Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 15
Verses 1-5
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).
Verses 2
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).
Verses 3
3. He neither slanders nor spreads slander.
Verses 4
4. Love and hate are regulated by a regard to God.
sweareth … hurt—or what so results (compare Le 5:4).
Verses 5
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).
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory (1871). Public domain.