Bible Commentaries
Psalms 15

Verses 1-5

In this Ps. we have a fine summary of the essentials of OT. piety. It sets forth the character and conduct required in the worshipper for acceptance with God. The occasion of its composition may have been the bringing of the ark to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:17). Cp. with the whole Ps. Isaiah 33:14, Isaiah 33:15. This is another of the Pss. for Ascension Day.

1. Abide] RV ’sojourn.’ The worshipper is conceived as the guest of God. Tabernacle] lit. ’tent,’ the kind of structure prepared by David for the ark. Thy holy hill] Mt. Zion, viewed as God’s dwelling-place, and specially consecrated first by the presence of the ark, and afterwards by Solomon’s Temple.

2. In his heart] Emphasis is laid on inward sincerity as well as on outward integrity.

3. Backbiteth] RV ’slandereth.’ Taketh up a reproach] The phrase refers to receiving and repeating what is to another’s discredit.

4. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not] A truly upright man will keep his word even to his own disadvantage.

5. Usury] was forbidden by the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 25:36-37; Deuteronomy 23:19-20) as inconsistent with the kindly spirit of brotherhood among Israelites. Interest was allowed to be taken from foreigners. The absence of greed and exaction is what the Psalmist commends. Nor taketh reward against the innocent] Bribery has always been one of the greatest corruptions of society in the East. It was sternly forbidden in Israel (Exodus 23:7-8; Deuteronomy 27:25), and the worthy guest of Jehovah could not stoop to such a thing. Shall never be moved] an expressive way of summing up the strength and stability of a righteous life.