Psalms 119:163 (KJV)

What does Psalms 119:163 mean?

Psalms 119:163 expresses a strong rejection of lying and a deep affection for God’s law. The writer declares that he hates and utterly despises falsehood, but he loves the instruction and guidance found in God’s teachings.

The verse is spoken by the psalmist, traditionally understood to be someone devoted to God, expressing personal values in prayer or meditation. This statement comes in the context of Psalm 119, a long poem where the writer repeatedly contrasts love for God’s commands with rejection of evil. The verse highlights the psalmist’s clear moral stance: truthfulness and devotion to God’s ways are central to his life.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 119:163

• "hate" (שָׂנֵא, sane): This word means to have a strong aversion or intense dislike. The psalmist is not indifferent to lying; he is firmly opposed to it.
• "abhor" (תָּעַב, taʿav): This word adds even more intensity, suggesting deep loathing or disgust. The psalmist’s reaction to lying is not just negative but deeply emotional.
• "lying" (שֶׁקֶר, sheqer): This word refers to falsehood, deception, or anything untrue. The psalmist singles out dishonesty as something especially detestable.
• "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah): This word means instruction, teaching, or law. The psalmist’s love is not just for rules but for God’s guidance as a whole.
• "love" (אָהַב, ahev): This word means to have deep affection or delight. The psalmist’s feelings for God’s law are warm and wholehearted, not just dutiful.

Why Psalms 119:163 matters

• The verse clarifies that the psalmist’s love for God’s law is not just about following rules but is tied to a deep moral conviction against dishonesty.
• The strong language for both hate and love shows that the writer’s values are not lukewarm; he is passionate about both rejecting falsehood and embracing God’s guidance.
• In the wider context of Psalm 119, this verse helps show that devotion to God’s word shapes the psalmist’s entire outlook on right and wrong, not just religious observance.