Psalms 119:21

KJV

¶ Thou hast rebuked the proud [that are] cursed, which do err from thy commandments.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou hast rebuked {H1605} the proud {H2086} that are cursed {H779}, which do err {H7686} from thy commandments {H4687}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You rebuke the proud, the cursed, who stray from your mitzvot.

Berean Standard Bible

You rebuke the arrogant— the cursed who stray from Your commandments.

American Standard Version

Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, That do wander from thy commandments.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 119:21 declares God's decisive and authoritative judgment against those who proudly disregard His divine will, highlighting a fundamental principle of biblical justice: the Almighty actively opposes the arrogant who presumptuously deviate from His perfect law. This verse underscores the severe consequences awaiting those whose pride leads them to rebellion against divine authority, contrasting sharply with the psalmist's deep devotion to God's commandments.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the expansive [Psalm 119](/psalms/119 "Psalm 119 - The Longest Psalm, Celebrating God's Law"), the longest psalm in the biblical canon, renowned for its acrostic structure and singular focus on the praise and importance of God's Word—His law, statutes, precepts, and commandments. The psalmist, throughout this monumental chapter, expresses profound love, longing, and devotion for God's instruction, consistently contrasting his own desire for humble obedience with the actions of the wicked, the arrogant, or "the proud." Verse 21 specifically falls within the Gimel section (verses 17-24), where the psalmist appeals to God for grace, understanding, and divine intervention to keep him from straying, implicitly acknowledging the ever-present danger of departing from the path of righteousness and the destructive nature of those who do. The psalmist's plea for God to "deal bountifully with thy servant" ([Psalms 119:17](/psalms/119-17 "Psalm 119:17 - Deal Bountifully With Your Servant")) and to "open thou mine eyes" ([Psalms 119:18](/psalms/119-18 "Psalm 119:18 - Open My Eyes to Your Law")) sets the stage for the contrast with those who, in their pride, reject such divine illumination and guidance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the Law (Torah) was not merely a set of rules but the very foundation of the nation's covenant relationship with God. It was given at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - God's Covenant at Sinai") as a divine gift, intended to guide the people into a life of blessing, holiness, and distinction among the nations. Obedience to the Torah was intrinsically linked to national prosperity and individual well-being, while disobedience carried explicit warnings of curses and judgment, as detailed in passages like [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). The concept of "pride" (Hebrew: _zedim_) in this context refers not just to a haughty attitude but to a presumptuous, defiant rebellion against God's established order and His revealed will. Such pride was seen as a grave offense, directly challenging divine authority and undermining the very fabric of the covenant community. The cultural expectation was one of humble submission to YHWH's commands, recognizing His absolute sovereignty.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 119 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Divine Rebuke of Pride**, asserting God's active and unwavering opposition to arrogance that manifests as rebellion against His authority. The very act of God "rebuking" (Hebrew: _ga'ar_) suggests a strong, authoritative correction, indicating God's direct and indignant opposition to such pride, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, as seen in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction") and affirmed in the New Testament where [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Resists the Proud") states, "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble." Secondly, the verse illuminates **The Nature of the "Proud"**, identifying them not merely as haughty individuals but as those who are presumptuous, insolent, and act with deliberate defiance against God's commands. Their pride manifests as a refusal to submit to divine authority, leading them to "err from thy commandments." Thirdly, the verse underscores the **Consequences of Disobedience**. The phrase "cursed, which do err from thy commandments" emphasizes the severe spiritual and practical repercussions of straying from God's path. Being "cursed" (Hebrew: _arurim_) implies being cut off from God's blessings and favor, experiencing divine disapproval, and facing adverse outcomes for their rebellion, contrasting sharply with the promised blessings for those who [delight in the law of the Lord](/psalms/1-2 "Psalm 1:2 - The Blessedness of God's Law").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **rebuked (Hebrew, _ga'ar'_):** This verb signifies a strong, authoritative reprimand, often accompanied by indignation or a forceful warning. It implies God's direct, active opposition and judgment against the proud, rather than passive disapproval. It suggests a divine intervention to correct or restrain, highlighting God's sovereign control and His intolerance for defiance.
* **proud (Hebrew, _zedim'_):** More than simple arrogance or haughtiness, _zedim_ refers to those who are presumptuous, insolent, and act with deliberate, defiant rebellion against God's commands. It describes a person who, in their self-sufficiency, intentionally oversteps boundaries and despises divine authority, acting with a high hand.
* **cursed (Hebrew, _arurim'_):** This term denotes a state of being under a curse, implying alienation from divine blessing, favor, and protection. It signifies a pronouncement of divine disapproval and the resulting adverse consequences, often involving separation from the life-giving presence of God and exposure to hardship or judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou hast rebuked the proud":** This opening clause declares God's active and authoritative judgment. The "Thou" refers directly to God, emphasizing His personal involvement in confronting and correcting those who exhibit defiant arrogance. It is a declaration of divine justice against human rebellion.
* **"[that are] cursed":** This phrase describes the inherent spiritual state and consequence for those identified as "the proud." Their pride and rebellion place them under a divine curse, signifying a separation from God's favor and an experience of His disapproval. This is not merely a future punishment but a present reality for those in defiance.
* **"which do err from thy commandments":** This final clause specifies the nature of the "proud" and the reason for their cursed state: their deliberate deviation from God's revealed will. Their pride manifests as a refusal to submit to divine instruction, leading them to stray from the path of righteousness and into a state of spiritual peril.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Antithesis** is implicitly present, contrasting the psalmist's humble devotion to God's law, which permeates Psalm 119, with the proud's defiant departure from it. This creates a stark moral and spiritual dichotomy. The phrase "Thou hast rebuked" employs a form of **divine anthropomorphism**, attributing a human-like action (rebuking) to God, thereby making His active engagement and righteous indignation more relatable and impactful. Furthermore, the verse functions as a statement of **consequence**, establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship: pride leads to erring from God's commandments, which in turn results in being cursed. This reinforces the biblical principle that actions have divine repercussions. The use of the strong, definitive past tense "hast rebuked" also lends a sense of **divine certainty and finality** to God's judgment against the proud.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 119:21 profoundly articulates God's unwavering commitment to justice and holiness, revealing His active opposition to human pride and rebellion. Theologically, it underscores that God is not a passive observer of human conduct but an engaged sovereign who holds humanity accountable to His divine standards. Pride, in this context, is not merely a character flaw but a direct affront to God's authority, leading to a state of being "cursed" – alienated from His blessing and favor. This verse reinforces the biblical truth that true wisdom and blessing are found in humble submission to God's Word, while defiant disobedience leads to divine judgment. It serves as a stark reminder that God's moral order is immutable and that His righteous character necessitates a response to those who willfully transgress His commandments.

* [Proverbs 16:5](/proverbs/16-5 "Proverbs 16:5 - The Proud Are an Abomination")
* [Isaiah 2:12](/isaiah/2-12 "Isaiah 2:12 - The Day of the Lord Against the Proud")
* [Romans 1:21](/romans/1-21 "Romans 1:21-25 - The Consequences of Suppressing Truth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 119:21 serves as a timeless warning and a profound call to introspection for believers today. It compels us to examine our hearts for any vestiges of pride that might lead us to disregard or deviate from God's revealed will. Recognizing that God actively rebukes the proud should cultivate in us a deep humility, a posture of constant dependence on His grace, and a fervent desire to align our lives with His perfect commandments. Our obedience is not merely a duty but a reflection of our love and submission to the One who knows what is truly good for us. This verse reminds us that straying from God's Word, whether through intentional rebellion or subtle neglect, carries significant spiritual consequences, potentially leading to a state alienated from His richest blessings. Therefore, we are called to diligently study, meditate upon, and apply God's Word, allowing it to be the lamp to our feet and the light to our path, ensuring that our steps remain firm on the way of righteousness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does pride manifest in my own life, particularly in my attitude towards God's commandments?**
* **What specific areas of my life might indicate a subtle "erring from thy commandments," and how can I address them with humility?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper love and devotion to God's Word, ensuring it guides my decisions and actions daily?**
* **In what ways does understanding God's righteous judgment against the proud deepen my appreciation for His grace and mercy?**

### FAQ

**What does "rebuked" mean in this context, and how does God "rebuke" the proud?**

Answer: In Psalms 119:21, "rebuked" (Hebrew: _ga'ar_) signifies God's authoritative, often indignant, correction and opposition. It's not a mere suggestion but a declaration of divine disapproval and active judgment. God "rebukes" the proud through various means: sometimes through direct pronouncements in His Word, sometimes through the natural consequences of their sin, through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, or even through historical events and the downfall of arrogant individuals or nations. His rebuke is a manifestation of His justice and His commitment to upholding His holy standards.

**Who exactly are "the proud" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: "The proud" (Hebrew: _zedim_) in this context refers to those who are characterized by presumptuous, deliberate rebellion against God's revealed will and commandments. They are not simply arrogant in disposition but act with insolence and defiance, intentionally straying from God's path. Their pride leads them to believe they are above divine authority or that they know better than God, resulting in a willful disregard for His law. This is a more severe form of pride than mere haughtiness; it speaks to a rebellious heart.

**How does this verse, which speaks of God rebuking and cursing, reconcile with God's love and mercy?**

Answer: While seemingly harsh, God's rebuke of the proud and their cursed state is an act of His righteous governance, not a contradiction of His love. It underscores His holiness and the seriousness of sin, particularly defiant rebellion against His revealed truth. God's justice is an expression of His perfect character, which cannot tolerate unrepentant sin. His rebukes serve to uphold His truth, protect His covenant people, and ultimately, call individuals to repentance. Even in judgment, there is an implicit invitation to turn from pride and embrace humility, which is the path to receiving His grace and mercy, as seen in [1 Peter 5:5](/1_peter/5-5 "1 Peter 5:5 - God Resists the Proud, Gives Grace to the Humble").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 119:21, with its declaration of God rebuking the proud who err from His commandments and are cursed, finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Humanity, in its fallen state, is inherently proud, consistently erring from God's perfect commandments and consequently living under a spiritual curse, alienated from His life-giving presence, as described in [Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned"). Jesus, however, stands in stark contrast to the "proud" of this verse. He is the perfectly humble and obedient Son, who never erred from His Father's commandments but perfectly fulfilled the Law in every detail ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). Furthermore, the curse pronounced upon those who err from the Law was fully borne by Christ on the cross. [Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeemed Us From the Curse") powerfully declares, "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us." Through His sacrificial death, Jesus absorbed the divine rebuke and the curse that was due to humanity's pride and disobedience, thereby making a way for us to be reconciled to God. In Christ, those who were once proud and cursed can now receive grace and forgiveness, and through the indwelling Holy Spirit, are empowered to walk in humble obedience to God's commandments, fulfilling the very desire of the psalmist ([Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3 "Romans 8:3-4 - Law Fulfilled in Us by the Spirit")).

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 Peter 5:5

¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Psalms 119:10

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

Psalms 119:118

¶ Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit [is] falsehood.

Luke 18:14

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified [rather] than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Malachi 4:1

¶ For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.

Luke 14:11

For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Deuteronomy 30:19

I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, [that] I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: