Text of Psalm 15 (World English Bible)
A Psalm by David.
1 Yahweh, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
2 He who walks blamelessly and does what is right,
and speaks truth in his heart;
3 he who doesn’t slander with his tongue,
nor does evil to his friend,
nor casts slurs against his fellow man;
4 in whose eyes a vile man is despised,
but who honors those who fear Yahweh;
he who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and doesn’t change;
5 he 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.
Background and Related Details for Psalm 15
Psalm 15 is a short but profound psalm written by King David. It is often considered a “liturgical psalm” because it describes the moral and ethical requirements of those who desire to dwell in God’s presence, specifically in His “sanctuary” or “holy hill” (a reference to Mount Zion in Jerusalem, where the temple stood).
1. Historical Context:
- This psalm was likely used in worship at the temple as a means of self-examination. Worshipers might reflect on their lives before entering the sanctuary to offer sacrifices or worship.
- The “sanctuary” could refer both to the physical temple and, symbolically, to the presence of God. In David’s time, this would have been closely associated with the tabernacle or later the temple on Mount Zion.
2. Themes:
- Moral Integrity: The psalm highlights the traits of a godly person—blamelessness, truthfulness, respect for others, and unwavering commitment.
- Right Relationships: It emphasizes how we treat others—rejecting slander, refusing to exploit or harm others, and avoiding corruption.
- Faithfulness to God: The psalm exalts honoring God, fearing Him, and valuing His standards above all else.
3. Literary Style:
- This psalm is structured like a Q&A. The opening question (verse 1) asks who may dwell with God, and the following verses provide the answer in a list of virtues.
- The psalm concludes with a promise of security for those who live according to these principles: “He who does these things shall never be shaken” (verse 5).
4. Connection to Wisdom Literature:
Psalm 15 shares themes with Proverbs and the wisdom literature, focusing on how to live a godly and ethical life.
Prayer Based on Psalm 15
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with humble hearts, longing to dwell in Your presence. Teach us to walk blamelessly, to speak truth, and to act with integrity. Guard our tongues from slander, and help us to treat others with kindness and respect. May we honor those who fear You and remain faithful even when it costs us. Keep us free from greed, corruption, and selfishness. Shape us into people who reflect Your holiness, so that we may stand firm and unshaken in Your love.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
5 Questions to Test Your Understanding of Psalm 15
- What question does David ask in the first verse of Psalm 15?
- Name three characteristics of a person who is qualified to “dwell in God’s sanctuary” according to Psalm 15.
- What does Psalm 15 say about speaking truth and avoiding slander?
- How does the psalm describe a person’s relationship with money and justice?
- What is the promise given at the end of Psalm 15 to those who live according to its principles?
Is Psalm 15 Referenced in the New Testament?
Psalm 15 is not explicitly quoted in the New Testament, but its principles are echoed throughout. For example:
- Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7): Many of the ethical and moral behaviors listed in Psalm 15 align with the Beatitudes and Jesus’ teachings about how to live as a citizen of God’s kingdom.
- James 1:26-27: James emphasizes controlling the tongue and living an uncorrupted, righteous life, which mirrors Psalm 15’s call to blameless living.
- 1 Peter 1:15-16: The call to holiness in Peter’s letter reflects the same desire for integrity and righteousness seen in Psalm 15.
While not directly cited, Psalm 15’s themes of integrity, justice, and faithfulness resonate throughout New Testament teaching about the character of those who live in fellowship with God.