when no one pursues
This phrase emphasizes the irrational fear and anxiety that plagues the wicked. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the idea of fleeing without a pursuer would have been seen as a sign of cowardice and internal unrest. It highlights the self-destructive nature of sin, where the guilt and shame of wrongdoing lead to a life of fear and instability. Theologically, it underscores the belief that sin separates individuals from God, leading to a life devoid of true peace and security.

but the righteous
The Hebrew word for "righteous" is "צַדִּיק" (tzaddik), which denotes those who are just, lawful, and in right standing with God. In the biblical context, righteousness is not merely about moral behavior but is deeply connected to one's relationship with God. The righteous are those who live according to God's will and commandments, and as a result, they experience His favor and protection. This phrase sets up a stark contrast with the wicked, highlighting the peace and confidence that come from living a life aligned with God's purposes.

are as bold as a lion
The lion is a symbol of strength, courage, and majesty in the ancient world. In the biblical context, being "as bold as a lion" implies a sense of fearlessness and confidence that comes from a clear conscience and trust in God. The righteous, unlike the wicked, have no reason to fear because they are secure in their relationship with God. This boldness is not arrogance but a profound assurance that God is with them, empowering them to face challenges with courage. Historically, this imagery would resonate with the Israelites, who understood the lion as a powerful and noble creature, embodying the virtues of strength and bravery that come from living a life of righteousness.

(1) The wicked flee when no man pursueth.--Comp. the curse pronounced upon Israel for disobedience (Leviticus 26:17; Leviticus 26:36).

The righteous are bold as a lion.--Comp. Leviticus 26:8; 1Samuel 17:32, sqq.; Psalm 91:1, sqq. . . .

"Si fractus illabatur orbis,
Impavidum ferient ruinae." Whoso feareth the Lord shall not fear nor be afraid; for he is his Hope (Ecclus. 31 (34):14, etc.). St. Gregory ('Moral.,' 31:55, "The lion is not afraid in the onset of beasts, because he knows well that he is stronger than them all. Whence the fearlessness of a righteous man is rightly compared to a lion, because, when he beholds any rising against him, he returns to the confidence of his mind, and knows that he overcomes all his adversaries because he loves him alone whom he cannot in any way lose against his will. For whoever seeks after outward things, which are taken from him even against his will, subjects himself of his own accord to outward fear. But unbroken virtue is the contempt of earthly desire, because the mind is both placed on high when it is raised above the meanest objects by the judgment of its hopes, and is the less affected by all adversities, the more safely it is fortified by being placed on things above" (Oxford transl.).

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