Psalm 140:10

ESV Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into fire, into miry pits, no more to rise!

NIV May burning coals fall on them; may they be thrown into the fire, into miry pits, never to rise.

NASB May burning coals fall upon them; May they be cast into the fire, Into bottomless pits from which they cannot rise.

CSB Let hot coals fall on them. Let them be thrown into the fire, into the abyss, never again to rise.

NLT Let burning coals fall down on their heads. Let them be thrown into the fire or into watery pits from which they can’t escape.

KJV Let burning coals fall upon them: let them be cast into the fire; into deep pits, that they rise not up again.

NKJV Let burning coals fall upon them; Let them be cast into the fire, Into deep pits, that they rise not up again.

What does Psalm 140:10 mean?

Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 140; verse-level content coming soon!

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Context Summary
Psalm 140:9–11 contains direct requests that the Lord would harm or punish enemies. These "imprecations" are appeals to God, not vows, or plans for David to act himself. Part of his wish is that the wicked will suffer the same fate they seem to plan for David (Psalm 140:8). He hopes for their death and defeat, hoping that harm will come to these bloodthirsty ones before they gain power.

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Chapter Summary
David prays for rescue from wicked and bloodthirsty enemies. He suggests violent conspiracies and traps, including false words. These enemies are plotting for his death, so he asks God for protection. This prayer comes with confidence that the Lord will grant David's request. David also asks the Lord to judge these evil opponents: to make them suffer defeat and death. This is also expressed with confidence that God will do what is right and care for the weak.

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