Psalms 26:5
I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.
Original Language Analysis
מְרֵעִ֑ים
of evil doers
H7489
מְרֵעִ֑ים
of evil doers
Strong's:
H7489
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
וְעִם
H5973
וְעִם
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
4 of 7
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים
with the wicked
H7563
רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים
with the wicked
Strong's:
H7563
Word #:
5 of 7
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
Historical Context
Israel was called to be holy (separate) unto God. Joining 'the congregation of evildoers' meant covenant apostasy. The psalmist's protestation of innocence claims he maintained covenant loyalty against social pressure to compromise.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you 'hate evil' without becoming self-righteous toward evildoers?
- What 'congregations of evildoers' do you need to separate from?
Analysis & Commentary
The confession 'I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked' expresses strong moral opposition. 'Hated' (sane) means intense opposition to evil, not malicious feelings toward persons. This reflects Psalm 139:21-22—hating what God hates. Reformed theology emphasizes that love for God produces hatred of evil. This isn't self-righteous superiority but covenant loyalty—refusing fellowship with those who despise God's law. Grace and truth combine: love sinners, hate sin.