</a> For the choir director, for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, &#8220I will guard my ways That I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle While the wicked are in my presence.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/psalms/39.htm">NASB 1977 </a> I Said, “I will guard my ways, That I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle, While the wicked are in my presence.” <a href="/lsb/psalms/39.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For the choir director. For Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, “I will keep watch over my ways That I may not sin with my tongue; I will keep watch over my mouth as with a muzzle While the wicked are in my presence.” <a href="/amp/psalms/39.htm">Amplified Bible</a> To the Chief Musician; for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, “I will guard my ways That I may not sin with my tongue; I will muzzle my mouth While the wicked are in my presence.” <a href="/csb/psalms/39.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For the choir director, for Jeduthun. A psalm of David. I said, “I will guard my ways so that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are in my presence.” <a href="/hcsb/psalms/39.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For the choir director, for Jeduthun. A Davidic psalm. I said, &#8220I will guard my ways so that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are in my presence.&#8221 <a href="/asv/psalms/39.htm">American Standard Version</a> For the Chief Musician, for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, That I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, While the wicked is before me. <a href="/cev/psalms/39.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I told myself, "I'll be careful not to sin by what I say, and I'll muzzle my mouth when evil people are near." <a href="/erv/psalms/39.htm">English Revised Version</a> For the Chief Musician, for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. <a href="/gwt/psalms/39.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> [For the choir director; for Jeduthun; a psalm by David.] I said, "I will watch my ways so that I do not sin with my tongue. I will bridle my mouth while wicked people are in my presence." <a href="/gnt/psalms/39.htm">Good News Translation</a> I said, "I will be careful about what I do and will not let my tongue make me sin; I will not say anything while evil people are near." <a href="/isv/psalms/39.htm">International Standard Version</a> I told myself, "I will keep watch over my tongue to keep from sinning. I will muzzle my mouth when the wicked are around." <a href="/msb/psalms/39.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For the choirmaster. For Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, ?I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present.? <a href="/net/psalms/39.htm">NET Bible</a> For the music director, Jeduthun; a psalm of David. I decided, "I will watch what I say and make sure I do not sin with my tongue. I will put a muzzle over my mouth while in the presence of an evil man." <a href="/nheb/psalms/39.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> [For the Chief Musician. For Jeduthun. A Psalm by David.] I said, "I will watch my ways, so that I do not sin with my tongue. I will keep my mouth with a bridle while the wicked is before me." <a href="/wbt/psalms/39.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. <a href="/web/psalms/39.htm">World English Bible</a> For the Chief Musician. For Jeduthun. A Psalm by David. I said, “I will watch my ways, so that I don’t sin with my tongue. I will keep my mouth with a bridle while the wicked is before me.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/psalms/39.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> TO THE OVERSEER. FOR JEDUTHUN. A PSALM OF DAVID. I have said, “I observe my ways, "" Against sinning with my tongue, "" I keep a curb for my mouth, "" While the wicked [is] before me.” <a href="/ylt/psalms/39.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> To the Overseer, to Jeduthun. -- A Psalm of David. I have said, 'I observe my ways, Against sinning with my tongue, I keep for my mouth a curb, while the wicked is before me.' <a href="/slt/psalms/39.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> To the overseer, to Jeduthun: chanting of David. I said, I will watch my way from sinning with my tongue: I will watch for my mouth with a muzzle while yet the unjust one is before me.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/psalms/39.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Unto the end, for Idithun himself, a canticle of David. I said: I will take heed to my ways : that I sin not with my tongue. I have set guard to my mouth, when the sinner stood against me. <a href="/cpdv/psalms/39.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> <V 38:1>Unto the end. For Jeduthun himself. A Canticle of David. <V 38:2>I said, “I will keep to my ways, so that I will not offend with my tongue.” I posted a guard at my mouth, when a sinner took up a position against me. <a href="/nabre/psalms/39.htm">New American Bible</a> For the leader, for Jeduthun. A psalm of David. [2] I said, “I will watch my ways, lest I sin with my tongue; I will keep a muzzle on my mouth.” <a href="/nrsvce/psalms/39.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> I said, “I will guard my ways that I may not sin with my tongue; I will keep a muzzle on my mouth as long as the wicked are in my presence.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/psalms/39.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> I SAID, I will take heed to my ways that I sin not with my tongue; I will keep the words of my mouth under control while the wicked is before me. <a href="/hpbt/psalms/39.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> I have said that I would keep my way and that I would not sin with my tongue. I shall keep my mouth from evil because of the wicked who are before me.<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/psalms/39.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> For the Leader, for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said: 'I will take heed to my ways, That I sin not with my tongue; I will keep a curb upon my mouth, While the wicked is before me.' <a href="/sep/psalms/39.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> For the end, a Song of David, to Idithun. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I set a guard on my mouth, while the sinner stood in my presence. <a href="/parallel/psalms/39-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=4544" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/psalms/39.htm">I Will Watch My Ways</a> 1<a href="/hebrew/5329.htm" title="5329: lam·naṣ·ṣê·aḥ (Prep-l, Art:: V-Piel-Prtcpl-ms) -- Preeminent or enduring. A primitive root; properly, to glitter from afar, i.e. To be eminent; also, to be permanent.">For the choirmaster.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3038.htm" title="3038: lī·ḏī·ṯūn (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Leader of a choir of the temple. Or Yduthuwn; or Ydiythuwn; probably from yadah; laudatory; Jeduthun, an Israelite.">For Jeduthun.</a> <a href="/hebrew/4210.htm" title="4210: miz·mō·wr (N-ms) -- A melody. From zamar; properly, instrumental music; by implication, a poem set to notes.">A Psalm</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: lə·ḏā·wiḏ (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">of David.</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: ’ā·mar·tî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say."> I said,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: ’eš·mə·rāh (V-Qal-Imperf.Cohort-1cs) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">“I will watch</a> <a href="/hebrew/1870.htm" title="1870: ḏə·rā·ḵay (N-cpc:: 1cs) -- Way, road, distance, journey, manner. From darak; a road; figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb.">my ways</a> <a href="/hebrew/2398.htm" title="2398: mê·ḥă·ṭō·w (Prep-m:: V-Qal-Inf) -- A primitive root; properly, to miss; hence to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, lead astray, condemn.">so that I will not sin</a> <a href="/hebrew/3956.htm" title="3956: ḇil·šō·w·nî (Prep-b:: N-csc:: 1cs) -- Tongue. Or lashon; also feminine lshonah; from lashan; the tongue, used literally, and figuratively.">with my tongue;</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: ’eš·mə·rāh (V-Qal-Imperf.Cohort-1cs) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">I will guard</a> <a href="/hebrew/6310.htm" title="6310: lə·p̄î (Prep-l:: N-msc:: 1cs) -- Mouth. From pa'ah; the mouth, whether literal or figurative; specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially according to.">my mouth</a> <a href="/hebrew/4269.htm" title="4269: maḥ·sō·wm (N-ms) -- A muzzle. From chacam; a muzzle.">with a muzzle</a> <a href="/hebrew/5750.htm" title="5750: bə·‘ōḏ (Prep-b:: Adv) -- Or rod; from uwd; properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially, again, repeatedly, still, more.">as</a> <a href="/hebrew/7563.htm" title="7563: rā·šā‘ (Adj-ms) -- Wicked, criminal. From rasha'; morally wrong; concretely, an bad person.">long as the wicked</a> <a href="/hebrew/5048.htm" title="5048: lə·neḡ·dî (Prep-l:: 1cs) -- From nagad; a front, i.e. Part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually over against or before.">are present.”</a> 2I was speechless and still; I remained silent, even from speaking good, and my sorrow was stirred.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2-10</a> We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body. / When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal. / Consider ships as well. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot is inclined. ... <a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a> He who guards his mouth protects his life, but the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin. <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Ephesians 4:29</a> Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen. <a href="/proverbs/21-23.htm">Proverbs 21:23</a> He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress. <a href="/matthew/12-36.htm">Matthew 12:36-37</a> But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. / For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” <a href="/james/1-26.htm">James 1:26</a> If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless. <a href="/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19</a> When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise. <a href="/colossians/4-6.htm">Colossians 4:6</a> Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. <a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">1 Peter 3:10</a> For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. <a href="/proverbs/15-1.htm">Proverbs 15:1</a> A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:2</a> Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. For God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few. <a href="/psalms/141-3.htm">Psalm 141:3</a> Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips. <a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Proverbs 17:27-28</a> A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. / Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue. <a href="/matthew/5-37.htm">Matthew 5:37</a> Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ Anything more comes from the evil one. <a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a> Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.A.<a href="/1_chronicles/6-44.htm">1 Chronicles 6:44</a> And their brethren the sons of Merari stood on the left hand: Ethan the son of Kishi, the son of Abdi, the son of Malluch,<a href="/psalms/62-1.htm">Psalm 62:1</a> To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation.<a href="/psalms/77-1.htm">Psalm 77:1</a> To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of Asaph. I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me.<a href="/1_chronicles/16-41.htm">1 Chronicles 16:41</a> And with them Heman and Jeduthun, and the rest that were chosen, who were expressed by name, to give thanks to the LORD, because his mercy endureth for ever;I said<a href="/psalms/119-9.htm">Psalm 119:9</a> BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.<a href="/1_kings/2-4.htm">1 Kings 2:4</a> That the LORD may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel.<a href="/2_kings/10-31.htm">2 Kings 10:31</a> But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the LORD God of Israel with all his heart: for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin.that I<a href="/psalms/12-4.htm">Psalm 12:4</a> Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us?<a href="/psalms/73-8.htm">Psalm 73:8,9</a> They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily… <a href="/psalms/141-3.htm">Psalm 141:3</a> Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.my mouth [heb.<a href="/james/1-26.htm">James 1:26</a> If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.<a href="/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2-8</a> For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body… while<a href="/amos/5-13.htm">Amos 5:13</a> Therefore the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it is an evil time.<a href="/micah/7-5.htm">Micah 7:5,6</a> Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom… <a href="/colossians/4-5.htm">Colossians 4:5</a> Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/37-37.htm">Attention</a> <a href="/psalms/32-9.htm">Bridle</a> <a href="/psalms/38-22.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/psalms/36-1.htm">Choirmaster</a> <a href="/job/9-33.htm">Control</a> <a href="/psalms/38-22.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/36-1.htm">Director</a> <a href="/psalms/25-20.htm">Guard</a> <a href="/psalms/31-7.htm">Heed</a> <a href="/psalms/38-22.htm">Jeduthun</a> <a href="/psalms/36-1.htm">Leader</a> <a href="/psalms/38-14.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/psalms/38-22.htm">Musician</a> <a href="/psalms/36-1.htm">Music-Maker</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/25-4.htm">Muzzle</a> <a href="/psalms/31-20.htm">Presence</a> <a href="/psalms/38-22.htm">Psalm</a> <a href="/psalms/38-18.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/psalms/37-21.htm">Sinner</a> <a href="/psalms/37-30.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/psalms/33-14.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/psalms/37-14.htm">Ways</a> <a href="/psalms/37-40.htm">Wicked</a> <a href="/psalms/37-1.htm">Wrong</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/39-12.htm">Attention</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-3.htm">Bridle</a> <a href="/psalms/39-13.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/psalms/40-1.htm">Choirmaster</a> <a href="/psalms/83-2.htm">Control</a> <a href="/psalms/39-13.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/40-1.htm">Director</a> <a href="/psalms/86-2.htm">Guard</a> <a href="/psalms/55-2.htm">Heed</a> <a href="/psalms/62-1.htm">Jeduthun</a> <a href="/psalms/40-1.htm">Leader</a> <a href="/psalms/39-9.htm">Mouth</a> <a href="/psalms/39-13.htm">Musician</a> <a href="/psalms/40-1.htm">Music-Maker</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-9.htm">Muzzle</a> <a href="/psalms/41-12.htm">Presence</a> <a href="/psalms/39-13.htm">Psalm</a> <a href="/psalms/39-11.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/psalms/50-16.htm">Sinner</a> <a href="/psalms/39-3.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/psalms/56-6.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/psalms/50-23.htm">Ways</a> <a href="/psalms/41-8.htm">Wicked</a> <a href="/psalms/51-4.htm">Wrong</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 39</div>1. <a href="/psalms/39-1.htm">David's care of his thoughts</a> 4. <a href="/psalms/39-4.htm">The consideration of the brevity and vanity of life</a> 7. <a href="/psalms/39-7.htm">the reverence of God's judgments</a> 10. <a href="/psalms/39-10.htm">and prayer, are his bridles of impatience</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/39.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/39.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For the choirmaster. This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was to be directed by the choirmaster, a leader of music in the temple. The role of the choirmaster was significant in ancient Israelite worship, as music was a central part of their religious expression. The choirmaster would ensure that the psalm was performed correctly, maintaining the spiritual and liturgical integrity of the service.For Jeduthun. Jeduthun was one of the chief musicians appointed by King David, as mentioned in <a href="/1_chronicles/16-41.htm">1 Chronicles 16:41-42</a> and <a href="/1_chronicles/25.htm">1 Chronicles 25:1-3</a>. He was a Levite and played a significant role in the musical worship of Israel. This reference suggests that the psalm was either composed for or by Jeduthun, or that it was to be performed in a style associated with him.A Psalm of David. David, the second king of Israel, is traditionally credited with writing many of the psalms. His life experiences, including his time as a shepherd, warrior, and king, deeply influenced his writings. This psalm reflects David's personal struggles and his desire for righteousness, offering insight into his relationship with God.I said, “I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; David's commitment to watching his ways highlights the importance of self-discipline and vigilance in the life of a believer. The tongue is often seen as a source of sin, as echoed in <a href="/james/3-5.htm">James 3:5-10</a>, where the tongue is described as a small part of the body that can cause great harm. This phrase underscores the need for careful speech and the avoidance of sin through words.I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present.” The imagery of a muzzle suggests a strong restraint, indicating the seriousness with which David approaches the control of his speech. The presence of the wicked implies a context of temptation or provocation, where careless words could lead to sin or give the wicked an opportunity to blaspheme God. This reflects the biblical principle of being wise and cautious in the presence of those who do not share the same values, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a> and <a href="/matthew/10-16.htm">Matthew 10:16</a>.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> The author of this psalm, King David, is expressing a personal commitment to self-control, particularly in speech. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_wicked.htm">The Wicked</a> This refers to those who are unrighteous or morally wrong, whose presence prompts David to be cautious with his words. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_tongue.htm">The Tongue</a> Symbolic of speech and communication, the tongue is a focal point for self-discipline in this verse. 4. <a href="/topical/m/muzzle.htm">Muzzle</a> A metaphor for restraint, indicating the need for control over one's speech. 5. <a href="/topical/w/ways.htm">Ways</a> This term refers to one's conduct or behavior, emphasizing the importance of living righteously.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_words.htm">The Power of Words</a> Our words have the power to build up or tear down. Like David, we should be intentional about speaking life and truth. <a href="/topical/s/self-control_in_speech.htm">Self-Control in Speech</a> Practicing self-control, especially in the presence of those who may provoke us, is a mark of spiritual maturity. <a href="/topical/a/awareness_of_influence.htm">Awareness of Influence</a> Recognize the influence of those around us. The presence of the wicked should prompt us to be even more vigilant in our conduct. <a href="/topical/g/guarding_against_sin.htm">Guarding Against Sin</a> Sin can easily enter through careless words. We must be proactive in setting boundaries for our speech. <a href="/topical/l/living_with_integrity.htm">Living with Integrity</a> Our commitment to righteousness should be evident in our speech, reflecting our inner devotion to God.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_39.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 39</a> <a href="/q/psalm_39__does_it_conflict_with_human_purpose.htm">Psalm 39 – Does this portrayal of life’s futility conflict with other Bible passages affirming human purpose and value?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_god_desire.htm">What does God desire?</a> <a href="/q/how_do_words_shape_thoughts_actions.htm">How do words influence thoughts and actions?</a> <a href="/q/what_musical_terms_are_used_in_psalms.htm">What musical terms are used in Psalms?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/39.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(1) My tongue.--To enter into the feeling of the poet we must remember the unrestrained way in which Orientals give way to grief. It was natural and becoming for him to "roar" (<a href="/psalms/38-8.htm" title="I am feeble and sore broken: I have roared by reason of the disquietness of my heart.">Psalm 38:8</a>, &c.) out his indignation or his grief, to mutter (<a href="/psalms/1-2.htm" title="But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law does he meditate day and night.">Psalm 1:2</a>, &c) aloud his prayers, to speak out on every impulse. Now he determines to endure in silence and mutely bear the worst, rather than speak what may in the eyes of the impious be construed into a murmur against Divine Providence, into impatience under the Divine decree. (Comp. <a href="/context/psalms/38-13.htm" title="But I, as a deaf man, heard not; and I was as a dumb man that opens not his mouth.">Psalm 38:13-14</a>.)With a bridle.--See margin, and comp. <a href="/deuteronomy/25-4.htm" title="You shall not muzzle the ox when he treads out the corn.">Deuteronomy 25:4</a>, where the cognate verb occurs. The root-meaning is "stop." For the metaphor comp. <a href="/james/1-26.htm" title="If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridles not his tongue, but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is vain.">James 1:26</a>, and Plato, Laws, 3:701, "the argument, like a horse, ought to be pulled up from time to time, and not be allowed to run away, but held with bit and bridle." (Comp. also Virgil, 'neid, vi. 79.) . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/39.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 1. - I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue. There are no grounds for connecting this silence with the abstinence from self-vindication mentioned in the preceding psalm (vers. 13, 14). Indeed, it seems to have had a wholly different origin (see the introductory paragraph). I will keep my mouth with a bridle; i.e. "curb my impatience, restrain and keep in my speech." While the wicked is before me. The Prayer-book Version is better, if less literal, "While the ungodly is in my sight." <a href="/commentaries/psalms/39-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>For the choirmaster. לַמְנַצֵּ֥חַ (lam·naṣ·ṣê·aḥ) Preposition-l, Article | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5329.htm">Strong's 5329: </a> To glitter from afar, to be eminent, to be permanent For Jeduthun. לִֽידוּת֗וּן (lî·ḏū·ṯūn) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3038.htm">Strong's 3038: </a> Jeduthun A Psalm מִזְמ֥וֹר (miz·mō·wr) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4210.htm">Strong's 4210: </a> Instrumental music, a poem set to notes of David. לְדָוִֽד׃ (lə·ḏā·wiḏ) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse I said, אָמַ֗רְתִּי (’ā·mar·tî) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say “I will watch אֶֽשְׁמְרָ֣ה (’eš·mə·rāh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to my ways דְרָכַי֮ (ḏə·rā·ḵay) Noun - common plural construct | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1870.htm">Strong's 1870: </a> A road, a course of life, mode of action so that I will not sin מֵחֲט֪וֹא (mê·ḥă·ṭō·w) Preposition-m | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2398.htm">Strong's 2398: </a> To miss, to sin, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, lead astray, condemn with my tongue; בִלְשׁ֫וֹנִ֥י (ḇil·šō·w·nî) Preposition-b | Noun - common singular construct | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3956.htm">Strong's 3956: </a> The tongue I will guard אֶשְׁמְרָ֥ה (’eš·mə·rāh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to my mouth לְפִ֥י (lə·p̄î) Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6310.htm">Strong's 6310: </a> The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to with a muzzle מַחְס֑וֹם (maḥ·sō·wm) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4269.htm">Strong's 4269: </a> A muzzle as בְּעֹ֖ד (bə·‘ōḏ) Preposition-b | Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5704.htm">Strong's 5704: </a> As far as, even to, up to, until, while long as the wicked רָשָׁ֣ע (rā·šā‘) Adjective - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7563.htm">Strong's 7563: </a> Wrong, an, bad person are present.” לְנֶגְדִּֽי׃ (lə·neḡ·dî) Preposition-l | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5048.htm">Strong's 5048: </a> A front, part opposite, a counterpart, mate, over against, before <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/psalms/39-1.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 39:1 For the Chief Musician (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/38-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 38:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 38:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/39-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 39:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 39:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>