King James Version
What Does Psalms 123:4 Mean?
“Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud .”
Psalms 123:4 · KJV
Context
2
Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us.
3
Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us: for we are exceedingly filled with contempt.
4
Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud .
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe source of contempt is identified: 'Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud.' The word 'soul' (nephesh) represents the whole person - the mockery has penetrated deeply, affecting emotions, thoughts, and will. Two groups oppress: 'those that are at ease' (comfortable, prosperous, secure in their position) and 'the proud' (arrogant, self-exalting). The 'at ease' represent those who mock from positions of comfort, undisturbed by the suffering they observe or cause. The 'proud' actively exalt themselves while despising others. Both groups share self-sufficiency - they need neither God nor others. Their contempt flows from supposing themselves superior. The doubled description ('scorning' and 'contempt') emphasizes the relentlessness of mockery. The psalm ends without resolution, mirroring the incomplete nature of vindication in this age. The abrupt ending drives the worshiper upward toward God, the only source of relief.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Israel's history included periods of oppression by proud, comfortable enemies - Assyria, Babylon, Edom, and other nations that mocked God's people and God Himself. The prophets repeatedly addressed this contempt (Zephaniah 2:8-10). The pattern continues in Christian experience - believers face mockery from those comfortable in sin and proud in self-sufficiency.
Reflection Questions
- Why are 'those at ease' and 'the proud' particularly contemptuous toward God's people?
- How does contempt from comfortable, proud people affect believers differently than other forms of opposition?
- What does this psalm teach about how to handle mockery and scorn?
- How did Jesus face contempt from both comfortable religious leaders and proud Roman authorities?
- In what ways might believers inadvertently become 'at ease' and 'proud,' showing contempt toward others?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsלָּ֪הּ3 of 8
H0נַ֫פְשֵׁ֥נוּ4 of 8
“Our soul”
H5315properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
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 123:4 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 123:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge