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15:title–5 This short temple entry psalm—a psalm used when a worshiper would enter the temple—explains Yahweh’s requirements of those who worship Him. It shows characteristics of wisdom psalms in prescribing a proper way of living. It can be divided into two main sections: the initial questions asking who can dwell on Yahweh’s holy hill (v. 1), and the remainder, which answers by describing the required characteristics (vv. 2–5). The requirements are moral conditions that involve the conscience. |
15:title A psalm of David See note on 3:title.
15:1 in your tent The Hebrew word used here, ohel, is a technical term referring to Yahweh’s tabernacle (Exod 26:1–37; 2 Sam 6:17). It is also used to refer to the Temple Mount (Ps 27:4–6). These questions were likely asked by, or of, worshipers visiting the temple or tabernacle of God.
your holy mountain Referring to the Temple Mount, Mount Zion, which was understood to be the dwelling place of Yahweh (43:3).
15:2 blamelessly The Hebrew word used here, tamim, indicates purity or innocence (2 Sam 22:24). It is used to describe God’s word and His Law (Ps 19:7; Deut 32:4). See note on Job 1:1.
what is right The Hebrew word tsedeq can refer to righteousness or justice. See note on Ps 4:1.
He who speaks honestly The Hebrew word used here, emeth, can mean truth or faithfulness; both are characteristics of Yahweh and His law (19:9; 25:5; 86:11; 119:142).
15:3 After listing three things the worshiper should do (Psa 15:2), the psalm lists three things they should avoid. To slander (ragal in Hebrew) someone is to lie about them behind their back (2 Sam 19:27). |
He does not harm The Hebrew word ra'ah can refer to harm or trouble (Job 2:10). Anyone wanting to enter God’s temple must not oppress or harm his neighbor (Lev 19:13; Deut 19:11; Prov 3:28–29).
bring up a disgrace The Hebrew word qarov means to be “close” or “near.” It can describe a nearby city (Gen 19:20) or—as in this case—a close relation (Lev 21:2; Ruth 2:20). The word cherpah refers to a reproach, shame, or disgrace resulting from an action (Gen 34:14; 2 Sam 13:13).
15:4 those who respect Yahweh Anyone desiring to enter God’s tent must have a proper attitude toward others. He should despise vile people and honor those who fear Yahweh (compare note on Ps 11:5).
He takes an oath to his own injury This likely refers to a person paying what they said they would, either at Yahweh’s sanctuary or to other people, even at great financial cost (see Deut 12:4–7, 26). See Eccl 5:4 and note.
Vow BEB
15:5 He does not lend his money at interest Old Testament law forbids charging interest to a fellow Israelite (see Deut 23:19–20).
does not take a bribe Taking a bribe was considered a perversion of justice (Prov 17:23) and was prohibited by ot law. See Exod 23:8 and note.
will never be shaken Fulfilling the requirements of Ps 15:2–5 shows a person’s stability. In the Psalms, the person who is not moved or shaken is described as protected by Yahweh (e.g., 16:8; 62:6; 112:6).
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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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