Old Testament
Psalms 101:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor, I will cut off. The one with a high look and a proud heart I will not tolerate.
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Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.
What Psalms 101:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a strong stance against slander and pride. Slandering someone means speaking ill of them behind their back, which is a betrayal of trust and community. The psalmist declares that anyone who engages in such behavior will be cut off, indicating a serious consequence for those who harm others with their words. Additionally, the verse addresses the issue of pride, specifically those who look down on others with arrogance. The psalmist emphasizes that a proud heart is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. This reflects a commitment to integrity and humility, suggesting that a leader or a person of influence must uphold these values to maintain a just and honorable community. Overall, the verse serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with respect and the dangers of allowing pride and slander to take root in our lives.
How to apply Psalms 101:5 to your life
To apply this verse, we should be mindful of our words and avoid speaking negatively about others, especially in secret. Cultivating humility is essential; we should strive to see others as equals rather than looking down on them. This promotes a healthier community.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Keep studying Psalms 101:5
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 101:5 say about slander?
Psalms 101:5 condemns slander, stating that anyone who secretly speaks ill of their neighbor will face serious consequences. The psalmist emphasizes that such behavior is unacceptable and will lead to being cut off from the community, highlighting the importance of honesty and trust among individuals.
How does pride relate to the message in Psalms 101:5?
In Psalms 101:5, pride is addressed alongside slander. The verse indicates that those who have a high look and a proud heart are not tolerated. This suggests that arrogance and disdain for others undermine community integrity and that humility is essential for healthy relationships.
What are the consequences of slander according to Psalms 101:5?
The consequence of slander, as stated in Psalms 101:5, is being cut off from the community. This serves as a warning that harmful speech can lead to isolation and loss of trust, emphasizing the need for respectful communication and accountability in our interactions.
How can I apply the teachings of Psalms 101:5 in my life?
To apply the teachings of Psalms 101:5, focus on speaking positively about others and avoid gossip or slander. Practice humility by treating everyone with respect, regardless of their status. This approach fosters a supportive community and aligns with the values of integrity and kindness.
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