Psalms 1

Ps 1:1-6.

The character and condition, and the present and future destiny, of the

pious and the wicked are described and contrasted, teaching that true

piety is the source of ultimate happiness, and sin of misery. As this

is a summary of the teachings of the whole book, this Psalm, whether

designedly so placed or not, forms a suitable preface.

1. Blessed--literally, "oh, the happiness"--an exclamation of

strong emotion, as if resulting from reflecting on the subject. The use

of the plural may denote fulness and variety

(2Ch 9:7).

counsel . . . way . . . seat--With their corresponding verbs, mark

gradations of evil, as acting on the principles, cultivating the

society, and permanently conforming to the conduct of the wicked, who

are described by three terms, of which the last is indicative of the

boldest impiety (compare

Ps 26:4, 5;

Jer 15:17).

2. law--all of God's word then written, especially the books of Moses

(compare

Ps 119:1, 55, 97,

&c.).

3. like a tree--

(Jer 17:7, 8).

planted--settled, fast.

the rivers--canals for irrigation.

shall prosper--literally, "make prosper," brings to perfection. The

basis of this condition and character is given

(Ps 32:1).

4. not so--either as to conduct or happiness.

like the chaff--which, by Eastern modes of winnowing against the

wind, was utterly blown away.

5. stand in the judgment--be acquitted. They shall be driven from

among the good

(Mt 25:45, 46).

6. knoweth the way--attends to and provides for them

(Ps 101:6;

Pr 12:10;

Ho 13:5).

way of the wicked--All their plans will end in disappointment and

ruin

(Ps 37:13; 146:8;

Pr 4:19).