Proverbs 15:29
The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.
Original Language Analysis
רָח֣וֹק
is far
H7350
רָח֣וֹק
is far
Strong's:
H7350
Word #:
1 of 6
remote, literally or figuratively, of place or time; specifically, precious; often used adverbially (with preposition)
יְ֭הוָה
The LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
The LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 6
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
מֵרְשָׁעִ֑ים
from the wicked
H7563
מֵרְשָׁעִ֑ים
from the wicked
Strong's:
H7563
Word #:
3 of 6
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
Cross References
John 9:31Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.Proverbs 15:8The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.1 Peter 3:12For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.Psalms 138:6Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.Psalms 10:1Why standest thou afar off, O LORD? why hidest thou thyself in times of trouble?Matthew 25:46And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
Historical Context
Temple worship made spatial the theological reality of access to God's presence. Only priests entered the holy place, and high priest alone entered the Most Holy Place once annually, showing restricted access until Christ opened the way.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's righteousness grant you confident access to God in prayer?
- What sins create distance in your relationship with God requiring repentance?
Analysis & Commentary
The LORD is far from the wicked but hears the righteous. This doesn't deny God's omnipresence but His relational nearness and favor. Prayer's efficacy requires righteous standing before God, obtained only through Christ's imputed righteousness. The wicked have no access to God's throne apart from repentance.