PSALMS—NOTE ON 1:1 Blessed. From the perspective of the individual, this is a
Study Notes
PSALMS—NOTE ON 1:1–6 This wisdom psalm basically functions as an introduction to the entire book of Psalms. Its theme is as big as the whole Bible because it tells of people, paths, and ultimate destinations (for a significant parallel see Jer. 17:5–8). By two cycles of contrast, Ps. 1 separates all people into their respective spiritual categories:
I. By observation, all people are separated ethically (1:1–4)
A. A Picture of the Godly (1:1–3)
B. A Picture of the Ungodly (1:4) II. By outcome, all people are separated judicially (1:5–6)
A. The Failure of Ungodly People (1:5)
B. The Fruition of Lifestyles (1:6)
1. Recognition of the godly (1:6a) 2. Ruination of the ungodly (1:6b)
PSALMS—NOTE ON 1:1 Blessed. From the perspective of the individual, this is a deep-seated joy and contentment in God; from the perspective of the believing community, it refers to redemptive favor (cf. the blessings and cursings of Deut. 27:11–28:6). walks not . . . nor stands . . . nor sits. The "beatitude" man (cf. Matt. 5:3–11) is first described as one who avoids such associations as these, which exemplify sin's sequential downward drag.
PSALMS—NOTE ON 1:2 his delight is in the law. Switching to a positive description, the spiritually "happy" man is characterized by the consistent contemplation and internalization of God's word for ethical direction and obedience.
PSALMS—NOTE ON 1:3 like a tree. Because of the mostly arid terrain of Israel, a lush tree served as a fitting symbol of blessing in the OT. planted. Lit., "transplanted." Trees do not plant themselves; neither do sinful people transport themselves into God's kingdom. Salvation is his marvelous work of grace (cf. Isa. 61:3; Matt. 15:13). Yet, there is genuine responsibility in appropriating the abundant resources of God (cf. Jer. 17:8), which lead to eventual productivity.
PSALMS—NOTE ON 1:4 The wicked are not so. This is an abrupt contrast, lit.,