King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:150 Mean?

Psalms 119:150 in the King James Version says “They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.”

Psalms 119:150 · KJV

Context

148

Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word.

149

Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O LORD, quicken me according to thy judgment.

150

They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.

151

Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth.

152

Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever.

Read Psalms 119 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
They draw nigh that follow after mischief (קָרְבוּ רֹדְפֵי זִמָּה, qarevu rodefe zimmah)—Pursuers of wickedness (zimmah, lewdness, evil schemes) are approaching. They are far from thy law (מִתּוֹרָתְךָ רָחָקוּ, mi-toratka rachaqu)—The contrast is spatial and moral: proximity to evil corresponds with distance from Torah. Those near wickedness are far from God's instruction.

This verse describes the wicked's trajectory. Psalm 1:1 warns against walking in the counsel of the ungodly—the progressive movement toward sin and away from God. Romans 1:28 speaks of those who "did not like to retain God in their knowledge," resulting in a "reprobate mind." Distance from God's law is not neutral ground—it is the path toward destruction. Conversely, drawing near to God means drawing near to His Word (James 4:8).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

In Israel's history, periods of apostasy were marked by the rise of those who 'followed after mischief'—Baal worship, child sacrifice, injustice. The prophets confronted this pattern repeatedly (Jeremiah 2:5, 7:24).

Reflection Questions

  1. What is the relationship between the company you keep ('they draw nigh') and your proximity to or distance from God's law?
  2. How can you discern when you are drifting away from God's Word before reaching a crisis point?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
קָ֭רְבוּ1 of 5

“They draw nigh”

H7126

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

רֹדְפֵ֣י2 of 5

“that follow”

H7291

to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)

זִמָּ֑ה3 of 5

“after mischief”

H2154

a plan, especially a bad one

מִתּוֹרָתְךָ֥4 of 5

“from thy law”

H8451

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

רָחָֽקוּ׃5 of 5

“they are far”

H7368

to widen (in any direction), i.e., (intransitively) recede or (transitively) remove (literally or figuratively, of place or relation)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 119:150 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 119:150 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 27:2Proverbs 28:9Job 21:14Psalms 22:161 Samuel 23:162 Samuel 17:16

Test Your Knowledge

Psalms 119 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Psalms 119 with CommentaryAll Psalms ChaptersComplete Psalms QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes