Psalms 101:4

KJV

A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked [person].

KJV (with Strong's)

A froward {H6141} heart {H3824} shall depart {H5493} from me: I will not know {H3045} a wicked {H7451} person.

Complete Jewish Bible

Deviousness will depart from me; I will not tolerate evil.

Berean Standard Bible

A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will know nothing of evil.

American Standard Version

A perverse heart shall depart from me: I will know no evil thing.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 101:4 captures King David's solemn vow to maintain personal and governmental integrity by actively rejecting moral perversity and wicked associations. This verse is a foundational declaration within a "royal psalm," illustrating the king's commitment to a righteous court and a pure heart, understanding that the character of his inner circle directly impacts the justice and stability of his rule. It underscores the principle that true leadership, and indeed true spiritual living, begins with an internal commitment to uprightness and extends to the deliberate choice of one's closest companions and influences.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 101 is a "royal psalm" and a programmatic declaration by King David, outlining the principles by which he intends to govern his kingdom and conduct his personal life. It functions as a king's vow, setting forth an ideal standard for righteous rule and personal integrity. Placed within Book IV of the Psalter, it follows psalms that often reflect on the nation's struggles and the need for God's righteous judgment, making David's commitment to justice and purity particularly poignant. The psalm's structure moves from a general declaration of intent ([Psalms 101:1](/psalms/101-1 "Psalms 101:1 - A Song of Mercy and Justice")) to specific vows regarding his personal conduct ([Psalms 101:2](/psalms/101-2 "Psalms 101:2 - Walking in Blamelessness")) and the composition of his court ([Psalms 101:3](/psalms/101-3 "Psalms 101:3 - Hating the Work of Transgressors") through [Psalms 101:8](/psalms/101-8 "Psalms 101:8 - Cutting Off the Wicked")). Verse 4 specifically addresses the king's resolve concerning his inner circle and personal associations, emphasizing the internal disposition of those he will keep far from him.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the king was not merely a political leader but also a spiritual figure, expected to uphold God's law and embody righteousness. His court was a reflection of his character and a crucial instrument of governance. The presence of "froward" or wicked individuals in the king's inner circle could lead to corruption, injustice, and ultimately, divine disfavor upon the nation. David, as the newly established king, understood the immense responsibility of his office and the need to establish a kingdom founded on justice and integrity, distinct from the corrupt practices of surrounding nations. His vow in Psalms 101 reflects a conscious effort to establish a righteous administration, recognizing that the king's personal ethics and the moral quality of his advisors were paramount for the well-being of the entire society. This commitment was vital for fulfilling the covenant promises made to him and his descendants, as seen in passages like [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant").

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within the Psalter and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Righteous Governance**, emphasizing that ethical leadership is rooted in personal integrity and the careful selection of associates. A king's commitment to justice and purity, as expressed here, is a prerequisite for a stable and blessed kingdom. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Personal Integrity and Purity**, demonstrating that true righteousness begins in the heart. David's resolve to keep a "froward heart" far from him speaks to an internal commitment to moral uprightness. Thirdly, it emphasizes **Separation from Evil**, not in a monastic sense, but as a deliberate refusal to condone, participate in, or closely associate with wickedness. This theme resonates with the call for God's people to be distinct and holy, as articulated in the Mosaic Law (e.g., [Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")) and later echoed in the wisdom literature of [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "Proverbs 1 - The Beginning of Knowledge"). The king's vow to "not know a wicked person" is a practical outworking of this principle in the highest office of the land.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Froward (Hebrew, _'iqqesh'_):** This Hebrew term (עִקֵּשׁ) means "twisted," "perverse," "crooked," or "deceitful." It describes a disposition that is morally distorted, contrary to what is right and true. Such a heart is inherently deceptive, resistant to uprightness, and inclined towards deviance from God's standards. When applied to a "heart," it signifies a deep-seated moral corruption, a will that is bent away from righteousness. David's declaration indicates a commitment to honesty, straightforwardness, and moral rectitude, utterly rejecting such a disposition from his presence and influence.
* **Know (Hebrew, _yada'_):** The Hebrew word (יָדַע) for "know" is rich in meaning, extending beyond mere intellectual awareness. In this context, it signifies intimate acquaintance, approval, close association, or even fellowship. It implies a deep, experiential knowledge that shapes one's character and conduct. David is not suggesting he will be ignorant of the existence of wicked people, but rather that he will not approve of them, welcome them into his confidence, or maintain close fellowship with them. This is a commitment to a discerning and morally pure inner circle.
* **Wicked (Hebrew, _rasha'_):** This term (רָשָׁע) refers to those who are guilty, unrighteous, or hostile to God's ways. It describes individuals who act contrary to divine law and justice, often characterized by active wrongdoing, oppression, or moral depravity. David's refusal to "know" such individuals underscores his resolve to distance himself from those whose lives are defined by ungodliness and injustice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A froward heart shall depart from me":** This clause reveals the king's profound commitment to internal purity and the moral character of his immediate environment. A "froward heart" represents a disposition of perversity, deceit, and moral distortion. David declares that such a disposition, whether found within himself or in those closest to him, will not be tolerated. This is a forceful rejection of internal corruption and external influence that would compromise his integrity or the righteousness of his rule. It signifies a proactive purification of his inner self and his court.
* **"I will not know a wicked [person]":** Building on the previous clause, this statement extends the king's commitment to his associations. The verb "know" (yada') here implies more than mere acquaintance; it signifies intimate fellowship, approval, or deep personal connection. David is vowing not to welcome, affirm, or maintain close relationships with individuals characterized by wickedness. This is a crucial aspect of righteous leadership, as the king's companions directly influence his decisions, the moral tone of his court, and the public perception of his reign. The bracketed "[person]" in the KJV clarifies that "wicked" refers to individuals, emphasizing the discernment in choosing companions.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 101:4 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The primary device is **Vow/Oath**, as the entire psalm functions as a programmatic declaration of the king's commitment to righteous governance. This performative speech act underscores the solemnity and binding nature of David's resolve. There is also clear **Antithesis**, implicitly contrasting the king's desired state of purity and righteousness with the "froward heart" and "wicked person" he rejects. This creates a sharp moral distinction. The phrase "froward heart" uses **Metonymy**, where "heart" stands for the entire inner being, the seat of intellect, will, and emotion, emphasizing that the moral distortion originates from within. Furthermore, the two clauses exhibit a form of **Parallelism**, where the second clause ("I will not know a wicked person") reinforces and expands upon the first ("A froward heart shall depart from me"), moving from an internal disposition to external associations, both being objects of the king's determined rejection.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 101:4 articulates a profound theological principle: that righteousness is not merely an outward act but begins with an internal disposition and extends to the company one keeps. This verse reflects God's own character, as He is utterly separate from evil and cannot "know" or approve of wickedness in the sense of intimate fellowship or endorsement. For David, a king ruling in God's stead, this commitment was essential for reflecting divine justice and holiness. It highlights the biblical emphasis on discernment and the understanding that our associations profoundly shape our character and spiritual trajectory. The call to separate from evil is a consistent thread throughout Scripture, urging believers to align themselves with God's purity and truth, rather than being conformed to the world's corruption.

* [Proverbs 3:32](/proverbs/3-32 "Proverbs 3:32 - The Froward are an Abomination to the Lord")
* [1 Corinthians 15:33](/1_corinthians/15-33 "1 Corinthians 15:33 - Bad Company Corrupts Good Morals")
* [2 Corinthians 6:14-17](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14-17 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While Psalms 101:4 is a king's vow, its principles are profoundly applicable to every believer today. It calls us to a radical commitment to personal integrity, reminding us that our spiritual walk begins with the purification of our hearts. Just as David sought to remove "frowardness" from his court, we are called to examine our own inner lives, identifying and repenting of any twisted desires, deceitful motives, or perverse inclinations that stand contrary to God's truth. This requires honest self-assessment and a willingness to allow the Holy Spirit to expose and transform areas of moral compromise. Furthermore, the verse serves as a powerful reminder of the critical importance of choosing our closest companions wisely. Our associations significantly influence our character, values, and spiritual trajectory. We are called to be discerning, recognizing that intimate fellowship with those who actively embrace wickedness can corrupt our own walk and compromise our witness. This does not mean isolating ourselves from the world or refusing to engage with non-believers for evangelism, but rather exercising wisdom in who we allow into our inner circle, those who shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. It is a call to maintain a moral stand, refusing to participate in or condone evil, and striving for purity in all spheres of life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might a "froward heart" manifest itself in my own life today, and how can I actively seek to have it "depart from me"?**
* **How discerning am I about my closest relationships, and do I allow any "wicked persons" (in the sense of those who actively promote ungodliness or compromise) to influence my thoughts or actions?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a heart of integrity and to choose associations that encourage spiritual growth and righteousness?**
* **How does my commitment to personal purity and wise associations reflect God's own character and advance His kingdom in my sphere of influence?**

### FAQ

**What does 'froward heart' mean in a practical sense for believers today?**

Answer: A "froward heart" (Hebrew: *'iqqesh*) refers to a disposition that is twisted, perverse, or morally crooked. Practically, for believers today, it signifies a heart that is stubbornly resistant to God's truth, prone to deceit, or inclined towards moral compromise. It's a heart that prioritizes self-will over divine will, or seeks to justify unrighteousness. It can manifest as a lack of integrity, a tendency to manipulate, or a stubborn refusal to acknowledge sin. Recognizing a "froward heart" within oneself involves honest self-examination, acknowledging areas where one's desires or intentions are not aligned with God's righteous standards, and actively seeking repentance and transformation through the power of the Holy Spirit.

**Does 'I will not know a wicked person' mean I should avoid all contact with non-believers?**

Answer: No, this verse does not advocate for complete isolation from non-believers or those who do not share our moral convictions. The Hebrew word "know" (*yada'*) in this context implies intimate fellowship, approval, or close association that influences one's character and conduct. It's about refusing to enter into deep, approving relationships or partnerships that would compromise one's faith or integrity. The Bible clearly calls believers to be "salt and light" in the world ([Matthew 5:13-16](/matthew/5-13 "Matthew 5:13-16 - Salt and Light")), which necessitates engaging with people from all walks of life, including those who are not followers of Christ, for the purpose of evangelism and demonstrating God's love. However, it also warns against being "unequally yoked" with unbelievers in ways that would lead to spiritual compromise or a blurring of moral lines ([2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")). The key is discernment: we are called to be in the world, but not of the world, maintaining our distinctiveness and moral purity while still extending grace and truth.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 101:4 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. David's vow to keep a "froward heart" far from him and to "not know a wicked person" speaks to the ideal of a perfectly righteous king, an ideal that only Christ fully embodies. Jesus' heart was never "froward"; it was perfectly aligned with the will of His Father, pure, upright, and utterly without deceit or perversity ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Our High Priest Sympathizes")). While He "knew" no sin in terms of personal experience or complicity ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - He Who Knew No Sin")), He intimately "knew" sinners in order to save them, demonstrating a divine balance between absolute purity and compassionate outreach. He associated with tax collectors and prostitutes, not to condone their sin, but to call them to repentance and offer them new life ([Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus Eats with Sinners")). As the true King, Jesus establishes a kingdom founded on perfect righteousness and justice, where no "froward heart" can ultimately reside ([Revelation 21:27](/revelation/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - Nothing Unclean Shall Enter")). Through His atoning sacrifice, He purifies the hearts of His followers, enabling them by His Spirit to increasingly put away "frowardness" and to live lives separated from the dominion of wickedness, reflecting the very purity of their King ([1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy As I Am Holy")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 11:20

¶ They that are of a froward heart [are] abomination to the LORD: but [such as are] upright in [their] way [are] his delight.

2 Timothy 2:19

¶ Nevertheless 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.

Matthew 7:23

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Proverbs 9:6

Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.

Proverbs 22:24

¶ Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:

Psalms 119:115

¶ Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.

Proverbs 8:13

The fear of the LORD [is] to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.