The term "plotteth" is an archaic form of the verb "plot," which means to scheme or devise a plan, often with negative or deceitful intentions. In the context of the Bible, "plotteth" is used to describe the actions of individuals or groups who scheme against others, often in opposition to God's will or righteous living. The concept of plotting is frequently associated with wickedness, deceit, and the machinations of the ungodly.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Psalms and Proverbs: The Psalms and Proverbs frequently address the theme of plotting, particularly in the context of the wicked devising plans against the righteous. For example, Psalm 37:12 states, "The wicked scheme against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them." This verse highlights the antagonistic nature of the wicked, who actively seek to harm those who follow God's ways.

2. The Wicked and Their Schemes: The Bible often contrasts the plans of the wicked with the protection and justice provided by God. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things that the Lord hates, including "a heart that devises wicked schemes." This passage underscores the moral repugnance of plotting evil and the divine disapproval it incurs.

3. Divine Justice: Despite the schemes of the wicked, the Bible assures believers of God's ultimate justice and protection. Psalm 21:11 declares, "Though they intend You harm, the schemes they devise will not prevail." This assurance is a recurring theme, emphasizing that while the wicked may plot, their plans are ultimately futile against the sovereignty of God.

4. Historical Examples: Throughout biblical history, there are numerous examples of individuals who plotted against God's people or His anointed leaders. One notable instance is the conspiracy against Daniel by the administrators and satraps, as recorded in Daniel 6. Despite their plotting, God delivered Daniel from the lions' den, demonstrating His power to thwart the plans of the wicked.

5. Moral and Spiritual Implications: The act of plotting is often associated with a heart that is turned away from God. It reflects a reliance on human cunning rather than divine wisdom. Believers are called to trust in the Lord and seek His guidance rather than resorting to deceitful schemes. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Theological Significance

The concept of plotting in the Bible serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle between good and evil. It highlights the reality of sin and the human propensity to devise plans that are contrary to God's will. However, it also reassures believers of God's omnipotence and His ability to protect and deliver His people from the schemes of the wicked. The call to righteousness and trust in God is a central theme, encouraging believers to live in accordance with His commandments and to rely on His justice and protection.

A Plot Detected
... 'The wicked plotteth against the just.... The Lord will laugh at him.' The Psalmist's
experience and his faith were both repeated in Paul's case. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/a plot detected.htm

On the Second Part of the Psalm.
... 1. Then follow these words: "The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth
upon him with his teeth" (ver.12): "But the Lord shall laugh at him" (ver.13). ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/on the second part of.htm

June 9 Evening
... and he will flee from you. The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth
upon him with his teeth. The Lord shall laugh at him ...
/.../anonymous/daily light on the daily path/june 9 evening.htm

A Believer's Privilege at Death
... The dragon is described with seven heads and ten horns. Revelation 12:2.
He plotteth with the one, and pusheth with the other. But ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/2 a believers privilege at.htm

John vii. 37, 38
... [3.] Such a thing is malice! it will give way to nothing, it looks to one thing
only, and that is, to destroy the person against whom it plotteth. ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily li john vii 37.htm

The Best Introduction to this Production Will be the Following ...
... taken in a snare. And we in terror said: And who is he, O divine leader,
that plotteth against so august an embassage? And he replied ...
/.../africanus/the writings of julius africanus/the best introduction to this.htm

Antichrist in the Psalms
... and the Wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and
it shall not be." In vv.12 and 13 we read, "the Wicked plotteth against the just ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the antichrist/antichrist in the psalms .htm

Rom. xii. 4, 5
... since even Christ kissed that mouth which wrought His death! And therefore do not
thou either hate, but bewail and pity him that plotteth against thee. ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxi rom xii 4.htm

2 Cor. Iii. 7, 8
... tell me. It is from the Devil's malice. Thou art quite convinced that that which
plotteth against thee is a devil; wrestle then and fight with a distemper. ...
/.../homilies on the epistles of paul to the corinthians/homily vii 2 cor iii.htm

Plotteth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Plotteth (1 Occurrence). Psalms 37:12 The wicked plotteth
against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth. ...
/p/plotteth.htm - 6k

Plotting (13 Occurrences)

/p/plotting.htm - 9k

Gnasheth (4 Occurrences)
... me. (KJV DBY WBS). Psalms 37:12 The wicked plotteth against the just, and
gnasheth upon him with his teeth. (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). ...
/g/gnasheth.htm - 7k

Plotters (1 Occurrence)

/p/plotters.htm - 6k

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