Old Testament
Psalms 141:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, to practice wicked works with men who work iniquity — and let me not eat of their dainties.
Compare translations
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.
What Psalms 141:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is asking God to protect his heart from being drawn towards evil and to avoid engaging in wicked actions alongside those who commit wrongdoing. The mention of not wanting to eat the 'dainties' of the wicked suggests a desire to refrain from enjoying the pleasures or benefits that come from immoral people. This reflects a deep awareness of the influence that associations with wrongdoers can have on one's character and choices. The psalmist recognizes that being around those who practice iniquity can lead to temptation and compromise. Therefore, he seeks divine help to maintain his integrity and to stay focused on righteousness, avoiding the allure of sinful behavior and the false comforts that come from it. This plea highlights the importance of vigilance in one's spiritual life and the need for God's guidance to remain steadfast against moral corruption.
How to apply Psalms 141:4 to your life
To apply this verse, we should be mindful of the company we keep and the influences in our lives. Regularly pray for strength to resist temptation and to stay true to our values. Seek friendships that encourage righteousness and avoid situations that may lead us astray.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 141:4
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 141:4
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 141:4 mean?
Psalms 141:4 expresses a plea to God for protection against being drawn into evil actions and the influence of wicked people. The psalmist seeks to avoid the temptations and pleasures that come from associating with those who do wrong.
What is the meaning of 'dainties' in Psalms 141:4?
In Psalms 141:4, 'dainties' refers to the luxurious or pleasurable things enjoyed by the wicked. The psalmist is indicating a desire to refrain from indulging in the comforts or benefits that come from immoral associations.
How can I apply Psalms 141:4 in my life?
To apply Psalms 141:4, be mindful of the people you associate with and the influences they have on you. Pray for strength to resist temptation and seek relationships that encourage positive values.
What themes are present in Psalms 141:4?
Psalms 141:4 highlights themes such as the need for divine guidance, the importance of integrity, avoiding temptation, and the influence of peers on one's moral choices.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.