Psalms Chapter 15 — Who May Dwell with the Lord?
Psalm 15 outlines the moral characteristics and ethical conduct required for an individual to enter and remain in the presence of God.
1LORD, who shall dwell in your sanctuary?
2He who walks blamelessly and does what is right,
3he who doesn’t slander with his tongue,
4in whose eyes a vile man is despised,
5he who doesn’t lend out his money for usury,
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Psalm 15:1
“LORD, who shall dwell in your sanctuary?”
This opening question establishes the theme of seeking to live in God's presence.
Psalm 15:2
“He who walks blamelessly and does what is right,”
This verse defines the core moral requirements of integrity and righteous action.
Psalm 15:5
“he who doesn’t lend out his money for usury,”
This verse highlights the importance of financial ethics and avoiding the exploitation of others.
Chapter Summary
Psalm 15 is a wisdom psalm that begins with a question about who is worthy to dwell in the sanctuary of the Lord. The text identifies several specific ethical traits instead of ritual requirements for those seeking to live on His holy hill. It emphasizes integrity in speech, noting that one should not slander others with their tongue. The righteous person is described as someone who despises what is vile and avoids corrupt financial practices like usury. The psalm suggests that moral character and honesty in daily dealings are the hallmarks of those who walk blamelessly and do what is right. By focusing on behavior toward others and the rejection of bribery or exploitation, the text defines holiness through a lens of justice and social responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
The psalm begins by asking who is permitted to dwell in the Lord's sanctuary and live on His holy hill. It focuses on the character of the person who is welcome in God's presence.
According to the text, a righteous person does not slander with their tongue. They are characterized by speaking truth and avoiding speech that harms their neighbor.
The psalm states that someone who dwells with God does not lend money for usury. This emphasizes that fair dealing and the absence of exploitation are essential traits of a blameless life.
Study Note
Psalm 15 is often categorized by scholars as an 'entrance liturgy,' reflecting the ethical standards expected of those approaching the sanctuary.
Continue in the App
Get the full experience — immersive audio, instant explanations, highlights, notes, and reading plans.