Psalm 119:150

Translations

Modern

Those who follow after wickedness draw near; they are far from Your law.

Traditional

They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.

Literal

They draw near, those pursuing wickedness! From Your law they are far.

Latin

Appropinquaverunt persequentes me iniquitati: a lege autem tua longe facti sunt.

Original

Hebrew

English

Those who follow after wickedness draw near; they are far from Your law.

Notes

Psalms 119:150–151

Coming to attack me (or draw near) is a Hebrew wordplay on You are near. The wicked stay far from God's instructions, but the psalmist stays close, so he does not need to fear.

Psalms 119:145–152

Qoph (ק) is the nineteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It marks the beginning of the next section of this psalm.

The psalmist prays to the Lord at night. Even when God seems distant, he is actually close.

Psalms 119:1–176

This psalm blends wisdom, lament, praise, thanksgiving, and confession. It often uses eight Hebrew words translated as:

“Instructions”
“law”
“words”
“commandments”
“statutes”
“judgments”
“promises”
“precepts“

These words encourage love for and obedience to God's instructions in the Scriptures (see 2 Timothy 3:14–17). A deep commitment to these instructions unifies the psalm.

Related verses

Psalm 27:2
When the wicked came upon me to devour my flesh, my enemies and foes stumbled and fell.
Proverbs 28:9
Whoever turns his ear away from hearing the law, even his prayer is detestable.
Psalm 22:16
For dogs surround me; a band of evil men encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet.
Psalm 50:17
For you hate My instruction and cast My words behind you.
Psalm 22:11–13
Be not far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help.
1 Samuel 23:16
And Saul’s son Jonathan came to David in Horesh and strengthened his hand in God,
Job 21:14
Yet they say to God: ‘Leave us alone! For we have no desire to know Your ways.
2 Samuel 17:16
Now send quickly and tell David, ‘Do not spend the night at the fords of the wilderness, but be sure to cross over. Otherwise the king and all the people with him will be swallowed up.’”
Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Ephesians 2:13–14
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.
Matthew 26:46–47
Rise, let us go! See, My betrayer is approaching!”
Proverbs 1:22
“How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge?

Glossary

Acrostic Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Biblical Concept of Law Music Poetry, Biblical Proverbs, Book of Psalms, Book of Word, Word of God, Words of God

Topics

Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Righteousness: The Wicked are Far From

Psalm 119:150

Translations?

Original?

Notes?

Related verses?

Glossary?

Topics?