Psalms 125:5

KJV

As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the LORD shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity: [but] peace [shall be] upon Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

As for such as turn aside {H5186} unto their crooked ways {H6128}, the LORD {H3068} shall lead them forth {H3212} with the workers {H6466} of iniquity {H205}: but peace {H7965} shall be upon Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But as for those who turn aside to their own crooked ways, may ADONAI turn them away, along with those who do evil. Shalom on Isra'el!

Berean Standard Bible

But those who turn to crooked ways the LORD will banish with the evildoers. Peace be upon Israel.

American Standard Version

But as for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, Jehovah will lead them forth with the workers of iniquity. Peace be upon Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 125:5 serves as a profound concluding statement within a "Song of Ascents," starkly delineating the ultimate destinies of two contrasting groups: those who deliberately deviate from God's righteous path and those who remain steadfast in their allegiance to Him. It functions as both a solemn warning of divine judgment for the unrighteous, who will be aligned with overt practitioners of wickedness, and a comforting promise of comprehensive peace and security for God's faithful covenant people, Israel, thereby underscoring the Lord's unwavering commitment to justice and His protective care for the upright.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 125 belongs to the collection known as the "Songs of Ascents" (Psalms 120-134), hymns traditionally sung by pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem for the annual festivals. The psalm opens with a powerful declaration of security for those who trust in the Lord, likening their steadfastness to the immovability of [Mount Zion](/psalms/125-1 "Psalms 125:1 - Those Who Trust in the Lord"). The preceding verses emphasize God's protective embrace around His people, assuring them that the "scepter of the wicked" will not permanently rest upon the land allotted to the righteous, lest the righteous themselves be tempted to turn to iniquity ([Psalms 125:3](/psalms/125-3 "Psalms 125:3 - The Scepter of the Wicked")). This assurance is followed by a heartfelt prayer for God's goodness to those who are good and upright in heart ([Psalms 125:4](/psalms/125-4 "Psalms 125:4 - Do Good, O Lord, to Those Who Are Good")). Therefore, verse 5 acts as a definitive concluding pronouncement, reinforcing the ultimate distinction God makes between the faithful and the unfaithful, and the just outcomes for each, bringing the psalm to a conclusive statement regarding divine justice and the promise of peace.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The backdrop for the "Songs of Ascents" is the ancient Israelite pilgrimage to Jerusalem, a journey often fraught with physical dangers but imbued with deep spiritual significance. Pilgrims would have been acutely aware of the geopolitical realities of their time, including the constant threat from hostile nations and the internal moral challenges within their own society. The concept of "peace" (Hebrew: _šālôm_) was profoundly significant, encompassing not merely the absence of conflict but a holistic state of well-being, prosperity, health, and security, intrinsically linked to God's covenant blessings upon His obedient people. Conversely, "crooked ways" would have been understood in direct opposition to the Mosaic Law, which prescribed a "straight" path of righteousness and obedience, contrasting sharply with the perverse practices of surrounding pagan cultures or the internal moral failings of Israelites who strayed from the covenant. The psalm reflects the enduring hope of God's people for divine intervention and the establishment of true justice in a world frequently marked by injustice.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalms 125 and the broader Psalter. Primarily, it highlights **Divine Justice and Retribution**, asserting that God will ultimately deal with those who deviate from His ways, aligning them with "workers of iniquity." This underscores God's moral governance of the world and the certainty of consequences for sin, a theme found throughout the Psalms (e.g., [the Lord judges the peoples](/psalms/7-8 "Psalms 7:8 - The Lord Judges the Peoples")). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Distinction Between the Righteous and the Wicked**, portraying two mutually exclusive destinies based on one's relationship with God and adherence to His path. This separation is a recurring motif in wisdom literature and prophetic writings (e.g., [the way of the wicked is crooked](/proverbs/2-15 "Proverbs 2:15 - The Way of the Wicked")). Finally, the verse culminates in the theme of **God's Covenant Peace and Protection** for His faithful people, "Israel." This "peace" (_šālôm_) is a comprehensive blessing, assuring God's steadfast love and security for those who remain loyal to Him, even amidst the presence of wickedness, echoing promises found in the Pentateuch and prophets (e.g., [I will grant peace in the land](/leviticus/26-6 "Leviticus 26:6 - I Will Grant Peace in the Land")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Crooked ways (Hebrew, _ʿăqalqal'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to bend" or "to twist," vividly describes paths that are winding, perverse, or morally corrupt. It stands in stark contrast to the straight, upright path of righteousness that God desires for His people. The word implies a deliberate deviation from the truth and integrity of God's commandments, suggesting a lifestyle characterized by moral perversion or deceit, rather than a simple mistake. It signifies a fundamental misalignment with divine standards.
* **Workers of iniquity (Hebrew, _pōʿălê ʼâven'_):** This phrase refers to those who systematically and habitually practice evil, mischief, or wickedness. The word "workers" (_pâʻal_) denotes active, consistent engagement in a particular activity, while "iniquity" (_ʼâven_) often signifies nothingness, trouble, or unrighteousness, frequently associated with idolatry or false worship. Thus, "workers of iniquity" are not merely those who commit occasional sins, but those whose actions are consistently characterized by active engagement in unrighteousness, making it their "work" or established practice. They are agents of moral corruption and injustice.
* **Peace (Hebrew, _shâlôwm'_):** Far more than just the absence of conflict, _shâlôwm_ is a profound and comprehensive Hebrew concept encompassing wholeness, completeness, well-being, prosperity, health, safety, and harmony. It signifies a state of flourishing and right relationship—with God, with others, and with oneself. In this context, _shâlôwm_ represents God's holistic blessing and security bestowed upon His faithful covenant people, a state of divine favor and protection that transcends worldly turmoil and ensures their ultimate flourishing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways":** This initial clause identifies a specific group of individuals—those who, despite potentially knowing or having been exposed to God's righteous path, choose to deviate from it. The verb "turn aside" (H5186, _nâṭâh_) implies a bending, inclining, or moral deflection away from the straight course. Their "crooked ways" are not accidental missteps but chosen paths of moral perversion and deviation from God's truth, indicating a deliberate and consistent pattern of unrighteous behavior. This group stands in opposition to those who walk uprightly.
* **"the LORD shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity":** This is a solemn declaration of divine judgment and consequence. The phrase "lead them forth" (H3212, _yâlak_) implies that God Himself will direct their destiny, aligning them with those who are openly and habitually wicked. It signifies that those who secretly or subtly "turn aside" will ultimately share the same fate and judgment as the most overt "workers of iniquity." Their chosen path of moral deviation leads them to a common, undesirable end with the ungodly, facing God's righteous retribution.
* **"[but] peace [shall be] upon Israel.":** This concluding phrase provides a stark and hopeful contrast to the preceding declaration of judgment. "Israel" here represents God's faithful covenant people—those who trust in Him and walk in His ways. Despite the judgment awaiting the wicked, God's promise of _shâlôwm_ (peace, wholeness, well-being) rests upon them. This is a divine blessing of security, prosperity, and spiritual flourishing, assuring the righteous of God's enduring favor, protection, and faithfulness to His covenant promises amidst the world's unrighteousness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message with clarity and impact. Most prominently, **Contrast** is used to highlight the distinct and opposing destinies of two groups: "such as turn aside unto their crooked ways" and "Israel." This antithetical presentation underscores the moral clarity of God's judgment and the binary nature of spiritual allegiance. This contrast is further emphasized through **Antithetical Parallelism**, where the second half of the verse ("but peace shall be upon Israel") directly opposes the negative outcome described in the first half for the unrighteous. The phrase "crooked ways" functions as a potent **Metaphor** for moral deviation and perverse conduct, vividly illustrating a departure from the "straight" path of God's righteousness. The use of "the LORD shall lead them forth" also carries a subtle **Irony**, as those who choose their own "crooked ways" are ultimately "led" by the Lord to a destiny they perhaps did not anticipate, but one that perfectly aligns with their chosen unrighteousness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 125:5 stands as a profound theological statement on divine justice, moral accountability, and God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people. It reinforces the biblical truth that God is not indifferent to human conduct; there are clear and distinct consequences for choosing to deviate from His righteous path. Those who subtly "turn aside" will ultimately be grouped with those who overtly practice wickedness, facing a shared destiny of judgment. This serves as a powerful warning against hypocrisy, spiritual complacency, or a gradual drift from God's standards, emphasizing that one's true allegiance is revealed by their consistent walk. Conversely, the verse offers immense comfort and assurance to the faithful, promising them God's comprehensive _shâlôwm_. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a deep, holistic well-being and security that flows from being in right relationship with God and remaining steadfast in His covenant. It underscores God's protective hand over His people and His commitment to their ultimate flourishing, even amidst the presence of wickedness in the world.

* [Proverbs 2:15](/proverbs/2-15 "Proverbs 2:15 - Whose paths are crooked, and who are devious in their ways")
* [Matthew 25:41](/matthew/25-41 "Matthew 25:41 - Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire")
* [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 125:5 compels us to honestly examine our own lives and allegiances before God. It challenges the dangerous notion that subtle deviations, private compromises with sin, or a gradual spiritual drift are inconsequential. The psalmist warns that even a slight "turning aside" from God's straight path can ultimately lead to being identified with those who actively practice iniquity, sharing in their judgment. This should stir us to vigilance, daily repentance, and a renewed, unwavering commitment to walking in integrity and obedience to God's Word. For those who strive to remain faithful, the verse offers profound comfort and assurance. It reminds us that despite the pervasive presence of evil in the world and the constant temptations to stray, God's promise of _shâlôwm_—His comprehensive peace, protection, and well-being—rests upon His true Israel, those who trust and obey Him. This peace is not dependent on fluctuating external circumstances but is a divine gift, a deep security found in His abiding presence and faithfulness. It encourages steadfastness, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in His hands, guarded by His perfect peace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what subtle ways might I be "turning aside unto my crooked ways" in my thoughts, words, or actions, perhaps without fully realizing the gravity of such deviations?**
* **How does the promise of God's "peace upon Israel" encourage and strengthen me to remain steadfast in my faith amidst life's challenges and the temptations to compromise?**
* **What practical, concrete steps can I take today to ensure my path aligns more closely and consistently with God's righteous ways, avoiding any form of spiritual drift?**

### FAQ
**What does "turn aside unto their crooked ways" mean in a modern context?**

Answer: In a modern context, "turning aside unto their crooked ways" refers to any deviation from God's moral and ethical standards, whether subtle or overt. This could include compromising one's integrity in business, engaging in dishonest practices, pursuing selfish desires at the expense of others, or adopting worldviews that contradict biblical truth. It speaks to a deliberate choice to walk a path that is not aligned with God's righteousness, even if it doesn't appear as overtly "wicked" as the actions of "workers of iniquity." It's a warning against spiritual drift, hypocrisy, or a gradual departure from the principles of faith and obedience. The Bible consistently calls believers to walk in a [straight path](/proverbs/4-25-27 "Proverbs 4:25-27 - Let Your Eyes Look Directly Forward") and to avoid the winding, deceptive ways of sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 125:5 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the perfect embodiment of the "straight path" and the bringer of true, eternal peace. While the psalm warns that those who "turn aside unto their crooked ways" will be led forth with "workers of iniquity," Jesus perfectly demonstrated the righteous path, declaring Himself to be "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus Is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). He came specifically to redeem humanity from their inherent "crooked ways" and to reconcile them to God, offering forgiveness and a new life of righteousness through His atoning sacrifice. His earthly ministry consistently exposed the hypocrisy of those who outwardly appeared righteous but inwardly walked in "crooked ways" ([Matthew 23:27-28](/matthew/23-27-28 "Matthew 23:27-28 - Woe to You, Scribes and Pharisees, Hypocrites!")), demonstrating that true righteousness is a matter of the heart. Furthermore, the judgment promised for "workers of iniquity" is ultimately fulfilled in Christ's role as the righteous Judge, who will separate the sheep from the goats, consigning the unrighteous to their just destiny ([Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31-46 "Matthew 25 - The Judgment of the Nations")). Most significantly, the promise of "peace upon Israel" finds its deepest and most expansive meaning in the _shâlôwm_ that Jesus offers to all who believe in Him, both Jew and Gentile, forming the new Israel of God. He is our peace ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - For He Himself Is Our Peace")), having broken down the dividing wall of hostility, and He bestows a peace that the world cannot give, a supernatural peace that guards our hearts and minds in Him ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Promise of Peace") and [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God, Which Surpasses All Understanding")). Thus, in Christ, the warning of judgment is upheld for those who reject Him, and the promise of peace is fully realized for all who are truly His.

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

Isaiah 59:8

The way of peace they know not; and [there is] no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.

Proverbs 2:15

Whose ways [are] crooked, and [they] froward in their paths:

Psalms 128:6

Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children, [and] peace upon Israel.

Psalms 40:4

Blessed [is] that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.

Galatians 6:16

And as many as walk according to this rule, peace [be] on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Psalms 101:3

I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; [it] shall not cleave to me.