King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:22 Mean?

Psalms 119:22 in the King James Version says “Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies.”

Psalms 119:22 · KJV

Context

20

My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times.

21

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

22

Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies.

23

Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.

24

Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors . my counsellors: Heb. men of my counsel

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies. The psalmist prays for vindication from social shame. Remove (gal, גַּל) means to roll away, like rolling a stone from a well. Reproach (cherpah, חֶרְפָּה) is disgrace or scorn, while contempt (buz, בּוּז) is disdain or derision. The psalmist suffers social rejection and public mockery, likely because of his commitment to God's Word in a hostile environment.

The for clause provides the basis for his appeal: I have kept thy testimonies (edotekha natsarti, עֵדֹתֶיךָ נָצָרְתִּי). Natsar (נָצַר) means to guard, watch over, preserve carefully. The psalmist's suffering results from obedience, not sin. This anticipates Jesus' teaching that faithful disciples will face reproach (Matthew 5:11) and Paul's reminder that 'all who will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution' (2 Timothy 3:12). Yet Christ bore ultimate reproach (Hebrews 13:13), and God promises to vindicate His faithful servants.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Reproach and contempt were particularly painful in honor-shame cultures where social standing was paramount. The righteous frequently faced mockery for their devotion (Nehemiah 2:19, Jeremiah 20:7-8). The psalmist's appeal for vindication reflects confidence in God's justice, trusting that temporary social shame will give way to eternal honor for those who remain faithful despite opposition.

Reflection Questions

  1. When has obedience to God's Word brought you reproach or contempt from others?
  2. How do you respond when following Scripture makes you a social outcast or object of ridicule?
  3. What comfort do you find in knowing that Christ bore reproach and promises to vindicate His faithful people?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
גַּ֣ל1 of 7

“Remove”

H1556

to roll (literally or figuratively)

מֵֽ֭עָלַי2 of 7
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

חֶרְפָּ֣ה3 of 7

“from me reproach”

H2781

contumely, disgrace, the pudenda

וָב֑וּז4 of 7

“and contempt”

H937

disrespect

כִּ֖י5 of 7
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

עֵדֹתֶ֣יךָ6 of 7

“thy testimonies”

H5713

testimony

נָצָֽרְתִּי׃7 of 7

“for I have kept”

H5341

to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)

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 119:22 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 119:22 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 39:8Psalms 119:391 Peter 2:201 Peter 3:16-171 Peter 4:14-16Job 16:20

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