Psalm 15
- Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
- He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
- He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
- In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
- He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.
Psalm 15 poses a fundamental question about who is worthy to dwell in the presence of God. It outlines the characteristics of a person who is fit to reside in God’s tabernacle and on His holy hill.
The psalmist begins by emphasizing the importance of integrity and righteousness in one’s conduct. A person who walks uprightly and speaks truthfully from the heart is considered worthy of God’s dwelling.
Furthermore, the psalmist highlights the importance of interpersonal relationships. One who refrains from slander, harm, and reproach against their neighbor demonstrates their commitment to living a godly life. They also show respect for those who fear the Lord and maintain their promises, even to their own detriment.
The psalmist also touches upon economic ethics, noting that a righteous person does not exploit others for personal gain. They do not engage in usury or accept bribes that harm the innocent.
Ultimately, the psalmist concludes that those who embody these qualities will remain steadfast and secure. Their commitment to righteousness ensures their stability and favor in God’s sight, promising an enduring relationship with Him.
In essence, Psalm 15 serves as a moral guideline for righteous living and underscores the importance of integrity, compassion, and ethical behavior in the eyes of God.