Tehillim 101 | “No one who speaks lies shall endure before my eyes”

In this psalm, the poet declares his commitment to walk in uprightness and integrity, in anticipation of being worthy of God’s presence. Unique to this psalm is the poet’s detailed articulation of the paths of righteousness as he understands them. He declares his opposition to those who slander others in secret (verse 5) and his refusal to associate with the arrogant (verse 5). He also states who he does want near him — faithful people, meaning trustworthy and truthful individuals (verse 6). In his home there is no place for deceitful or dishonest people: “There shall not dwell within my house anyone who practices deceit; No one who speaks lies shall endure before my eyes” (verse 7). In other words, the poet not only maintains personal integrity but also ensures that liars and deceivers are excluded from his surroundings.

Plainly, the psalm is spoken by the poet and describes his own conduct, as most commentators understand it. Given this, it is notable that Chazal interpreted one of the psalm’s verses as being spoken by God Himself: “Rabbi Yirmeya bar Abba says: Four classes of people will not greet the Divine Presence… the class of liars, as it is written: ‘No one who speaks lies shall endure before My eyes’” (Sota 42a). If this verse is interpreted as being said by God — indicating that He does not dwell alongside liars — then the poet’s words can be seen as an aspiration to follow in God’s ways. God, as the ruler of the world, does not permit falsehood to exist in His presence. Similarly, a mortal king should walk in God’s ways and ensure that liars and deceivers are excluded from power and influence in his kingdom.

Please note - be'sha'a tova, we are now returning to the regular pace of two chapters per day. Congratulations on the last month with its intensive study, continued fruitful study to you all!