This psalm introduces the Psalter. Some have suggested that this psalm is an introduction to the book of Psalms, stating it is not a psalm but an introduction to what the Psalms are about. However this chapter is viewed, it can be divided into two equal parts: the blessed follow the law of God (1-3) and the wicked do not follow the law of God (4-6). The law in this chapter is not limited to the Torah (התּוֹרה) but contains all the law of God (תוֹרה). The extra letter (ה) makes it definite. However, this passage is quite reminiscent of Joshua 1.8 (see our study), which concerns the Law of God.
It is appropriate for this chapter to open the Psalter. It brings us to the basics of life: Choose to follow God and you will be blessed. Choose to disobey God and you will be cursed. This is your choice. The blessing is highlighted by Christ in Matthew 5.3-11 (the Beatitudes). The word “blessing” is not singular but plural. This brings with it all the fulness of the blessings that come from God.
Poetically this psalm offers parallelism in the verses. For example, verse one presents three-line parallelism (also synthetic parallelism where the thought is developed), which helps in the interpretation of the verse.
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does not walk in the counsel of the wicked,
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Nor stand in the path of sinners,
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Nor sit in the seat of scoffers!
Verses two and five offer two-line parallelism, again aiding in interpretation.
Verse two (also synonymous parallelism)
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his delight is in the law of the LORD,
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And in His law he meditates day and night.
Verse five
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Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
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Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
Verse three offers another type of parallelism, emblematic wherein the first line is a figure of speech and what follows explains it:
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He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,
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Which yields its fruit in its season
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And its leaf does not wither;
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And in whatever he does, he prospers.
Verse six offers antithetical parallelism where the first and second line stand in contrast to each other:
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For the LORD knows the way of the righteous,
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But the way of the wicked will perish.
Verses 1-3-The blessings of God fall on those who live a discerning life (1), a life that delights in God’s Word (2), and a life that depends on God to work in him (Philippians 2.12-14). The delight in God’s Word results in meditating day and night on it. This means more than thinking about it. It is a repetition of the Word throughout the day not allowing distractions to interfere with the process. A Jewish tradition of rocking back-and-forth, repeating God’s Word, and praying to God comes from this word. This practice is called “davening.”
Verses 4-6-In order to incur God’s curse, simply neglect verses 1-3. The ungodly are unstable (4), isolated and defeated (5), and separated from God (6).
The contrast between the godly and the ungodly is pronounced here. One is the tree with deep roots, and the other is the chaff being blown around.
The application of this chapter is simple: Where do you find yourself sitting, standing, and walking? Are you following the ways of those around you while you attempt to live the life God called you to live (syncretism)? Or, are you following His Word and His Word alone?
For a visual of this psalm, see the graphic.
