Psalms 26:10 (KJV)

What does Psalms 26:10 mean?

Psalms 26:10 describes people whose actions are corrupt and dishonest, saying their hands are involved in wrongdoing and their right hands are full of bribes. The verse points out the moral failings of certain people, highlighting their involvement in schemes and their willingness to accept money for unjust purposes.

In this psalm, David is speaking to God and contrasting himself with those who do evil. David is asking God to judge him fairly, and he describes the kind of people he wants to avoid—those who use their power for harm and are open to bribery. The verse gives a concrete picture of the kind of corruption David is distancing himself from.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 26:10

• "hands" (יָד yād): This word refers to a person's physical hands, often representing actions or power. Here, it emphasizes that these people's actions are full of wrongdoing.
• "mischief" (זִמָּה zimmah): This word often means wicked plans or schemes. It highlights that the wrongdoing is not accidental but intentional and planned.
• "right hand" (יָמִין yāmin): In Hebrew culture, the right hand is often a symbol of strength or authority. Saying the right hand is full of bribes shows that even their most trusted actions are corrupt.
• "full" (מָלֵא male): This word means filled up or overflowing, stressing that their involvement in bribery is not occasional but constant.
• "bribes" (שֹׁחַד shōchad): This word means illegal payments or gifts given to influence judgment. It makes clear that the corruption is tied to injustice and unfairness.

Why Psalms 26:10 matters

• This verse clarifies that the problem is not just occasional wrongdoing but a pattern of corrupt behavior, with both hands and hearts involved in evil.
• By describing the right hand as full of bribes, Psalms 26:10 emphasizes that even positions of trust and authority can be misused for personal gain.
• The verse helps the reader understand why David is so careful to separate himself from such people, setting up the contrast between his own integrity and the corruption he sees around him.