Psalms 119:115

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Depart {H5493} from me, ye evildoers {H7489}: for I will keep {H5341} the commandments {H4687} of my God {H430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Leave me alone, you evildoers, so that I can keep my God's mitzvot.

Berean Standard Bible

Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may obey the commandments of my God.

American Standard Version

Depart from me, ye evil-doers, That I may keep the commandments of my God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 119:115 presents a powerful and unwavering declaration by the Psalmist, articulating a resolute commitment to God's divine commandments and, as a direct consequence, an imperative separation from those who actively engage in wickedness. This verse encapsulates the profound conviction that genuine devotion to God's revealed will necessitates a deliberate distancing from corrupting influences, highlighting the inseparable link between one's chosen associations and the integrity of one's walk of faith. It stands as a bold statement of personal resolve to live in active obedience, prioritizing the divine law above all worldly enticements and unrighteous paths.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, is an intricate acrostic poem, with each of its 22 sections corresponding to a letter of the Hebrew alphabet and containing eight verses beginning with that letter. It serves as an expansive and profound meditation on the multifaceted nature, supreme value, and life-giving power of God's Word. Within this grand tribute, verse 115 is situated in the "Samekh" section (verses 113-120). This section commences with the Psalmist's emphatic declaration of hatred for "double-mindedness" (verse 113), a state of divided loyalty, and a fervent affirmation of God as his "hiding place and his shield" (verse 114), in whom he places his unwavering hope. The decisive declaration in [Psalms 119:115](/psalms/119-115 "Psalms 119:115 - Depart from Evildoers")—"Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God"—logically flows from this preceding affirmation of singular devotion and trust. It represents the practical outworking of a heart that has unequivocally chosen God's path and seeks refuge in His Word, leading to an active rejection of anything that would compromise that sacred commitment. This foundational stance then sets the stage for a life lived in consistent obedience to divine instruction, as further elaborated in the subsequent verses of the section, such as the earnest plea for God's upholding power in [Psalms 119:117](/psalms/119-117 "Psalms 119:117 - Uphold Me").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Israelite worldview, deeply embedded in the communal and covenantal life, profoundly integrated religious and societal norms. The concept of "evildoers" (often referring to those whose lives were characterized by active injustice, idolatry, or moral corruption) posed a significant threat to the purity and fidelity of the covenant community. In a society where the Law of God (Torah) formed the very bedrock of national identity, individual conduct, and communal flourishing, adherence to its precepts was not merely a personal choice but a paramount act of covenant loyalty. The Psalmist's declaration for separation was thus more than a personal preference; it echoed the broader biblical call for Israel to be a holy nation, set apart from the surrounding pagan cultures and their morally compromising practices. This principle is vividly articulated in passages like [Leviticus 20:26](/leviticus/20-26 "Leviticus 20:26 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy"), where God commands His people to be holy because He is holy, requiring a distinct separation from the ways of the nations. This choice to "keep the commandments" carried significant social implications, potentially leading to ostracization or conflict with those who did not share the same unwavering commitment, thereby underscoring the profound moral courage inherent in the Psalmist's public stance.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 119:115 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes pervasive within Psalm 119 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Radical Obedience and Singular Devotion to God's Word**. The Psalmist's commitment to "keep the commandments of my God" is presented as the primary motivation for his actions, establishing obedience not as a burdensome obligation but as a cherished pursuit and a joyful response to divine truth. This aligns perfectly with the pervasive message of Psalm 119 that the blessed life is found in walking according to God's law, as declared in its opening verse, [Psalms 119:1](/psalms/119-1 "Psalms 119:1 - Blessed Are the Undefiled"). Secondly, the verse highlights the critical theme of **Sanctification and Necessary Separation**. The imperative "Depart from me, ye evildoers" signifies a deliberate and active act of setting oneself apart from unrighteous influences. This separation is crucial for maintaining spiritual purity and unwavering fidelity to God. It reflects the biblical principle that holiness involves both a positive consecration to God and a negative separation from sin, a concept seen repeatedly throughout the Scriptures, such as in the Apostle Paul's exhortation in [2 Corinthians 6:17](/2_corinthians/6-17 "2 Corinthians 6:17 - Come Out From Among Them"). Finally, the verse speaks profoundly to the theme of **Moral Courage and Uncompromising Integrity**. In a world often hostile or indifferent to divine truth, the Psalmist's bold declaration demonstrates the inner strength and conviction required to stand firm in one's faith, choosing God's way even when it means confronting or distancing oneself from prevailing societal norms or personal relationships that compromise one's spiritual walk. This echoes the sentiment of decisive commitment found in [Joshua 24:15](/joshua/24-15 "Joshua 24:15 - Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve"), where the choice to serve the Lord is presented as an exclusive and defining act.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Depart (Hebrew, _çûwr'_):** This word, derived from H5493, is an imperative verb meaning "to turn off," "turn away," or "remove yourselves." Its use here is a strong, direct command, indicating a definitive and intentional act of separation. It is not a passive withdrawal but an active expulsion or rejection, emphasizing the Psalmist's agency and resolute will in setting boundaries. The imperative mood conveys urgency and authority, reflecting the Psalmist's profound conviction that such a separation is non-negotiable for a life of obedience.
* **Evildoers (Hebrew, _râʻaʻ'_):** This term, derived from H7489, signifies those who are "bad" or "wicked," actively engaged in causing harm, mischief, or moral corruption. The root meaning implies "to spoil" or "to make good for nothing." It refers not merely to occasional wrongdoing but to a characteristic and habitual engagement in unrighteousness, often associated with injustice or actions that oppose God's righteous standards. The Psalmist is rejecting those whose very lives are defined by their practice of sin and iniquity.
* **Commandments (Hebrew, _mitsvâh'_):** This term, derived from H4687, refers to God's divine precepts, statutes, or instructions. It signifies authoritative directions given by God for human conduct, which are understood to be beneficial, righteous, and life-giving. The plural form highlights the comprehensive nature of God's law, encompassing all aspects of life and conduct. The Psalmist's commitment is to the entirety of God's revealed will, recognizing its holistic claim on his life, rather than just select portions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Depart from me, ye evildoers:"** This clause constitutes a direct, forceful imperative, an authoritative command issued by the Psalmist to those whose lives are characterized by active wickedness. The phrase "from me" signifies a crucial personal boundary being drawn, indicating that the presence, influence, or close association with "evildoers" is fundamentally incompatible with the Psalmist's chosen path of righteousness. It is a bold declaration of spiritual and moral discernment, recognizing that certain relationships and influences are detrimental to one's walk with God and must be actively rejected.
* **"for I will keep the commandments of my God."** This clause provides the essential motivation and profound justification for the preceding command. The conjunction "for" (כִּי, _kî'_) establishes a clear causal link: the Psalmist's unwavering commitment to obeying God's law necessitates and empowers the separation from evildoers. The phrase "I will keep" (אֶצְּרָה, _’eṣ·ṣə·rāh'_) is a strong, volitional statement, indicating a firm, personal resolve and a future-oriented commitment to guard, observe, and faithfully obey God's precepts. The possessive "my God" underscores the intimate, covenantal relationship that fuels this devotion, making obedience a deeply personal act of worship, loyalty, and love.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 119:115 powerfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message and emotional intensity. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood** in "Depart from me," which lends an authoritative, decisive, and non-negotiable tone to the Psalmist's declaration. This is not a hesitant request but a firm command, reflecting deep conviction and spiritual resolve. Second, the verse masterfully utilizes **Antithesis** by juxtaposing "evildoers" with "the commandments of my God." This stark contrast highlights the irreconcilable difference between a life characterized by active wickedness and a life wholly devoted to divine obedience, emphasizing that one must make a clear choice between these two fundamentally opposing paths. Finally, the verse functions as a powerful **Personal Declaration**, a bold and public statement of the Psalmist's individual resolve and commitment. The emphatic use of "I will keep" and the intimate "my God" underscores the deeply personal and covenantal nature of this decision, making it a compelling model for individual faithfulness and a testament to the transformative power of God's Word in one's life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 119:115 articulates a fundamental theological principle: genuine devotion to God's revealed will inherently requires a discerning separation from all that opposes it. This is not merely about physical distance but a profound moral and spiritual distinction, recognizing that our associations and influences profoundly impact our spiritual trajectory and fidelity to God. The Psalmist's declaration reflects the pervasive biblical emphasis on holiness as a state of being "set apart" for God, which necessitates careful discernment regarding influences that could compromise one's commitment to righteousness. It underscores that obedience to God's commands is not a legalistic burden but a joyful, Spirit-empowered response of love and loyalty, a path that naturally leads one away from the "workers of iniquity" and towards a deeper, unhindered communion with the divine. This verse serves as a timeless reminder that our commitment to God's Word must be the ultimate arbiter of our relationships, choices, and the very direction of our lives.

* [Proverbs 13:20](/proverbs/13-20 "Proverbs 13:20 - Walk with the Wise")
* [2 Corinthians 6:14-17](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14-17 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")
* [James 4:4](/james/4-4 "James 4:4 - Friendship with the World Is Enmity with God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 119:115 offers a profound challenge and a powerful encouragement for believers in every age. It calls us to a radical re-evaluation of our priorities, our associations, and our daily choices, urging us to prayerfully consider whether our closest relationships and the influences we permit into our lives truly align with our declared commitment to God's Word. The Psalmist's bold declaration serves as a model of moral courage, reminding us that true devotion to Christ may necessitate difficult choices, including distancing ourselves from individuals, ideologies, or cultural currents that would draw us away from righteousness and compromise our spiritual integrity. This separation is not born of self-righteousness, isolation, or judgment of others, but rather out of a deep and abiding love for God and a fervent desire to honor His commands above all else. It requires spiritual discernment to identify "evildoers" not just as overtly wicked individuals, but as any person, philosophy, or pervasive mindset that actively promotes values contrary to God's truth and seeks to undermine our obedience. Ultimately, this verse invites us to cultivate an unwavering resolve to "keep the commandments of my God," recognizing that such a commitment is the indispensable foundation for a life of purity, purpose, and profound spiritual freedom in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "evildoers" or negative influences, whether people, media, or mindsets, do I need to "depart from" in my life to more fully "keep the commandments of my God"?**
* **How does my commitment to God's Word actively shape my choices regarding friendships, entertainment, social media consumption, and personal pursuits?**
* **What specific "commandments of my God" am I currently striving to keep, and how does that pursuit motivate me to set healthy, God-honoring boundaries in my life?**
* **In what areas of my life do I find myself double-minded or experiencing divided loyalty, and how can I cultivate a more singular devotion to God that leads to decisive action and unwavering obedience?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse mean I should avoid all non-believers or people who make bad choices?**

Answer: No, this verse does not advocate for complete isolation from all non-believers or those who struggle with sin. The term "evildoers" (פֹּעֲלֵי אָוֶן, _po'alei aven'_) specifically refers to "workers of iniquity" or those whose lives are characterized by active, habitual wickedness, deliberate rebellion against God, and opposition to His ways. The Psalmist's intent is to separate from corrupting influences that would hinder his obedience to God, not to withdraw from the world entirely. Believers are called to be salt and light in the world ([Matthew 5:13-16](/matthew/5-13 "Matthew 5:13-16 - Salt and Light")), engaging with society, building relationships, and sharing the gospel, but always with discernment and spiritual integrity. The emphasis is on guarding one's heart and unwavering commitment to God's commands, ensuring that relationships do not lead one astray or compromise one's spiritual purity. It's about setting boundaries against active unrighteousness and destructive influences, not withdrawing from all human interaction or evangelistic opportunity.

**How does "keeping the commandments" relate to salvation by grace in the New Testament?**

Answer: In the New Testament, salvation is unequivocally presented as a gracious gift of God, received through faith in Jesus Christ, and not as a result of human works or adherence to the law ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith")). However, "keeping the commandments" in the Christian life is understood as a vital and natural response to that saving grace, not a means of earning it. Obedience flows from a transformed heart, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and serves as evidence of genuine faith and love for God ([John 14:15](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - If You Love Me, Keep My Commandments")). The Psalmist's fervent desire to keep God's commands reflects a heart aligned with God's will, which is precisely what God enables through the new covenant, where His law is written not on tablets of stone but on the hearts of His people ([Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant")). Thus, the commitment to obedience expressed in Psalms 119:115 beautifully foreshadows the Spirit-empowered obedience of the believer in Christ, where the divine law becomes a delight and a guide for a life lived in gratitude and devotion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 119:115 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential commandment-keeper, the only one who perfectly declared and lived out the resolve, "I will keep the commandments of my God," living a life utterly without sin and in complete, unbroken obedience to the Father's will ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest, Tempted Yet Sinless")). Furthermore, Jesus embodied the call to "depart from evildoers" not by physical isolation from sinners—for He famously ate with them and sought them out ([Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10-13 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus Eats with Sinners"))—but by His radical distinction from the world's values, systems of sin, and the spiritual darkness that permeates it. He called His disciples to be "in the world but not of the world," praying not that they would be taken out of the world, but that they would be kept from the evil one ([John 17:15-16](/john/17-15-16 "John 17:15-16 - Jesus' Prayer for His Disciples")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Christ not only bore the penalty for our failure to keep God's commands but also broke the enslaving power of sin, enabling us, by the indwelling Holy Spirit, to live lives of obedience that were utterly impossible on our own ([Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3-4 "Romans 8:3-4 - The Law Fulfilled in Christ")). Our ability to "depart from evildoers" and genuinely "keep the commandments of my God" is therefore entirely dependent on our union with Christ, who empowers us to walk in newness of life and pursue holiness, just as He is holy ([1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")). He is the divine source and unfailing strength of our separation unto God and our joyful obedience to His perfect will.

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

1 Corinthians 15:33

Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

Psalms 6:8

¶ Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping.

Matthew 7:23

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

Psalms 26:5

I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.

Psalms 119:106

¶ I have sworn, and I will perform [it], that I will keep thy righteous judgments.

Psalms 139:19

Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.

Matthew 25:41

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: