Psalm 1/Notes/Lexical.v. 1.413342

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The word "insolent people" (לֵצִים), which might also be translated as "scoffers"[1] or "mockers"[2] refers to those who show "contempt for other people and ideas."[3] "Most languages have abundant terms expressing ridicule, often accompanied by derogatory gestures. Frequently figurative language expresses ridicule; for example, 'shake the finger,' 'wag the head,' or 'make faces.'"[4] The CEV translation, "sneering at God," may be too narrow, since the contempt of mockers may also be directed at other people. Whereas the Law of YHWH (see v. 2) is summed up in the commands to love God and one's neighbor,[5] the journey that begins with "the counsel of wicked people" leads to contempt for God and one's neighbor - the very opposite of what God requires.

  1. NASB, ESV, NET
  2. NIV, NLT
  3. SDBH
  4. Bratcher and Reyburn 1991, 17.
  5. Deut 6:5; Lev 19:18; cf., Matt 22:38-40.