24:2

This verse tells the parallel reasons to obey the commands in 24:1. Notice the parallel parts that are similar in meaning:

2a for their hearts devise violence,

2b and their lips declare trouble.

The reasons progress from the inward plans of wicked people to their discussion of those plans.

24:2a–b

their hearts…their lips: These parallel phrases are figures of speech (synecdoche). They represent the wicked people themselves.

violence…declare trouble: In this context, both these terms refer to evil deeds that harm other people. Some versions translate the second term as “mischief.” In English, this word often refers to the minor, naughty things that children do. But the Hebrew terms here refer to more serious acts of evil.

24:2a

for their hearts devise violence: This line means “they plan to treat others in a way that is harmful, cruel, or oppressive.” Some other ways to translate this line are:

for violence is all they think of (Revised English Bible)
-or-
Their minds are always planning violence (New Century Version)

The word violence also occurs in 21:7.

24:2b

and their lips declare trouble: This line means that they discuss ways that they can cause trouble, harm, or misery to other people. Some other ways to translate this line are:

and they always talk about causing trouble

General Comment on 24:2a–b

In some languages, it may be more natural to combine and/or reorder one or more of the parallel parts. For example:

All they think about and talk about is violence and cruelty. (Contemporary English Version)

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