Ye have shamed the counsel of the poor, because the LORD is his refuge.

PSALMS 14:6KJV
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Psalms 14:6 (KJV)

What does Psalms 14:6 mean?

Psalms 14:6 says that those who look down on or mock the advice and hopes of poor people are doing so because the poor trust in the LORD as their safe place. The verse highlights a contrast between people who scorn the vulnerable and the faith that the vulnerable have in God as their protector.

The psalm is written by David, speaking about people who act wickedly and disregard God. In this verse, David points out that the poor are often shamed or dismissed by others, not because of anything wrong they have done, but because their confidence is in the LORD. The verse sets up a picture of trust: while some rely on their own strength or mock those with little, the poor find their security in God.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 14:6

  • "shamed" (בּוּשׁ, bosh): This word means to put to shame or humiliate. Here, it shows that the poor are not just ignored but actively disgraced or belittled by others.
  • "counsel" (עֵצָה, etsah): This word refers to advice, plans, or hopes. The verse suggests that the poor have their own wisdom or hopes, which others treat with contempt.
  • "poor" (עָנִי, ani): This word often means someone who is afflicted, humble, or oppressed, not just financially poor. It highlights vulnerability and dependence.
  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a covenant relationship.
  • "refuge" (מַחֲסֶה, machaseh): This means a shelter or safe place. The verse stresses that the poor look to God as their ultimate safety, even when others mock them for it.

Why Psalms 14:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the shame directed at the poor is not about their character or choices, but about their trust in God, which others do not understand or respect.
  • It highlights a theme running through the psalm: the difference between those who ignore God and those who rely on Him, especially among the vulnerable.
  • The verse connects to the wider message of Psalms 14, which contrasts human arrogance and godlessness with humble faith in God as a refuge.