Psalm 101 is a declaration of David’s commitment to righteous rule, both in his personal life and in his kingdom. Verse 3 specifically addresses his determination to avoid evil influences. Here’s a breakdown:

Psalm 101:3: “I will set no wicked thing before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me.”

To understand this verse more deeply, let’s examine the Hebrew words:

• “I will set” (אָשִׁית, ‘ashit): This Hebrew word implies placing, establishing, or appointing. It conveys a deliberate and intentional action.

• “no wicked thing” (לְנֶגֶד עֵינַי, ləneged ‘eynay): “לְנֶגֶד” (ləneged) means “before,” “in front of,” or “in the presence of.”

• “עֵינַי” (‘eynay) means “my eyes.”Therefore, the phrase indicates a conscious refusal to allow anything evil to occupy his visual attention or mental focus. The word wicked, is a very broad term, that can be used to describe worthless, or base things.

• “I hate” (שָׂנֵאתִי, sane’ti): This word expresses a strong emotional revulsion, a deep-seated abhorrence.

• “the work of those who fall away” (עֲשֹׂה־סֹטִים, ‘aso-sotim): “עֲשֹׂה” (‘aso) means “the work” or “the doing.”

• “סֹטִים” (sotim) refers to those who “turn aside,” “deviate,” or “fall away” from the righteous path. This speaks of those who are unfaithful.

• “it shall not cling to me” (לֹא יִדְבַּק בִּי, lo’ yidbaq bi): “יִדְבַּק” (yidbaq) means “to cling,” “to adhere,” or “to cleave.”

• “בִּי” (bi) means “to me.” This phrase communicates David’s determination to prevent evil from taking hold of him, from becoming a part of his life.

Commentary:

In the context of Psalm 101, David is outlining his commitment to righteous leadership. This verse reveals his personal resolve to maintain purity. It’s not simply about avoiding outward acts of wickedness, but also about guarding his inner life, his thoughts, and his visual intake.

• He understands that what he allows his eyes to see can influence his heart. Therefore, he makes a conscious decision to reject anything that is “wicked” or “worthless.”
• His hatred for the “work of those who fall away” demonstrates his intolerance for unfaithfulness and deviation from God’s ways.
• The phrase “it shall not cling to me” emphasizes his desire to maintain a clear separation from evil. He doesn’t want any trace of it to remain in his life.

This verse has relevance for all followers of Christ. It reminds us of the importance of:

1. Guarding our hearts: We must be vigilant about what we allow to influence our thoughts and desires.
2. Separating ourselves from evil: We should actively avoid situations and influences that could lead us astray.
3. Pursuing integrity: Like David, we should strive to live lives that are consistent with our faith.

In essence, Psalm 101:3 is a powerful declaration of a commitment to personal purity and a rejection of all that is contrary to God’s righteous character.