Psalms 26:6

"I hate the assembly of evildoers, and will not sit with the wicked."

Key Reflection

In first-century Jewish culture, the psalmist expresses a strong aversion to the company of evildoers, reflecting a commitment to maintaining spiritual purity and integrity. The term "wicked" would have encompassed those who deviated from traditional religious laws and moral standards, emphasizing the importance of avoiding association with such individuals to preserve one's own righteousness and devotion.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

I will wash mine hands in innocency -The psalmist here refers, as another evidence of his piety, to the fact that it was a ruling purpose of his life to be pure, to worship and serve his Maker in purity. He had stated that he had no sympathy with the wicked, and that he did not make them his companions; he now states what his preferences were, and where his heart was to be found. He had loved, and he still loved the worship of God; he delighted in the pure service of the Most High. Washing the hands is an emblem of purity. So PilateMatthew 27:24“took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person.” CompareDeuteronomy 21:6-7.

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