Psalms 26:4
Psalms 26:4 in Multiple Translations
I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites.
I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.
I have not sat with men of falsehood; Neither will I go in with dissemblers.
I have not taken my seat with foolish persons, and I do not go with false men.
I don't join in with liars and I don't associate with hypocrites.
I haue not hanted with vaine persons, neither kept companie with the dissemblers.
I have not sat with vain men, And with dissemblers I enter not.
I have not sat with deceitful men, neither will I go in with hypocrites.
I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.
One thing I have asked of the Lord, this will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. That I may see the delight of the Lord, and may visit his temple.
I do not spend my time with liars and I stay away from hypocrites.
Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 26:4
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Psalms 26:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
לֹא
יָ֭שַׁבְתִּי
עִם
מְתֵי
שָׁ֑וְא
וְ/עִ֥ם
נַ֝עֲלָמִ֗ים
לֹ֣א
אָבֽוֹא
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יָ֭שַׁבְתִּי
yâshab
H3427
to dwell
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
עִם
ʻim
H5973
with
Prep
מְתֵי
math
H4962
man
N-mp
שָׁ֑וְא
shâvᵉʼ
H7723
vanity
N-ms
וְ/עִ֥ם
ʻim
H5973
with
Conj | Prep
נַ֝עֲלָמִ֗ים
ʻâlam
H5956
to conceal
V-Niphal
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
אָבֽוֹא
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 26:4
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יָ֭שַׁבְתִּי
yâshab
H3427
"to dwell"
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
This verb means to sit or dwell, and can also mean to remain or abide. It's used in the Bible to describe people living in a place or staying with someone, like in the book of Genesis.
Definition: 1) to dwell, remain, sit, abide 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sit, sit down 1a2) to be set 1a3) to remain, stay 1a4) to dwell, have one's abode 1b) (Niphal) to be inhabited 1c) (Piel) to set, place 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to sit 1d2) to cause to abide, set 1d3) to cause to dwell 1d4) to cause (cities) to be inhabited 1d5) to marry (give an dwelling to) 1e) (Hophal) 1e1) to be inhabited 1e2) to make to dwell Aramaic equivalent: ye.tiv (יְתִב "to dwell" H3488)
Usage: Occurs in 977 OT verses. KJV: (make to) abide(-ing), continue, (cause to, make to) dwell(-ing), ease self, endure, establish, [idiom] fail, habitation, haunt, (make to) inhabit(-ant), make to keep (house), lurking, [idiom] marry(-ing), (bring again to) place, remain, return, seat, set(-tle), (down-) sit(-down, still, -ting down, -ting (place) -uate), take, tarry. See also: Genesis 4:16; Leviticus 25:18; Joshua 13:6.
עִם
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Prep
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
מְתֵי
math
H4962
"man"
N-mp
This Hebrew word refers to a grown man, as seen in Genesis 14:24 and Numbers 31:28. It can also mean a few men or a small group of people, depending on the context. The word is used to describe adult males in various biblical stories.
Definition: 1) male, man 1a) males, men 1b) few men (in prose) 1b1) less emphasis on sex 1c) men (poetic) 1c1) less emphasis on sex
Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] few, [idiom] friends, men, persons, [idiom] small. See also: Genesis 34:30; Job 19:19; Psalms 17:14.
שָׁ֑וְא
shâvᵉʼ
H7723
"vanity"
N-ms
Vanity or falsehood, this word describes something empty, useless, or deceitful, like the idols worshipped by the Israelites in Isaiah 41:29, or the lies and false promises spoken by false prophets in Jeremiah 23:25.
Definition: : false 1) emptiness, vanity, falsehood 1a) emptiness, nothingness, vanity 1b) emptiness of speech, lying 1c) worthlessness (of conduct) Also means: shav (שָׁוְא ": vain" H7723H)
Usage: Occurs in 48 OT verses. KJV: false(-ly), lie, lying, vain, vanity. See also: Exodus 20:7; Isaiah 1:13; Psalms 12:3.
וְ/עִ֥ם
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
נַ֝עֲלָמִ֗ים
ʻâlam
H5956
"to conceal"
V-Niphal
This Hebrew word means to hide or conceal something from view. It appears in various forms, including being hidden or keeping a secret. In the Bible, it is used to describe hiding oneself or something from others.
Definition: 1) to conceal, hide, be hidden, be concealed, be secret 1a) (Qal) secret (participle) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be concealed 1b2) concealed, dissembler (participle) 1c) (Hiphil) to conceal, hide 1d) (Hithpael) to hide oneself
Usage: Occurs in 27 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any ways, blind, dissembler, hide (self), secret (thing). See also: Leviticus 4:13; Job 6:16; Psalms 10:1.
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
אָבֽוֹא
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
Study Notes — Psalms 26:4
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Psalms 26:4 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Psalms 26:4
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 26:4
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
- Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
- Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
- Cambridge Bible on Psalms 26:4
- Barnes' Notes on Psalms 26:4
- Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
- Sermons on Psalms 26:4
Context — Vindicate Me, O LORD
2Test me, O LORD, and try me; examine my heart and mind.
3For Your loving devotion is before my eyes, and I have walked in Your truth.
4I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites.
5I hate the mob of evildoers, and refuse to sit with the wicked. 6I wash my hands in innocence that I may go about Your altar, O LORD,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jeremiah 15:17 | I never sat with the band of revelers, nor did I celebrate with them. Because Your hand was on me, I sat alone, for You have filled me with indignation. |
| 2 | Psalms 1:1 | Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. |
| 3 | Psalms 119:115 | Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may obey the commandments of my God. |
| 4 | Proverbs 13:20 | He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed. |
| 5 | Psalms 119:63 | I am a friend to all who fear You, and to those who keep Your precepts. |
| 6 | 2 Corinthians 6:17 | “Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” |
| 7 | Proverbs 9:6 | Leave your folly behind, and you will live; walk in the way of understanding.” |
| 8 | Proverbs 12:11 | The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies lacks judgment. |
| 9 | 1 Corinthians 15:33 | Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good character.” |
Psalms 26:4 Summary
Psalms 26:4 means that we should be careful about the people we choose to spend time with, because the company we keep can influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions. As the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 15:33, 'Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.' We should strive to surround ourselves with people who love and follow God, and avoid those who might lead us astray (Proverbs 22:24-25). By being mindful of our relationships, we can stay focused on God and live a life that honors Him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'sit with deceitful men' in Psalms 26:4?
This phrase means to associate or fellowship with people who are dishonest and untrustworthy, as seen in Psalms 101:5, where the psalmist says he will destroy anyone who slanders their neighbor, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with truthful and faithful companions.
Is it wrong to be friends with people who are not believers?
While Psalms 26:4 does not explicitly prohibit friendships with unbelievers, it does caution against keeping company with hypocrites, implying that our closest relationships should be with those who share our faith and values, as seen in 2 Corinthians 6:14, where the apostle Paul advises against being yoked with unbelievers.
How can we discern who is a 'deceitful man' or a 'hypocrite'?
We can discern deceitful or hypocritical people by observing their actions and words, as advised in Matthew 7:15-20, where Jesus teaches that we can recognize false prophets by their fruits, and in 1 John 2:4, which states that those who claim to know God but do not keep His commandments are liars.
Does this verse mean we should isolate ourselves from the world?
No, Psalms 26:4 does not advocate for isolation, but rather for being mindful of the company we keep and the influences we allow in our lives, as seen in 1 Corinthians 5:9-10, where the apostle Paul instructs believers to not associate with immoral people, but still to be a light in the world, as in Matthew 5:14-16.
Reflection Questions
- What kind of company do I keep, and are there any relationships in my life that may be hindering my walk with God?
- How can I balance the need to be a witness to unbelievers with the caution against keeping company with hypocrites?
- What are some practical ways I can 'not sit with deceitful men' in my daily life, such as in my workplace or social circle?
- How does my association with others impact my own character and faith, and what steps can I take to surround myself with positive influences?
Gill's Exposition on Psalms 26:4
I have not sat with vain persons,.... Or "men of vanity" (t); who are full of it; who are addicted to the vanities of the world; who pursue the riches, honours, pleasures, and profits of it; which is
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 26:4
I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers. Vain persons - i:e., deceitful persons. He who keeps before his eyes the "truth" of God (Psalms 26:3) cannot have pleasure in untruth.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
I have not sat, i.e. chosen or used to converse with them; for sitting is a posture of ease and of continuance. I have been so far from an approbation or imitation of their wicked courses, (wherewith mine enemies reproach me,) that I have avoided even their company; and if accidentally I came into it, yet I would not abide in it. With vain persons, i.e. with liars, or false and deceitful persons, as the next clause explains it. And vanity is very frequently put for falsehood or lying. Neither will I go in; into their company, or with design to join in their counsels or courses, as the same word is used, . And conversation is oft expressed by going out and coming in. With dissemblers, Heb. with such as hide themselves, covering their crafty and wicked designs with fair pretences. I abhor such persons and practices, though I am accused to be such a one.
Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
Psalms 26:4 I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.Ver. 4. I have not sat with vain persons] Who are void of God’ s holy fear, but filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, &c., Romans 1:29. Courtiers are such for most part, and David never delighted in such company, to sit with them, especially when they were acting mischief; which while Cromwell did at the condemnation of Lambert, martyr, and Sir John Cheek at other such like meetings, they were cast upon no small snares and inconveniences. See Jeremiah 15:17. Neither will I go in with dissemblers] Heb. close workers of iniquity, secret and sly sirs, such as hide themselves to do evil, as the Chaldee hath it, Qui secreto male agunt, and can carry their wickedness cleanly and closely, so as that the world shall be little the wiser, versatiles et versutili, multiplices, Protei; such as can serve the times, and shift their sails to the setting of every wind, Machiavellians, Ahithophels, Jonadabs, 2 Samuel 13:3. These men’ s wisdom may serve them, as the ostrich’ s wings, to make them outrun others upon earth, though it be into hell’ s mouth, but help them never a whit toward heaven. David, therefore, would have nothing to do with them, he would neither enter, walk, nor sit with any such, they should not sprinkle him with their court holy water.
Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
(4) Dissemblers—i.e., hypocrites.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
Verse 4. I have not sat with vain persons] מתי שוא methey shav, men of lies, dissemblers, backbiters, &c. Neither will I go in with dissemblers] נעלמים naalamim, the hidden ones, the dark designers, the secret plotters and conspirators in the state.
Cambridge Bible on Psalms 26:4
4–7. The proof of his integrity in his conduct in the past, and his purpose for the future.
Barnes' Notes on Psalms 26:4
I have not sat with vain persons - That is, I have not been found among them; I have not made them my companions. See the notes at Psalms 1:1. The word “vain” here is in contrast with those who are sincere and true.
Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 26:4
4. Hitherto David has based his prayer upon his relation to God; in Psalms 26:4-5 he pleads his discreet and pure associations with men. Vain persons— Literally, mortals of vanity, or emptiness.
Sermons on Psalms 26:4
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Why You Were Saved (A Brief Devotional) by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being born again by the Spirit of God to have a close relationship with Him. The speaker highlights that being a good or b |
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Desperation, Resignation - Part 2 by Keith Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting God even in times of despair and bitterness, highlighting the need to cleanse our hearts from unworthy suspicions concerning God's |
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Healing - Part 2 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of using the gift that God has given us. He shares his personal experience of receiving more of God's gifts by choosing to use |
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(Dangers in the Way Series): Resisting the Worlds Propoganda by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking circumspectly as Christians, being watchful and cautious to avoid falling into the traps set by the devil. He spec |
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How to Prosper in Hard Times by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being convicted by the Holy Ghost and acknowledging one's sins before God. He encourages the congregation to rejoice in th |
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The Word of God by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the speaker introduces Brother Keith Daniels, a faithful minister of the gospel from South Africa, who has been brought to minister to the young people in attendanc |
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Cain and Abel (The First Murder) - Part 1 by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a 10-day period of fasting and prayer where they were seeking a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. They acknowledge that God did not act in t |