Turn away from evil
The phrase "Turn away from evil" calls for a deliberate and conscious decision to reject sin and wrongdoing. The Hebrew word for "turn away" is "סוּר" (sur), which implies a strong action of departing or removing oneself from a path. This is not a passive suggestion but an active command to distance oneself from anything that contradicts God's holiness. Historically, this reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where obedience and moral integrity were paramount. In a broader scriptural context, this aligns with the call to repentance found throughout the Bible, urging believers to forsake their old ways and embrace a life that honors God.

and do good
The phrase "and do good" complements the previous command by encouraging positive action. The Hebrew word for "good" is "טוֹב" (tov), which encompasses what is beneficial, pleasant, and morally right. This is not merely about avoiding evil but actively pursuing righteousness and kindness. In the historical context of ancient Israel, doing good was often associated with following God's commandments and living in a way that reflected His character. Scripturally, this echoes the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love, mercy, and justice as central to the life of a believer.

seek peace
"Seek peace" is an invitation to pursue harmony and reconciliation. The Hebrew word for "peace" is "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), which signifies completeness, welfare, and tranquility. It is more than the absence of conflict; it is the presence of God's order and blessing. In the historical context, peace was a sign of God's favor and a key aspect of the promised land's prosperity. Biblically, seeking peace is a recurring theme, urging believers to be peacemakers and to live in unity with others, reflecting the peace that Christ brings to the world.

and pursue it
The phrase "and pursue it" emphasizes the active and ongoing effort required to maintain peace. The Hebrew word "רָדַף" (radaf) means to chase or follow after with intensity. This suggests that peace is not something that happens by chance but requires intentional effort and perseverance. Historically, this reflects the challenges faced by Israel in maintaining peace with neighboring nations and within their own community. Scripturally, it aligns with the New Testament teachings that encourage believers to strive for peace with all people, recognizing it as a fruit of the Spirit and a testament to God's transformative work in their lives.

1. David
The author of Psalm 34, David wrote this psalm during a time of personal distress, specifically when he pretended to be insane before Abimelech, who drove him away (1 Samuel 21:10-15). This context highlights David's reliance on God for deliverance and guidance.

2. Abimelech
A Philistine king, also known as Achish, who encountered David when he fled from Saul. This event underscores the theme of seeking God's protection and peace amidst adversity.

3. The Israelites
The original audience of the psalm, who were often reminded to live righteously and seek peace as part of their covenant relationship with God.Rejecting Evil
As believers, we are called to actively turn away from evil. This involves a conscious decision to reject sin and its influences in our lives.

Pursuing Goodness
Doing good is not passive; it requires intentional actions that reflect God's righteousness and love in our daily interactions.

Seeking Peace
Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of God's harmony. We are to actively seek and pursue peace in our relationships and communities.

Continuous Pursuit
The Hebrew word for "pursue" (radaph) implies a relentless chase. Our pursuit of peace and goodness should be persistent and unwavering.

Holistic Living
Turning from evil and doing good encompasses all aspects of life, including thoughts, words, and deeds, aligning our entire being with God's will.(14) And do good.--Negative goodness is not sufficient. Practical good must be added.

Verse 14. - Depart from evil, and do good. From words the psalmist proceeds to acts, and, in the briefest possible way, says all that can be said. First, he enjoins negative goodness - "depart from evil," i.e. do nothing that is wrong; break no laws of God, no command of conscience; have a conscience void of offence, both towards God and towards man. Secondly, he requires positive goodness - "Do good;" i.e. actively perform the will of God from the heart; discharge every duty; practise every virtue; carry out the precepts of the moral law in every particular. Seek peace, and pursue it. It is not clear why this virtue - one of many - is specially enjoined; but probably some circumstances of the time made the recommendation advisable.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Turn away
ס֣וּר (sūr)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 5493: To turn aside

from evil
מֵ֭רָע (mê·rā‘)
Preposition-m | Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 7451: Bad, evil

and do
וַעֲשֵׂה־ (wa·‘ă·śêh-)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 6213: To do, make

good;
ט֑וֹב (ṭō·wḇ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2896: Pleasant, agreeable, good

seek
בַּקֵּ֖שׁ (baq·qêš)
Verb - Piel - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 1245: To search out, to strive after

peace
שָׁל֣וֹם (šā·lō·wm)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7965: Safe, well, happy, friendly, welfare, health, prosperity, peace

and pursue it.
וְרָדְפֵֽהוּ׃ (wə·rā·ḏə·p̄ê·hū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular | third person masculine singular
Strong's 7291: To pursue, chase, persecute


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OT Poetry: Psalm 34:14 Depart from evil and do good (Psalm Ps Psa.)