Psalms 119:150
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 119:150
150 They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.
Chapter Context
Psalms 119 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, faith, mercy. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-176: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 119:150
150 They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.
Analysis
They draw nigh that follow after mischief (קָרְבוּ רֹדְפֵי זִמָּה, qarevu rodefe zimmah)—Pursuers of wickedness (zimmah, lewdness, evil schemes) are approaching. They are far from thy law (מִתּוֹרָתְךָ רָחָקוּ, mi-toratka rachaqu)—The contrast is spatial and moral: proximity to evil corresponds with distance from Torah. Those near wickedness are far from God's instruction.
This verse describes the wicked's trajectory. Psalm 1:1 warns against walking in the counsel of the ungodly—the progressive movement toward sin and away from God. Romans 1:28 speaks of those who "did not like to retain God in their knowledge," resulting in a "reprobate mind." Distance from God's law is not neutral ground—it is the path toward destruction. Conversely, drawing near to God means drawing near to His Word (James 4:8).
Historical Context
In Israel's history, periods of apostasy were marked by the rise of those who 'followed after mischief'—Baal worship, child sacrifice, injustice. The prophets confronted this pattern repeatedly (Jeremiah 2:5, 7:24).
Reflection
- What is the relationship between the company you keep ('they draw nigh') and your proximity to or distance from God's law?
- How can you discern when you are drifting away from God's Word before reaching a crisis point?
Word Studies
- Law: תּוֹרָה (Torah) H8451 - Law, instruction
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 27:2