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Psalms 15

Who May Dwell on God's Holy Hill?

1LORD, who shall dwell in your sanctuary? Who shall live on your holy hill?

2He who walks blamelessly and does what is right, and speaks truth in his heart;

3he who doesn’t slander with his tongue, nor does evil to his friend, nor casts slurs against his fellow man;

4in whose eyes a vile man is despised, but who honors those who fear the LORD; he who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and doesn’t change;

5he who doesn’t lend out his money for usury, nor take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be shaken.

Previous Psalms 14
Next Psalms 16

Psalm 15 presents a moral catechism that asks who is worthy to dwell in God's presence and provides a comprehensive answer through ethical requirements. The psalmist outlines both positive virtues (blameless conduct, truthfulness, honoring the faithful) and negative prohibitions (avoiding slander, usury, and bribery) that characterize those who may approach God's sanctuary. This wisdom psalm concludes with the promise that those who live by these standards will enjoy divine stability and security.

Context

This entrance liturgy follows Psalm 14's depiction of human corruption, offering a positive counterpoint by describing the righteous character God desires.

Key Themes

Outline

  • 1
    The Question of Access The psalmist poses the fundamental question of who may dwell in God's sanctuary and holy hill.
  • 2-3
    Personal Integrity Requirements Lists foundational character traits including blameless living, righteousness, truthfulness, and avoiding harmful speech.
  • 4-5a
    Social and Financial Ethics Describes proper relationships with others, including discernment in associations, oath-keeping, and fair financial dealings.
  • 5b
    The Promise of Stability Concludes with assurance that those meeting these moral standards will never be shaken.

Who May Dwell on God's Holy Hill?

15:1–15:5
poetry instruction contemplative

A psalm outlining the moral and ethical requirements for dwelling in God's presence, emphasizing blameless conduct, truthfulness, and integrity in relationships.

theme_rarity

Psalm 15's Hebrew word "tamim" (blameless) appears in only three other psalms, creating a rare biblical portrait of moral perfection required for temple worship.

Insights

Insight Rare Theme

Psalm 15's Hebrew word "tamim" (blameless) appears in only three other psalms, creating a rare biblical portrait of moral perfection required for temple worship.

About: Who May Dwell on God's Holy Hill?

Interlinear

Word-by-word original language

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