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1:1–6 The book of Psalms In its final shape, the book of Psalms is divided into five sections, the first four of which end in a similar doxology (see 41:13; 72:19; 89:52; 106:48). This first psalm, as an introduction to these “five books”—an echo of the five books of Torah or Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible) encourages readers to allow these songs to guide them toward wisdom and worship, granting them a place in the assembly of the righteous (vv. 5–6). 1 is a wisdom psalm that describes and contrasts the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. It first describes the character of the righteous (vv. 1–2) and their fate (v. 3), it continues with the fate of the wicked (vv. 4–5), and concludes with a statement describing Yahweh’s role in their respective fates (v. 6). |
Types of Psalms Table
1:1 Blessed is The Hebrew term used here, ashre, describes someone who is privileged or happy. Wisdom Literature commonly uses this expression to indicate someone who is fortunate or privileged (Job 5:17; Pr 3:13; 28:14). Its Greek equivalent—makarios—is found in Jesus’ beatitudes (Matt 5:3–11).
Blessed NBD
Beatitude DBI
Ashrey NIDOTTE
does not walk in the advice of The three functions described here—counsel, way, and seat—emphasize that the righteous avoid thinking like, behaving like, and dealing with the wicked.
mockers This common Hebrew Wisdom Literature term, zed, describes an arrogant fool who refuses discipline and correction (Prov 13:1; 15:12; 21:24).
1:2 in the law of Yahweh is his delight Instead of associating with the wicked, the blessed person takes pleasure in God’s Law. The Law (torah) of Yahweh can refer specifically to the Mosaic law or more generally to the instruction of God.
Law AYBD
he meditates The Hebrew word used here, hagah, means “to murmur” or “read aloud.” It has the connotation of pondering over something.
Meditating on the Law—the first five books of the Bible—should result in obedience (Josh 1:8).
Meditate ISBE
1:3 like a tree The psalmist compares a blessed person to a tree: stable, well nourished, fruitful, and prosperous (Psa 92:12–14; Jer 17:7–8).
1:4 chaff The husks and stalks of wheat blown away by the wind as grain is winnowed.
In contrast to the stable, flourishing tree of the righteous, the wicked are fragile and temporary (Isa 29:5; Hos 13:3).
Chaff ISBE
1:5 the congregation of The term edah (“congregation” or “assembly”) often refers to the people of Israel (Exod 16:22; 38:25). Here, it likely refers more generally to all of God’s people.
TWOT Number 878.1 TWOT
Psalm 1:5 UBS Handbook: Psalms
1:6 Yahweh knows the way of The way of the righteous extends beyond knowledge to a deep level of understanding (Psa 139:23–24). God cares for and protects His people (31:7–8).
the way of the wicked will perish This can refer to ultimate destruction (9:6; 37:20) or to the frustration of hopes or plans (112:10).
The Psalms include many statements about the wicked ultimately perishing (37:20; 92:7). Even the memory and descendants of God’s enemies will perish (9:6; 21:10). God’s justice includes the destruction of the unrepentant wicked. As a righteous king, God executes judgment on those who oppose Him (9:7–8, 16) and provides safety for those who seek Him (9:9–10).
Justice NBD
The Ways of Wisdom and Folly EBC Ps—So
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About Faithlife Study BibleFaithlife Study Bible (FSB) is your guide to the ancient world of the Old and New Testaments, with study notes and articles that draw from a wide range of academic research. FSB helps you learn how to think about interpretation methods and issues so that you can gain a deeper understanding of the text. |
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