Psalms 119:110

KJV

The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts.

KJV (with Strong's)

The wicked {H7563} have laid {H5414} a snare {H6341} for me: yet I erred {H8582} not from thy precepts {H6490}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The wicked have set a trap for me, yet I haven't strayed from your precepts.

Berean Standard Bible

The wicked have set a snare for me, but I have not strayed from Your precepts.

American Standard Version

The wicked have laid a snare for me; Yet have I not gone astray from thy precepts.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 119:110 eloquently captures the psalmist's profound commitment to God's divine instructions, even when confronted by the insidious and malicious schemes of the wicked. It stands as a testament to unwavering spiritual integrity and steadfast adherence to truth, demonstrating resilience and faithfulness in the face of deceptive traps and hostile opposition designed to cause deviation from the righteous path.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, an intricately structured acrostic poem dedicated entirely to the celebration and exaltation of God's Word. Each of its 22 stanzas, corresponding to the letters of the Hebrew alphabet, consists of eight verses, with each verse in a given stanza beginning with the same Hebrew letter. This particular verse, Psalms 119:110, falls within the "Kaph" (כ) section (verses 105-112). Throughout this section, the psalmist frequently expresses deep personal distress and affliction, often at the hands of adversaries, yet consistently reaffirms his unwavering love for and reliance upon the Lord's statutes, commandments, and precepts. It is a powerful declaration of the enduring strength and stability found in devoted adherence to divine instruction amidst life's most trying circumstances, serving as a pivot point between lament and renewed commitment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While Psalm 119 does not tie to a specific historical event or period, it reflects the perennial experience of the righteous facing opposition in ancient Israel. The imagery of "laying a snare" (מוֹקֵשׁ, _moqesh_) draws from the common practice of hunting, where hidden traps were meticulously set to ensnare prey. This metaphor extends to human interactions, signifying deceitful plots, legal traps, social ostracism, or spiritual temptations engineered by those hostile to God's ways. The "wicked" (רְשָׁעִים, _resha'im_) represent those who actively oppose God's law and His people, often through cunning and malicious intent rather than overt force. For the psalmist, adherence to "precepts" (פִּקּוּדִים, _piqqudim_) was not merely abstract piety but a concrete way of life, deeply interwoven with the covenant relationship between God and Israel, guiding daily conduct and safeguarding against moral and spiritual compromise in a challenging world.

* **Key Themes:** Psalms 119:110 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the psalm and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Adversity and Persecution**, vividly portraying the active malice and deceptive tactics employed by those hostile to righteousness. The "snare" suggests hidden dangers and calculated attempts to cause the psalmist to stumble, fall, or compromise his faith, reflecting a pervasive biblical concern for the trials faced by the faithful (e.g., [Psalm 3:1-2](/psalms/3-1 "Psalm 3:1-2 - Many are my foes")). Secondly, the verse underscores **Unwavering Obedience and Integrity**. Despite these potent threats, the psalmist declares, "yet I erred not from thy precepts," a profound testament to his spiritual integrity and steadfast commitment to God's revealed will. This signifies not merely avoiding error but an active, conscious choice to remain aligned with divine instruction, demonstrating remarkable faithfulness under pressure, echoing the call for steadfastness found in [Deuteronomy 6:6-9](/deuteronomy/6-6 "Deuteronomy 6:6-9 - The Command to Love and Obey God"). Finally, it demonstrates **The Guiding Power of God's Word**. The "precepts" are presented as the anchor and guide that enable the psalmist to navigate dangers without straying. They are the source of stability, moral direction, and the wisdom and strength needed to resist the schemes of the wicked, reinforcing the truth that God's Word is a "lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" as declared in [Psalm 119:105](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - God's Word as a Lamp").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Snare (Hebrew, _moqesh'_):** The Hebrew word מוֹקֵשׁ (_moqesh_) refers to a literal trap, often for hunting animals, designed to capture or trip. In a metaphorical sense, as used here, it denotes a hidden danger, a pitfall, or a deceptive plot intended to cause one to stumble, fall into sin, or be entrapped in a difficult situation. It emphasizes the calculated and insidious nature of the opposition faced by the psalmist, suggesting active malice and a deliberate attempt to undermine his faithfulness.
* **Erred not (Hebrew, _lo ta'iti'_):** The phrase לֹא תָעִיתִי (_lo ta'iti_) comes from the root תָּעָה (_ta'ah_), meaning "to wander," "to stray," "to go astray," or "to err." The negative construction "erred not" signifies a conscious and deliberate refusal to deviate from the prescribed path. It implies a steadfastness and moral integrity that actively resists temptation and deception, maintaining a consistent alignment with God's will despite external pressures. It is not merely a passive avoidance of error but an active, intentional commitment to the right course.
* **Precepts (Hebrew, _piqqudim'_):** The Hebrew term פִּקּוּדִים (_piqqudim_) denotes divine mandates, ordinances, or specific, careful instructions given by God. Unlike general laws or statutes, "precepts" often imply detailed, precise commands that are appointed or entrusted by God for the well-being and righteous conduct of His people. The psalmist's adherence to these precepts signifies his commitment to God's specific and authoritative guidance, recognizing them as the infallible standard for life and the means by which he remains on the true path.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The wicked have laid a snare for me":** This clause vividly portrays the psalmist's perilous situation. The "wicked" (רְשָׁעִים, _resha'im_) are those who are morally corrupt and actively hostile to God and His righteous ways. Their action of "laying a snare" implies a deliberate, cunning, and often hidden attempt to entrap, deceive, or cause the psalmist to fall from his integrity or faith. This is not accidental opposition but a calculated act of malice, designed to disrupt his walk with God and lead him into sin or ruin.
* **"yet I erred not from thy precepts":** This second clause stands in stark contrast to the first, highlighting the psalmist's unwavering faithfulness and resilience. Despite the severe and deceptive threats posed by the wicked, he declares that he has not "erred" or strayed from God's "precepts"—His specific, divinely appointed instructions. This is a powerful affirmation of his spiritual discipline, his deep knowledge of and commitment to God's Word, and his active choice to remain obedient, demonstrating that divine guidance provides the stability and protection necessary to navigate and overcome even the most insidious plots.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 119:110 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where the "snare" serves as a vivid image for the deceptive and dangerous plots of the wicked. This metaphor, drawn from the literal act of hunting, effectively communicates the hidden, cunning, and entrapping nature of the opposition the psalmist faces. There is also a strong element of **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, as the malicious actions of "the wicked" in laying a snare are directly juxtaposed with the psalmist's steadfast and unyielding obedience ("yet I erred not from thy precepts"). This stark contrast highlights the psalmist's moral fortitude and the protective power of God's Word against external pressures. Furthermore, the declaration "I erred not" carries a sense of **Affirmation** and **Assertion**, emphasizing the psalmist's integrity and the active choice he makes to remain faithful despite adversity, reinforcing the theme of divine faithfulness enabling human steadfastness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 119:110 resonates deeply with the broader biblical narrative concerning the conflict between righteousness and wickedness, and the sustaining power of God's Word. The psalmist's experience reflects the universal struggle of believers who face opposition from a world hostile to divine truth. Theologically, it underscores the concept of divine sovereignty, where God's precepts serve as an unshakeable anchor in a tumultuous world, providing a clear path that prevents His faithful from being swept away by evil schemes. It also highlights the theme of human responsibility and integrity, demonstrating that steadfastness is a conscious choice, empowered by God's revealed will. The verse ultimately affirms that true freedom and security are found not in avoiding conflict, but in unwavering adherence to God's commands, which act as a shield and a guide against the forces of darkness.

* [Psalm 140:5](/psalms/140-5 "Psalm 140:5 - The Wicked Lay Snares")
* [Psalm 1:1-2](/psalms/1-1 "Psalm 1:1-2 - Blessed is the Man Who Delights in God's Law")
* [Proverbs 4:23-27](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23-27 - Guard Your Heart and Your Path")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For contemporary believers, Psalms 119:110 offers profound encouragement and a vital call to spiritual vigilance. We, too, encounter various "snares" in our daily lives—temptations that appeal to our flesh, false ideologies that seek to distort truth, societal pressures that demand compromise, or even direct opposition and persecution for our faith. These snares are designed to cause us to "err" from God's path, to compromise our integrity, or to abandon our devotion. This verse reminds us that our ability to remain steadfast and "err not" is directly proportional to our deep knowledge of and unwavering commitment to God's Word. It is through His precepts that we gain discernment to recognize the traps, wisdom to navigate treacherous terrain, and strength to resist the pull of sin and apostasy. Our spiritual stability and resilience are forged in the crucible of intentional obedience, enabling us to walk righteously and fearlessly even in a world actively hostile to Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "snares" or temptations are you currently facing that seek to draw you away from God's precepts?**
* **How does your daily engagement with God's Word equip you to recognize and resist these snares?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to cultivate a deeper commitment to "err not" from God's specific instructions?**
* **How can the steadfastness of the psalmist inspire you to greater integrity when facing opposition for your faith?**

### FAQ

**What kind of "snares" did the psalmist face, and what do they represent for us today?**

Answer: The "snares" the psalmist faced were likely multifaceted, ranging from literal traps set by enemies to spiritual, social, or legal plots designed to cause his downfall or compromise his adherence to God's law. In the ancient Near East, "snares" could refer to ambushes, false accusations, or attempts to lure someone into sin or rebellion against God. For believers today, these "snares" represent any force or influence that seeks to draw us away from God's truth and His will. This can include the allure of worldly temptations ([1 John 2:16](/1_john/2-16 "1 John 2:16 - The Lust of the Flesh, Eyes, and Pride of Life")), the deceit of false teachings and ideologies ([Colossians 2:8](/colossians/2-8 "Colossians 2:8 - Beware of Empty Deception")), the pressures of societal norms that contradict biblical values ([Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Do Not Be Conformed to This World")), or even direct persecution and opposition for our faith ([2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - All Who Desire to Live Godly Will Suffer Persecution")).

**How does God's Word help us "err not" from His precepts?**

Answer: God's Word, His "precepts," serves as our infallible guide and protector, enabling us to "err not" in several crucial ways. Firstly, it provides **clarity and discernment**, illuminating the path of righteousness and exposing the deceptive nature of sin and evil schemes ([Psalm 119:105](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp")). Secondly, it imparts **wisdom and understanding**, equipping us to make wise choices and navigate complex situations in alignment with God's will ([Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "Proverbs 2:6 - The Lord Gives Wisdom")). Thirdly, it offers **strength and conviction**, fortifying our resolve to stand firm against temptation and opposition ([Ephesians 6:17](/ephesians/6-17 "Ephesians 6:17 - The Sword of the Spirit, Which is the Word of God")). By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we internalize God's standards, allowing His truth to transform our minds and hearts, making us resilient against the "snares" of the world and enabling us to walk in unwavering obedience.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 119:110 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The psalmist's declaration, "The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts," prefigures the flawless obedience of the Son of God. Jesus, throughout His earthly ministry, faced the ultimate "snares" laid by the wicked—from the direct temptations of Satan in the wilderness ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")) to the constant plots of the religious leaders to trap Him in His words ([Luke 11:53-54](/luke/11-53 "Luke 11:53-54 - Scribes and Pharisees Lay Traps for Jesus")) and ultimately, the betrayal and crucifixion orchestrated by sinful humanity. Yet, in every instance, Jesus "erred not from thy precepts." He perfectly obeyed the Father's will, not merely avoiding sin but actively fulfilling all righteousness ([Matthew 3:15](/matthew/3-15 "Matthew 3:15 - Jesus Fulfills All Righteousness")). His life was the embodiment of perfect adherence to God's law, demonstrating what it means to live entirely by "every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" ([Matthew 4:4](/matthew/4-4 "Matthew 4:4 - Man Shall Not Live by Bread Alone")). As the sinless Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), He was tempted in every way, yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest, Tempted Yet Without Sin")), offering His perfect obedience as the basis for our salvation. Through His steadfastness, Christ not only lived out the ideal of Psalms 119:110 but also provided the means for us, by faith in Him, to be declared righteous and empowered by His Spirit to walk in His precepts, even amidst the snares of this world ([Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3 "Romans 8:3-4 - The Law Fulfilled in Christ")).

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

Psalms 140:5

The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set gins for me. Selah.

Psalms 141:9

Keep me from the snares [which] they have laid for me, and the gins of the workers of iniquity.

Psalms 119:85

¶ The proud have digged pits for me, which [are] not after thy law.

Psalms 119:10

¶ With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.

Psalms 119:95

¶ The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: [but] I will consider thy testimonies.

Psalms 124:6

¶ Blessed [be] the LORD, who hath not given us [as] a prey to their teeth.

Psalms 124:7

Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped.