Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary PSALM 15
Ps 15:1-5. Those who are fit for communion with God may be known by a conformity to His law, which is illustrated in various important particulars. 1. abide—or, "sojourn" (compare Ps 5:4), where it means under God's protection here, as (Ps 23:6, 27:4, 6) communion. tabernacle—seat of the ark (2Sa 6:17), the symbol of God's presence. holy hill—(Compare Ps 2:6). He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. 2. walketh—(Compare Ps 1:1).
uprightly—in a complete manner, as to all parts of conduct (Ge 17:1), not as to degree. worketh—or, "does." righteousness—what is right. in his heart—sincerely (Pr 23:7). He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. 3. He neither slanders nor spreads slander.
In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. 4. Love and hate are regulated by a regard to God.
sweareth … hurt—or what so results (compare Le 5:4). He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved. 5. (Compare Le 25:37; De 23:19, 20). usury is derived from a verb meaning "to bite." All gains made by the wrongful loss of others are forbidden. taketh reward, &c.—The innocent would not otherwise be condemned (compare Ex 23:8; De 16:19). Bribery of all sorts is denounced. doeth these, &c.—Such persons admitted to God's presence and favor shall never be moved (Ps 10:6; 13:5). |
