Psalms 5:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 5:6
6 Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the LORD will abhor the bloody and deceitful man.
Chapter Context
Psalms 5 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, truth, wisdom. 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
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 5:6
6 Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the LORD will abhor the bloody and deceitful man.
Analysis
God's judgment extends to specific categories of sinners: liars ('speak leasing'), the violent ('bloody'), and the deceitful. The Hebrew 'kazab' (leasing/lies) emphasizes falsehood, while 'damim' (bloody) refers to those who shed innocent blood. God's 'abhorrence' (Hebrew 'ta'ab') is visceral rejection. These categories encompass humanity's chief sins against the ninth and sixth commandments. Yet this severe warning points to our need for a Savior who bore God's abhorrence on our behalf, becoming truth for liars and peace for the violent.
Historical Context
Israel's law prescribed death for both murder and bearing false witness in capital cases, reflecting God's hatred of these sins. The prophets constantly condemned bloodshed and deceit among Israel's leaders. Jesus called Satan the father of lies (John 8:44), connecting lying to ultimate evil. Revelation excludes liars from the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:8, 27).
Reflection
- In what subtle ways might you be practicing deceit that God abhors?
- How does knowing that God hates these sins motivate you toward truth and peace?
Word Studies
- Blood: דָּם (Dam) H1818 - Blood
Cross-References
- Blood: Psalms 55:23
- Sin: Psalms 4:2, Isaiah 26:21
- Parallel theme: Revelation 21:8, 22:15