he flatters himself
The Hebrew word for "flatters" is "chalaq," which can mean to divide or to smooth. In this context, it implies a deceptive smoothing over of one's faults. Flattery, especially self-flattery, is dangerous because it blinds individuals to their true spiritual state. Historically, this reflects the human tendency to justify sin and ignore the need for repentance. The Bible consistently warns against self-deception, as seen in James 1:22, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."

in his own eyes
The repetition of this phrase emphasizes the self-referential nature of the individual's judgment. It underscores the isolation from external, objective truth, particularly God's truth. This self-reliance is a common theme in Scripture, where reliance on one's own understanding is contrasted with trusting in the Lord, as in Proverbs 3:5-6. The historical context of Israel often involved turning away from God to follow their own ways, leading to spiritual and national decline.

to his own detriment
This phrase indicates the harmful consequences of self-flattery and self-deception. The Hebrew root "matsa" can mean to find or to reach, suggesting that the individual will ultimately encounter negative outcomes due to their actions. Biblically, this serves as a warning that sin and pride lead to destruction, as seen in Proverbs 16:18, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." The historical context of Israel's repeated cycles of sin and repentance illustrates the truth of this principle.

he cannot detect
The inability to detect one's own sin is a profound spiritual blindness. The Hebrew word "matsa" here implies a failure to find or perceive. This blindness is a result of pride and self-deception, which prevent individuals from recognizing their need for God's grace and forgiveness. Scripturally, this is a call to self-examination and humility, as seen in 2 Corinthians 13:5, "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves."

and hate his sin
The ultimate tragedy of self-deception is the failure to hate one's sin. The Hebrew word for "hate" is "sane," which conveys a strong aversion or detest. In the biblical context, hating sin is essential for repentance and spiritual growth. Psalm 97:10 states, "Let those who love the LORD hate evil." This phrase calls believers to align their hearts with God's, who is holy and righteous, and to cultivate a deep aversion to sin in their lives.

Sin is the wicked man's oracle in his heart;

No fear of God is before his eyes;

He makes all smooth to himself in his eyes.

As to the discovery of his guilt that is his hate;

Or,

The discovery of his guilt is the only thing he hates.

This reading takes the two infinitives as subject and complement with the copula understood. It would be strange if Hebrew, which, above all languages, makes the infinitive do duty in various ways, offered no instance of such a use. (For matsa aven in the sense of the discovery of guilt, comp. Genesis 44:16; Hosea 12:8, etc.) . . .