Three Hebrew words are thus rendered in the Authorized Version. (1.) Heb. _mahsom'_ signifies a muzzle or halter or bridle, by which the rider governs his horse (Psa 39:1).
(2.) _Me'theg_, rendered also "bit" in Psa 32:9, Psa 32: which is its proper meaning. Found in 2-Kings 19:28, 2-Kings 19: where the restraints of God's providence are metaphorically styled his "bridle" and "hook." God's placing a "bridle in the jaws of the people" (Isa. 30:28;37:29) signifies his preventing the Assyrians from carrying out their purpose against Jerusalem.
(3.) Another word, _re'sen_, was employed to represent a halter or bridle-rein, as used Psa 32:9; Isa. 30:28. In Job 30:11 the restraints of law and humanity are called a bridle.