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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 119:161 Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart fears only Your word.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/119-161.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/19_Psa_119_161.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 119:161 - Your Word is a Lamp to My Feet" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart fears only Your word." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/119-161.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/119-161.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/119.htm">Chapter 119</a> > Verse 161</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/119-160.htm" title="Psalm 119:160">◄</a> Psalm 119:161 <a href="/psalms/119-162.htm" title="Psalm 119:162">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/psalms/119.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/psalms/119.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart trembles at your word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/psalms/119.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Powerful people harass me without cause, but my heart trembles only at your word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/119.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Princes persecute me without cause, but my heart stands in awe of your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/119.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart fears only Your word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/119.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />SCHIN. Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/119.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Princes persecute me without a cause, But my heart stands in awe of Your word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/119.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Rulers persecute me without cause, But my heart stands in awe of Your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/119.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Princes persecute me without cause, But my heart stands in awe of Your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/119.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Princes persecute me without cause, But my heart stands in awe of Thy words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/119.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Princes persecute me without cause, But my heart is in dread of Your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/119.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Princes persecute me without cause, But my heart stands in [reverent] awe of Your words [so I can expect You to help me].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/119.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Princes have persecuted me without cause, but my heart fears only your word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/119.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Princes have persecuted me without cause, but my heart fears only Your word. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/119.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />?? SHIN. Princes have persecuted me without a cause; But my heart standeth in awe of thy words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/119.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Rulers are cruel to me for no reason. But with all my heart I respect your words, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/119.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />SHIN. Princes have persecuted me without a cause; but my heart standeth in awe of thy words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/119.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Influential people have persecuted me for no reason, but it is only your words that fill my heart with terror.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/119.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Powerful people attack me unjustly, but I respect your law. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/119.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Though nobles persecute me for no reason, my heart stands in awe of your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/119.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart fears only Your word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/119.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Rulers pursue me for no reason, yet I am more afraid of disobeying your instructions. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/119.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />SIN and SHIN. Princes have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart stands in awe of your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/119.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />SCHIN. Princes have persecuted me without a cause; but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/119.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />SIN AND SHIN Princes have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart stands in awe of your words. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/119.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />[SHIN] Princes have pursued me without cause, "" And my heart was afraid because of Your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/119.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Shin. Princes have pursued me without cause, And because of Thy words was my heart afraid.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/119.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Chiefs pursued me gratuitously: and my heart was afraid from thy words.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/119.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />[SIN] Princes have persecuted me without cause: and my heart hath been in awe of thy words. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/119.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 118:161>SIN. The leaders have persecuted me without cause. And my heart has been awed by your words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/119.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Princes persecute me without reason, but my heart reveres only your word. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/119.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Princes persecute me without cause, but my heart stands in awe of your words.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/119.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />SHEEN. Princes have persecuted me without a cause; but my heart stands in awe of thy word.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/119.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Shin Princes pursue me for nothing and my heart is in awe of your word.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/119.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Princes have persecuted me without a cause; But my heart standeth in awe of Thy words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/119.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Princes persecuted me without a cause, but my heart feared because of thy words.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/119-161.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=15905" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/psalms/119.htm">Your Word is a Lamp to My Feet</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">160</span>The entirety of Your word is truth, and all Your righteous judgments endure forever. <span class="reftext">161</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/8269.htm" title="8269: rîm (N-mp) -- Chieftain, chief, ruler, official, captain, prince. From sarar; a head person.">Rulers</a> <a href="/hebrew/7291.htm" title="7291: rə·ḏā·p̄ū·nî (V-Qal-Perf-3cp:: 1cs) -- To pursue, chase, persecute. A primitive root; to run after (of time) gone by).">persecute me</a> <a href="/hebrew/2600.htm" title="2600: ḥin·nām (Adv) -- Out of favor. From chen; gratis, i.e. Devoid of cost, reason or advantage.">without cause,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3820.htm" title="3820: lib·bî (N-msc:: 1cs) -- A form of lebab; the heart; also used very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything.">but my heart</a> <a href="/hebrew/6342.htm" title="6342: pā·ḥaḏ (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To dread, be in dread or in awe. A primitive root; to be startled; hence, to fear in general.">fears only</a> <a href="/hebrew/1697.htm" title="1697: ū·mid·də·ḇå̄·rɛ·ḵå̄ (Conj-w, Prep-m:: N-msc:: 2ms) -- Speech, word. From dabar; a word; by implication, a matter or thing; adverbially, a cause.">Your word.</a> </span><span class="reftext">162</span>I rejoice in Your promise like one who finds great spoil.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/15-18.htm">John 15:18-20</a></span><br />If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. / If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. / Remember the word that I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well; if they kept My word, they will keep yours as well.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-10.htm">Matthew 5:10-12</a></span><br />Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. / Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/3-12.htm">2 Timothy 3:12</a></span><br />Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-12.htm">1 Peter 4:12-14</a></span><br />Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. / But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory. / If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/5-41.htm">Acts 5:41</a></span><br />The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/8-35.htm">Romans 8:35-37</a></span><br />Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? / As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” / No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/3-13.htm">1 John 3:13</a></span><br />So do not be surprised, brothers, if the world hates you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/11-36.htm">Hebrews 11:36-38</a></span><br />Still others endured mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. / They were stoned, they were sawed in two, they were put to death by the sword. They went around in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, oppressed, and mistreated. / The world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and hid in caves and holes in the ground.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/revelation/2-10.htm">Revelation 2:10</a></span><br />Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison to test you, and you will suffer tribulation for ten days. Be faithful even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/6-22.htm">Luke 6:22-23</a></span><br />Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil because of the Son of Man. / Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For their fathers treated the prophets in the same way.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/20-2.htm">Jeremiah 20:2</a></span><br />he had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put in the stocks at the Upper Gate of Benjamin, which was by the house of the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/daniel/6-4.htm">Daniel 6:4-5</a></span><br />Thus the administrators and satraps sought a charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom, but they could find no charge or corruption, because he was trustworthy, and no negligence or corruption was found in him. / Finally these men said, “We will never find any charge against this Daniel unless we find something against him concerning the law of his God.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/22-8.htm">1 Kings 22:8</a></span><br />The king of Israel answered, “There is still one man through whom we can inquire of the LORD, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good for me, but only bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.” “The king should not say that!” Jehoshaphat replied.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/24-11.htm">1 Samuel 24:11-12</a></span><br />See, my father, look at the corner of your robe in my hand. For I cut it off, but I did not kill you. Know and see that there is no evil or rebellion in my hands. I have not sinned against you, even though you are hunting me down to take my life. / May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD take vengeance on you, but my hand will never be against you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/nehemiah/4-1.htm">Nehemiah 4:1-3</a></span><br />Now when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he was furious and filled with indignation. He ridiculed the Jews / before his associates and the army of Samaria, saying, “What are these feeble Jews doing? Can they restore the wall by themselves? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they complete it in a day? Can they bring these burnt stones back to life from the mounds of rubble?” / Then Tobiah the Ammonite, who was beside him, said, “If even a fox were to climb up on what they are building, it would break down their wall of stones!”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart stands in awe of your word.</p><p class="hdg">princes</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/119-23.htm">Psalm 119:23,157</a></b></br> Princes also did sit <i>and</i> speak against me: <i>but</i> thy servant did meditate in thy statutes… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/24-9.htm">1 Samuel 24:9-14</a></b></br> And David said to Saul, Wherefore hearest thou men's words, saying, Behold, David seeketh thy hurt? … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/26-18.htm">1 Samuel 26:18</a></b></br> And he said, Wherefore doth my lord thus pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil <i>is</i> in mine hand?</p><p class="hdg">my heart</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/4-4.htm">Psalm 4:4</a></b></br> Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/39-9.htm">Genesis 39:9</a></b></br> <i>There is</i> none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou <i>art</i> his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/42-18.htm">Genesis 42:18</a></b></br> And Joseph said unto them the third day, This do, and live; <i>for</i> I fear God:</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/119-120.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/psalms/119-120.htm">Awe</a> <a href="/psalms/119-154.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/psalms/119-134.htm">Cruel</a> <a href="/psalms/119-120.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/psalms/119-145.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/psalms/119-157.htm">Persecute</a> <a href="/psalms/119-86.htm">Persecuted</a> <a href="/psalms/119-23.htm">Princes</a> <a href="/psalms/119-86.htm">Pursued</a> <a href="/psalms/119-23.htm">Rulers</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-6.htm">SHIN</a> <a href="/psalms/119-90.htm">Standeth</a> <a href="/psalms/119-90.htm">Stands</a> <a href="/psalms/119-120.htm">Trembles</a> <a href="/psalms/119-160.htm">Word</a> <a href="/psalms/119-160.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/3-24.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-7.htm">Awe</a> <a href="/psalms/119-165.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/psalms/144-11.htm">Cruel</a> <a href="/psalms/128-1.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/psalms/119-173.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/isaiah/11-13.htm">Persecute</a> <a href="/psalms/129-1.htm">Persecuted</a> <a href="/psalms/146-3.htm">Princes</a> <a href="/psalms/143-3.htm">Pursued</a> <a href="/psalms/122-5.htm">Rulers</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-6.htm">SHIN</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-2.htm">Standeth</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-2.htm">Stands</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-21.htm">Trembles</a> <a href="/psalms/119-162.htm">Word</a> <a href="/psalms/119-163.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 119</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-1.htm">This psalm contains various prayers, praises, and professions of obedience.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">2. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-2.htm">Aleph.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">9. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-9.htm">Beth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-17.htm">Gimel</a></span><br><span class="reftext">25. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-25.htm">Daleth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">33. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-33.htm">He</a></span><br><span class="reftext">41. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-41.htm">Waw</a></span><br><span class="reftext">49. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-49.htm">Zayin</a></span><br><span class="reftext">57. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-57.htm">Heth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">65. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-65.htm">Teth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">73. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-73.htm">Yodh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">81. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-81.htm">Kaph</a></span><br><span class="reftext">89. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-89.htm">Lamedh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">97. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-97.htm">Mem</a></span><br><span class="reftext">105. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-105.htm">Nun</a></span><br><span class="reftext">113. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-113.htm">Samekh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">121. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-121.htm">Ayin</a></span><br><span class="reftext">129. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-129.htm">Pe</a></span><br><span class="reftext">137. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-137.htm">Tsadhe</a></span><br><span class="reftext">145. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-145.htm">Qoph</a></span><br><span class="reftext">153. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-153.htm">Resh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">161. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-161.htm">Sin and Shin</a></span><br><span class="reftext">169. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-169.htm">Taw</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/119.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/119.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Rulers persecute me without cause</b><br>This phrase reflects the experience of unjust persecution, a common theme in the Psalms. Historically, rulers often held significant power and could act with impunity, making the psalmist's plight relatable to many believers who face oppression. The phrase echoes the experiences of biblical figures like David, who was pursued by King Saul without just cause (<a href="/1_samuel/19.htm">1 Samuel 19:1-2</a>). It also foreshadows the persecution of Jesus Christ, who was condemned by the rulers of His time despite His innocence (<a href="/john/19-4.htm">John 19:4-6</a>). The psalmist's situation can be seen as a type of Christ's own suffering, highlighting the reality of unjust suffering for the righteous.<p><b>but my heart fears only Your word</b><br>In contrast to fearing human authority, the psalmist expresses reverence for God's word. This reflects a deep trust and respect for divine authority over human power. The heart, in biblical terms, often represents the center of one's being, including emotions, will, and intellect. The psalmist's commitment to God's word aligns with the biblical principle found in <a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom." This reverence for God's word is a recurring theme in <a href="/psalms/119.htm">Psalm 119</a>, emphasizing the importance of Scripture as a guide and source of strength. The psalmist's focus on God's word over human threats underscores a faith that transcends earthly circumstances, encouraging believers to prioritize divine truth in their lives.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/princes.htm">Princes</a></b><br>These are likely rulers or leaders who have authority and power. In the context of this verse, they represent those who unjustly persecute the psalmist.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_psalmist.htm">The Psalmist</a></b><br>Traditionally attributed to David, the psalmist is the one expressing his devotion to God's word despite persecution.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/p/persecution.htm">Persecution</a></b><br>The act of being oppressed or harassed, especially because of one's beliefs. Here, it is done "without cause," indicating the innocence of the psalmist.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/g/god's_word.htm">God's Word</a></b><br>Refers to the Scriptures or divine commandments that the psalmist holds in reverence and fear.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/h/heart.htm">Heart</a></b><br>In Hebrew thought, the heart is the center of one's being, encompassing emotions, will, and intellect.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/p/perseverance_in_persecution.htm">Perseverance in Persecution</a></b><br>Believers may face unjust persecution, but they are called to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in God's word.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reverence_for_scripture.htm">Reverence for Scripture</a></b><br>The psalmist's fear of God's word highlights the importance of holding Scripture in high regard, allowing it to guide and comfort us.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/i/innocence_in_suffering.htm">Innocence in Suffering</a></b><br>Suffering without cause can be a part of the Christian experience, but it should lead us to deeper reliance on God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/h/heart's_response_to_trials.htm">Heart's Response to Trials</a></b><br>Our response to trials should be rooted in a heart that fears and respects God's word, leading to peace and assurance.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/role_of_authority.htm">Role of Authority</a></b><br>Earthly authorities may misuse their power, but ultimate authority belongs to God, whose word is just and true.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_119.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 119</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'sunset_on_anger'_mean.htm">How can one maintain purity in heart and actions?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what's_the_goal_of_world_evangelism.htm">How can I effectively memorize Bible verses?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/can_you_rise_and_carry_your_bed.htm">What is the meaning of 'Word of God: Hidden in My Heart'?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_ps._119_89_align_with_a_changing_universe.htm">If verse 89 says God's word is 'settled in heaven forever,' how does this align with scientific discoveries that the universe is constantly changing and expanding (Psalm 119:89)?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/119.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>SCHIN.</span><p>(161) <span class= "bld">Princes.</span>--Here again we have an indication of the national character of the psalm. It was the whole community which suffered from the intrigues and violence of princes.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/119.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 161.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Princes have persecuted me without a cause</span>. The "princes" may be either foreign or native; but from ver. 23 it would rather appear that native princes are intended. <span class="cmt_word">But my heart standeth in awe of thy Word</span>. Yet I do not fear <span class="accented">them</span>, or heed what <span class="accented">they</span> say. Of nothing do I stand in awe, except "thy Word." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/119-161.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Rulers</span><br /><span class="heb">שָׂ֭רִים</span> <span class="translit">(rîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8269.htm">Strong's 8269: </a> </span><span class="str2">Chieftain, chief, ruler, official, captain, prince</span><br /><br /><span class="word">persecute me</span><br /><span class="heb">רְדָפ֣וּנִי</span> <span class="translit">(rə·ḏā·p̄ū·nî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7291.htm">Strong's 7291: </a> </span><span class="str2">To pursue, chase, persecute</span><br /><br /><span class="word">without cause,</span><br /><span class="heb">חִנָּ֑ם</span> <span class="translit">(ḥin·nām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2600.htm">Strong's 2600: </a> </span><span class="str2">Gratis, devoid of cost, reason, advantage</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but my heart</span><br /><span class="heb">לִבִּֽי׃</span> <span class="translit">(lib·bî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3820.htm">Strong's 3820: </a> </span><span class="str2">The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre</span><br /><br /><span class="word">fears only</span><br /><span class="heb">פָּחַ֥ד</span> <span class="translit">(pā·ḥaḏ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6342.htm">Strong's 6342: </a> </span><span class="str2">To dread, be in dread or in awe</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Your word.</span><br /><span class="heb">וּ֝מִדְּבָרְךָ֗</span> <span class="translit">(ū·mid·də·ḇā·rə·ḵā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1697.htm">Strong's 1697: </a> </span><span class="str2">A word, a matter, thing, a cause</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/119-161.htm">Psalm 119:161 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/119-161.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 119:161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/119-160.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 119:160"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 119:160" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/119-162.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 119:162"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 119:162" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>