Psalms 101:4
A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
Original Language Analysis
מִמֶּ֑נִּי
H4480
מִמֶּ֑נִּי
Strong's:
H4480
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
Cross References
Proverbs 11:20They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.Psalms 119:115Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.Proverbs 9:6Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.Proverbs 22:24Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:Proverbs 8:13The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.Matthew 7:23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.2 Timothy 2:19Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
Historical Context
Written by David as a royal psalm of commitment, likely composed upon his coronation or during a covenant renewal ceremony. Ancient Near Eastern kings often made public vows of righteous rule before their subjects.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'froward' influences or relationships do you need to distance yourself from in obedience to God?
- How does Christ's perfect righteousness enable believers to pursue holiness in their own spheres of influence?
Analysis & Commentary
The Hebrew 'froward' (iqqesh) denotes perversion or moral crookedness. David's resolve to distance himself from wickedness reflects the biblical principle of separation from evil (2 Cor 6:17). This verse establishes a standard for godly leadership: the ruler's personal holiness must precede his public administration. The Reformed emphasis on total depravity reminds us that such purity is only possible through God's sanctifying grace, pointing ultimately to Christ who perfectly embodied this standard.