Psalms 119:51

KJV

¶ The proud have had me greatly in derision: [yet] have I not declined from thy law.

KJV (with Strong's)

The proud {H2086} have had me greatly {H3966} in derision {H3887}: yet have I not declined {H5186} from thy law {H8451}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Though the arrogant scorn me completely, I have not turned away from your Torah.

Berean Standard Bible

The arrogant utterly deride me, but I do not turn from Your law.

American Standard Version

The proud have had me greatly in derision: Yethave I not swerved from thy law.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 119:51 profoundly expresses the psalmist's unwavering commitment to God's law, even when subjected to intense and pervasive ridicule from the arrogant. It vividly portrays a deep-seated fidelity to divine truth that transcends social pressure and personal suffering, showcasing the steadfastness of a righteous heart in the face of worldly contempt and active opposition to God's revealed will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 119 stands as the Bible's longest chapter, an intricately structured acrostic poem that meticulously extols the supreme value, wisdom, and sufficiency of God's Word. Organized into 22 stanzas, each corresponding to a letter of the Hebrew alphabet and comprising eight verses that begin with that letter, the psalm is a sustained and passionate meditation on the multifaceted nature of God's law, referred to by various synonyms such as statutes, precepts, commandments, testimonies, and judgments. Psalms 119:51, specifically, is situated within the 'Kaph' section (verses 49-56), a segment that frequently juxtaposes the psalmist's personal affliction, suffering, and longing for divine comfort with his profound hope and unwavering reliance on God's commandments. Throughout this section, the psalmist consistently articulates his dependence on God's promises and his desire for salvation, even as he endures the scorn of the proud, reinforcing the overarching theme that God's Word remains his singular source of life, comfort, and unwavering guidance amidst a world often hostile to righteousness and divine truth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While Psalms 119 does not reference a specific historical event, it powerfully reflects the universal experience of a devout Israelite living under the Mosaic Law. The "proud" (Hebrew: `zêdîm`, from H2086) represent a recurring archetype throughout biblical wisdom literature and prophetic writings: individuals characterized by their arrogance, self-sufficiency, and open disregard for God's authority, who actively mock and oppress those who earnestly seek to obey His commands. In ancient Israelite society, adherence to the Torah was the defining mark of faithfulness and covenant loyalty, while deviation from it was considered rebellion against Yahweh. Therefore, to be mocked for one's devotion to God's law was not merely a form of social ostracism but a profound spiritual assault, challenging the very foundation of one's identity and relationship with God. The psalmist's steadfastness in the face of such intense derision underscores the counter-cultural nature of true piety, where divine approval and covenant fidelity far outweigh human scorn or worldly acceptance.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 119:51 contributes significantly to several overarching themes present within the psalm and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it powerfully exemplifies **Steadfastness Amidst Scorn**, showcasing the psalmist's resolute determination to adhere to God's law despite intense mockery. This highlights the strength of conviction that God's Word is inherently true and worthy of obedience, regardless of social pressure or personal cost. Secondly, the verse illuminates **The Nature of the Proud**, depicting them as arrogant, insolent individuals who openly defy divine authority and actively scorn those who pursue righteousness, a theme consistently echoed in Scripture, such as in [Proverbs 21:24](/proverbs/21-24 "Proverbs 21:24 - The Scornful Proud Man"). Thirdly, it underscores the **Unwavering Devotion to God's Law**, emphasizing that despite temptations to compromise or yield to ridicule, the psalmist declares, "I have not declined from thy law." This affirms the enduring power and vital importance of God's Word as the believer's anchor and guide, a commitment celebrated throughout [Psalms 119](/psalms/119 "Psalms 119 - The Glory of God's Law"). Finally, the verse implicitly acknowledges **The Reality of Persecution for Righteousness**, a consistent biblical truth, as seen in passages like [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness"), which states that all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Proud (Hebrew, _zêd'_):** This term (זֵד, H2086), derived from the root `zûd`, refers to individuals characterized by arrogance, insolence, and presumptuousness. It denotes a deliberate, defiant, and often contemptuous attitude toward God's commands and those who obey them. Unlike mere ignorance, `zêd` implies a willful and open rebellion against divine authority, often accompanied by a sense of self-righteous superiority over the humble and obedient. Their "pride" is not merely an internal disposition but manifests in active scorn and opposition towards the righteous.
* **Derision (Hebrew, _lûwts'_):** The KJV translates the phrase "have had me greatly in derision" from the Hebrew root `lûwts` (לּוּץ, H3887), which means to scoff, mock, or treat with contempt. The accompanying adverb `mᵉʼôd` (מְאֹד, H3966), meaning "greatly" or "vehemently," intensifies the mockery, conveying an intense, persistent, and overwhelming ridicule. It's not just casual teasing but deep, wounding, and aggressive scorn aimed at undermining the psalmist's faith and resolve, characteristic of those who reject divine wisdom.
* **Declined (Hebrew, _nâṭâh'_):** The verb `nâṭâh` (נָטָה, H5186) means to stretch out, incline, turn aside, or deviate. In the negative ("not declined"), it powerfully conveys the idea of not swerving, deviating, or turning away from God's prescribed path or law. It speaks to an unyielding commitment, a steadfast refusal to compromise or abandon one's principles despite external pressure. This word choice emphasizes the psalmist's intentional and disciplined adherence to God's Word, portraying an unshakeable resolve.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The proud have had me greatly in derision":** This opening clause establishes the external conflict and the source of the psalmist's suffering. The "proud" are identified as the antagonists, actively engaged in a campaign of intense mockery and scorn against the psalmist. Their derision is not trivial but "greatly," indicating a severe and pervasive experience of contempt. This highlights the social and emotional cost of faithfulness, as those who reject God's ways often lash out at those who embrace them, seeking to undermine their resolve and commitment.
* **"[yet] have I not declined from thy law":** This second clause presents the psalmist's resolute and defiant response to the intense pressure. The implied adversative conjunction "yet" (often supplied in English translations) creates a powerful contrast between the actions of the proud and the psalmist's unwavering commitment. Despite the severe derision, the psalmist declares an absolute refusal to "decline" or turn away from God's law. This signifies not just passive endurance but active, steadfast obedience, affirming the law as his ultimate authority, comfort, and guide, even when adherence to it brings him into direct conflict with the world.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Contrast** and **Steadfastness as a Motif**. A stark **Contrast** is drawn between the actions of "the proud" and the psalmist's response. The proud engage in "derision," an act of rebellion and contempt, while the psalmist responds with unwavering obedience, refusing to "decline from thy law." This highlights the fundamental difference between those who reject God's authority and those who embrace it, emphasizing the moral and spiritual chasm between them. The psalmist's refusal to "declined" also establishes **Steadfastness** as a central motif, portraying a character defined by unyielding loyalty to divine truth, even under severe duress. This steadfastness is not merely passive resistance but an active, intentional commitment that serves as a testament to the law's inherent worth and the psalmist's deep conviction. Furthermore, the use of "greatly" (מְאֹד, `mᵉʼôd`) to qualify "derision" contains an element of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of the scorn to magnify the psalmist's subsequent, even more impressive, and resolute steadfastness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 119:51 deeply resonates with the pervasive biblical theme of righteousness enduring persecution. It profoundly underscores that faithfulness to God's revealed will often provokes hostility and scorn from those who reject divine authority and live in self-willed pride. The psalmist’s steadfastness in the face of derision is a powerful testament to the transformative and sustaining power of God’s Word, which provides the inner strength and moral fortitude to resist external pressures to compromise or abandon one's convictions. This verse teaches that true devotion is not contingent on social approval or ease, but is rooted in an unshakeable conviction about the eternal truth, goodness, and sufficiency of God's law—a conviction that enables believers to find comfort, direction, and unwavering purpose even when scorned by a hostile world. It affirms that the path of obedience, though sometimes difficult and costly, is ultimately the path of integrity, divine blessing, and ultimate vindication.

* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted")
* [1 Peter 4:16](/1_peter/4-16 "1 Peter 4:16 - Suffering as a Christian")
* [Romans 8:35-39](/romans/8-35-39 "Romans 8:35-39 - God's Unfailing Love")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a contemporary world that often mocks biblical values, traditional morality, and genuine, uncompromising faith, Psalms 119:51 offers profound encouragement and a vital challenge to every believer. Christians frequently encounter subtle or overt derision for their commitment to Christ, their moral stances on societal issues, or their adherence to scriptural truth in daily life. This verse calls us to cultivate an inner resolve, finding our stability and guidance not in popular opinion, fleeting cultural trends, or the ephemeral approval of the crowd, but in the eternal, unchanging truth of God's commands. Like the psalmist, our response to scorn should be an unwavering devotion to God's law, recognizing that true faithfulness is demonstrated not in times of ease and affirmation, but precisely when our convictions are tested and ridiculed. It invites us to deeply consider the ultimate source of our identity and validation: is it from human praise and acceptance, or from God's infallible Word and His approval? Embracing this steadfastness allows us to stand firm, knowing that our ultimate reward and vindication come from the Lord, not from a world that often rejects Him and His ways.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you feel pressure, mockery, or derision for your commitment to God's Word and biblical principles?**
* **How does the psalmist's resolute response in this verse challenge your natural inclination to compromise, seek approval, or avoid conflict?**
* **What practical steps can you take to strengthen your resolve to "not decline from thy law" when faced with scorn or opposition?**
* **How does remembering God's sovereignty, His ultimate justice, and His unfailing love help you endure ridicule for your faith?**

### FAQ
**Who are "the proud" mentioned in this verse, and why do they mock the psalmist?**

Answer: "The proud" (Hebrew: `zêdîm`, H2086) refer to those who are arrogant, insolent, and presumptuous, characterized by a willful disregard for God's authority and His law. They mock the psalmist because his steadfast obedience to God's commands stands as a silent, yet powerful, rebuke to their own rebellious and self-sufficient way of life. Their derision is a manifestation of their hostility towards God and anyone who truly seeks to follow Him, as seen in other passages that describe the wicked's opposition to the righteous (e.g., [Psalms 10:4](/psalms/10-4 "Psalms 10:4 - The Wicked's Arrogance")).

**What does it mean to "not decline from thy law"?**

Answer: To "not decline from thy law" means to steadfastly adhere to God's commands, principles, and revealed will without deviation, compromise, or turning away. It signifies an unyielding commitment to obedience, even when faced with significant external pressure, ridicule, or suffering. It's an active, intentional choice to remain faithful to God's truth, making it the ultimate standard for one's life, regardless of the cost or the world's opposition. This unwavering commitment is a hallmark of true discipleship, as exemplified by those who build their lives on the solid foundation of God's words ([Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24-27 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")).

**How can believers today maintain steadfastness when facing derision for their faith?**

Answer: Maintaining steadfastness requires a deep root in God's Word and a reliance on the Holy Spirit. Firstly, immerse yourself in Scripture daily, allowing it to be your ultimate guide and source of truth, just as the psalmist did. Secondly, cultivate a strong and consistent prayer life, seeking God's strength, wisdom, and comfort. Thirdly, surround yourself with a supportive community of believers who can encourage, uphold, and pray for you. Fourthly, remember and meditate on the example of Christ, who endured far greater scorn and opposition for our sake ([Hebrews 12:2-3](/hebrews/12-2-3 "Hebrews 12:2-3 - Looking to Jesus")). Finally, fix your eyes on the eternal reward and the approval of God, understanding that His commendation far outweighs the temporary derision of the world ([2 Corinthians 4:17-18](/2_corinthians/4-17-18 "2 Corinthians 4:17-18 - Eternal Glory Outweighs Suffering")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 119:51 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The psalmist's experience of being "greatly in derision" yet not declining from God's law perfectly foreshadows the earthly life of Christ. Jesus, the Son of God and the embodiment of perfect righteousness, faced unparalleled scorn and mockery from the proud religious leaders and a world hostile to God's truth, who vehemently rejected His divine authority and perfect obedience. From His humble birth to His agonizing death, He was consistently reviled, mocked, and ridiculed, precisely as prophesied in passages like [Psalms 22:6-7](/psalms/22-6-7 "Psalms 22:6-7 - A Reproach of Men"). Yet, despite this intense and relentless derision, Jesus never once "declined from thy law." He perfectly fulfilled every jot and tittle of the Law, living a life of impeccable and unwavering obedience to His Father's will ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). His steadfastness culminated in His obedience unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")), where He endured the ultimate scorn and suffering to redeem humanity from sin. For believers, Christ's perfect obedience and steadfast endurance in the face of derision provide both the supreme pattern and the divine power for their own faithfulness. Through union with Him, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to stand firm against the world's scorn, knowing that our strength to "not decline from thy law" comes from the one who perfectly embodied it and triumphed over all opposition ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Overcoming the World")).

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

Job 23:11

My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined.

Jeremiah 20:7

¶ O LORD, thou hast deceived me, and I was deceived: thou art stronger than I, and hast prevailed: I am in derision daily, every one mocketh me.

Psalms 44:18

Our heart is not turned back, neither have our steps declined from thy way;

Psalms 119:157

¶ Many [are] my persecutors and mine enemies; [yet] do I not decline from thy testimonies.

Acts 20:23

Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

Acts 20:24

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

Hebrews 12:1

¶ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,