King James Version

What Does Psalms 141:6 Mean?

Psalms 141:6 in the King James Version says “When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words; for they are sweet.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 141 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words; for they are sweet.”

Psalms 141:6 · KJV

Context

4

Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.

5

Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities. me; it shall be a: or, let the rigteous smite mee kindly, and reprove me; let not their precious oil break my head, etc

6

When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words; for they are sweet.

7

Our bones are scattered at the grave's mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth wood upon the earth.

8

But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute. leave: Heb. make not my soul bare

Read Psalms 141 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse contains striking imagery of judgment and vindication. The Hebrew verb "overthrown" (shamat) means to be cast down or dashed to pieces, suggesting violent divine judgment upon corrupt judges. The phrase "in stony places" (yede-sela, literally "hands of rock") evokes imagery of judges being hurled from cliffs, a known form of execution in the ancient world.

The contrast is powerful: after the wicked judges fall, people will "hear my words"—the psalmist's words of righteousness previously ignored. The description "for they are sweet" (na'emu) indicates pleasant, agreeable words that will finally be appreciated after justice is done.

This verse reflects the biblical theme that truth may be rejected in times of corruption but will ultimately be vindicated. The "sweetness" of righteous words stands in stark contrast to the bitterness of unjust judgment. The imagery suggests that only when corrupt authority is removed can truth be properly heard and valued.

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Historical & Cultural Context

David likely composed this psalm during a time of persecution, possibly when fleeing from Saul or during Absalom's rebellion. In ancient Israel, judges held tremendous power and often sat at city gates to render verdicts. Corrupt judges were a recurring problem, condemned by prophets like Isaiah and Amos.

The "stony places" reference would have resonated with an ancient audience familiar with rocky terrain and cliff-side executions. Archaeological evidence from ancient Israel shows numerous high places and rocky outcrops used for both worship and execution. The psalm reflects David's confidence that God would vindicate him and overthrow those who twisted justice. This confidence was rooted in the covenant promise that God would establish His king and judge the wicked.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean for righteous words to be 'sweet' to those who previously rejected them?
  2. How does God's judgment of corrupt authorities vindicate those who speak truth?
  3. Why might the psalmist use such violent imagery to describe the downfall of judges?
  4. In what ways can we maintain integrity when corrupt authorities reject our witness?
  5. How does this verse encourage patience in waiting for God's vindication?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
נִשְׁמְט֣וּ1 of 8

“are overthrown”

H8058

to fling down; incipiently to jostle; figuratively, to let alone, desist, remit

בִֽידֵי2 of 8

“places”

H3027

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

סֶ֭לַע3 of 8

“in stony”

H5553

a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress)

שֹׁפְטֵיהֶ֑ם4 of 8

“When their judges”

H8199

to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal

וְשָׁמְע֥וּ5 of 8

“they shall hear”

H8085

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

אֲ֝מָרַ֗י6 of 8

“my words”

H561

something said

כִּ֣י7 of 8
H3588

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

נָעֵֽמוּ׃8 of 8

“for they are sweet”

H5276

to be agreeable (literally or figuratively)

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 141:6 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 141:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 25:121 Samuel 31:1-81 Chronicles 10:1-71 Chronicles 11:1-32 Samuel 23:12 Samuel 1:17-27

Test Your Knowledge

Psalms 141 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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