Psalm 75:4

I say to the proud, 'Do not boast,' and to the wicked, 'Do not lift up your horn.

Study Bible

I say to the proud
The Hebrew word for "proud" here is "זֵדִים" (zedim), which conveys a sense of arrogance or insolence. In the biblical context, pride is often associated with a self-reliant attitude that dismisses the sovereignty of God. The psalmist, speaking on behalf of God, addresses those who elevate themselves above others and above divine authority. This serves as a reminder that God is aware of human pride and actively speaks against it. Historically, pride has been a recurring theme in the Bible, often leading to downfall, as seen in the accounts of figures like Pharaoh or King Nebuchadnezzar.

‘Do not boast,’
The term "boast" in Hebrew is "תִּתְהַלָּלוּ" (tithalalu), which means to glorify oneself or to brag. In the biblical narrative, boasting is often linked to a false sense of security or achievement that ignores God's role in one's life. The admonition here is a call to humility, urging individuals to recognize that all accomplishments and strengths are gifts from God. This aligns with the broader scriptural teaching that true wisdom and strength come from acknowledging one's dependence on the Lord.

and to the wicked
The word "wicked" is translated from the Hebrew "רְשָׁעִים" (resha'im), referring to those who are morally wrong or guilty of sin. In the Psalms, the wicked are often contrasted with the righteous, highlighting a life lived in opposition to God's laws. The historical context of the Psalms frequently reflects a society where the wicked seem to prosper, yet the psalmist reassures the faithful that God is just and will ultimately judge the wicked. This serves as a comfort to believers, affirming that God's justice will prevail.

‘Do not lift up your horn
The phrase "lift up your horn" uses the Hebrew "תָּרִימוּ קָרֶן" (tarimu qeren), where "horn" symbolizes strength and power, often used in the context of military might or personal pride. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the horn of an animal, like a bull, represented power and dominance. By telling the wicked not to "lift up their horn," the psalmist is warning against self-exaltation and the misuse of power. This imagery reinforces the message that true power belongs to God, and human attempts to assert dominance apart from Him are ultimately futile. The call is to submit to God's authority and recognize His ultimate control over all creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Proud
Individuals characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and arrogance. In the biblical context, pride often leads to a rejection of God's authority.

2. The Wicked
Those who act in ways contrary to God's laws and righteousness. The wicked are often depicted as being in opposition to God's people and His purposes.

3. The Horn
A symbol of strength and power in biblical literature. Lifting up one's horn signifies exalting oneself or asserting one's power and dominance.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Pride is a spiritual pitfall that leads to a false sense of security and self-reliance. It blinds individuals to their need for God and His guidance.

The Futility of Self-Exaltation
Lifting up one's horn, or self-exaltation, is ultimately futile because true power and authority belong to God alone. Human strength is temporary and limited.

The Call to Humility
Believers are called to humility, recognizing that all gifts and abilities come from God. Humility opens the door to God's grace and favor.

God's Sovereign Judgment
God is the ultimate judge who sees the hearts of all people. He will bring down the proud and exalt the humble in His perfect timing.

Living in Reverence to God
A life lived in reverence to God acknowledges His sovereignty and seeks to align with His will, avoiding the pitfalls of pride and wickedness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of pride in Psalm 75:4 relate to the broader biblical account about humility and dependence on God?

2. In what ways can believers guard against the temptation to "lift up their horn" in their personal and professional lives?

3. How does understanding the original Hebrew context of "horn" as a symbol of strength influence our interpretation of this verse?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate humility in our daily walk with God, as encouraged by Psalm 75:4 and related scriptures?

5. How can the warnings in Psalm 75:4 about pride and wickedness inform our interactions with others, especially those who may not share our faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:18
This verse warns that pride precedes destruction, reinforcing the message of Psalm 75:4 about the dangers of boasting and self-exaltation.

James 4:6
This New Testament passage echoes the theme of humility, stating that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, aligning with the admonition against boasting in Psalm 75:4.

1 Samuel 2:3
Hannah's prayer includes a warning against arrogance, similar to the message in Psalm 75:4, emphasizing that God is a God of knowledge who weighs actions.