Psalms 119:85 KJV states, "The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law." This verse is part of the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119, which is a celebration of the power and value of God's word. The psalmist expresses the deep reverence, commitment, and love for God's law throughout the entire chapter.

The theme of this particular verse is the plight of the psalmist who is being persecuted by the proud. The term "proud" is often used in the Bible to refer to those who are arrogant, self-reliant, and opposed to God. The psalmist laments that these proud individuals have dug pits for him, which symbolize traps and snares set by his enemies. The use of pits as imagery highlights the danger and treachery that the psalmist is facing.

The proud have not acted in accordance with God's law. This points to the idea that their actions are not aligned with the principles of righteousness, justice, and compassion that are laid out in the Bible. The contrast between the actions of the proud and the righteousness of God's law serves as a commentary on the moral and ethical implications of their behavior. It emphasizes the idea that those who are opposed to God's law are capable of deceit, harm, and injustice.

In a broader sense, this verse also conveys the universal struggle between good and evil. The proud represent the forces of opposition and persecution that exist in the world, while the psalmist embodies the righteous who are targeted and oppressed for their faith and adherence to God's law. This conflict is a recurring theme in the Bible, and the psalmist's plea for deliverance from the pits serves as a testament to the enduring struggle between light and darkness.

The context of Psalm 119 as a whole is significant in understanding the depth and significance of this verse. The psalmist repeatedly expresses his devotion to God's law and his reliance on it for guidance, comfort, and strength. In the face of persecution and adversity, the psalmist finds solace in the precepts, statutes, and commands of God. This verse, in particular, reflects the psalmist's trust in God's ultimate protection and deliverance, despite the threats and dangers that he faces.

Symbolism plays a crucial role in this verse, as the "pits" represent the treacherous snares and traps set by the proud. This imagery evokes a sense of vulnerability, danger, and entrapment. It underscores the psalmist's feeling of being targeted and pursued by his enemies, and the need for divine intervention to navigate through these perilous circumstances.

Furthermore, the contrast between the actions of the proud and God's law symbolizes the dichotomy between evil and righteousness. The proud's disregard for God's law represents a deviation from moral principles and a willingness to cause harm and injustice. In contrast, the psalmist's commitment to God's law signifies his alignment with the values of truth, justice, and righteousness.

In conclusion, Psalm 119:85 KJV is a powerful and poignant reflection on the psalmist's plight in the face of persecution by the proud. It conveys the theme of the universal struggle between good and evil, as well as the enduring faith and trust in God's law as a source of guidance and protection. The verse's use of imagery, context within Psalm 119, and symbolic contrast between the actions of the proud and God's law all contribute to its profound message about the moral, ethical, and spiritual dimensions of human experience.