Definition: [The words] of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war [was] in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet [were] they drawn swords.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Psalm 55:21. It’s a really interesting and complex verse that speaks to a tricky situation of anger and conflict within someone. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: At its core, the verse describes someone who is deeply angry and has a lot of negative thoughts. Let's unpack each part: “The words of his mouth were smoother than butter…” - This suggests that his anger wasn’t just a general feeling of being upset. His words themselves were carefully crafted, gentle, and pleasant. Think of it like someone trying to soothe you with honey – they're not harsh or aggressive. "...but war [was] in his heart:" - This is the crucial part. The verse says that this anger wasn’t just expressing himself; it was actively fighting . There was a battle raging within him, a desire to lash out and cause harm. It's like a storm brewing inside him. "His words were softer than oil..." – This is a powerful comparison. Oil is traditionally used for protection and comfort – think of candles or olive oil. Soft oil is gentle and soothing. These words were softer than the harshness of his anger, offering a sense of peace and calm. "...yet [were] they drawn swords." - This is where it gets really significant. The verse warns that these "soft words" weren't just comforting; they were actively attacking and threatening. They weren’t just gentle; they were designed to harm, to hurt, and to cause conflict. It suggests a destructive intention. So, putting it all together: The person is experiencing intense anger and has been using words that are deliberately hurtful and dangerous. They're trying to inflict pain but their intentions are malicious. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the danger of unchecked anger. It’s about the importance of controlling your emotions, especially when they become destructive. The verse suggests that while gentle words can be soothing, a heart filled with rage can lead to harmful actions. Important Note: It's important to remember this is metaphorical. The "sword" represents violence or harm – it’s not necessarily about physical violence, but the potential for causing pain and damage. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Connect it to a specific situation (like a conflict in a story)?