Psalm 112:1

Hallelujah! Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in His commandments.

Study Bible

Hallelujah!
The term "Hallelujah" is a transliteration of the Hebrew phrase "Hallelu Yah," which means "Praise the LORD." This exclamation is a call to worship and adoration, setting the tone for the entire psalm. It is a reminder of the joy and reverence that should accompany our praise. Historically, "Hallelujah" has been used in both Jewish and Christian liturgies, emphasizing the continuity of worship across the ages. It invites believers to join in a chorus of praise that transcends time and culture.

Blessed
The Hebrew word for "blessed" is "ashrei," which conveys a sense of happiness, contentment, and divine favor. In the biblical context, being blessed is not merely about material prosperity but about a deep-seated joy and peace that comes from a right relationship with God. This blessing is a result of living in accordance with God's will and experiencing His presence in one's life. The concept of blessing is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people, as seen throughout the Scriptures.

is the man
The phrase "is the man" highlights the individual who embodies the qualities described in the verse. In Hebrew, "ish" refers to a person, often emphasizing their character and actions. This individual is set apart by their reverence for God and their commitment to His commandments. The psalmist uses this phrase to draw attention to the personal nature of faith and obedience, suggesting that each person is responsible for their own spiritual journey.

who fears the LORD
The "fear of the LORD" is a foundational concept in the Bible, often associated with wisdom and understanding. The Hebrew word "yare" implies a deep respect, reverence, and awe for God. It is not about being afraid of God but recognizing His holiness, majesty, and authority. This fear leads to a life of obedience and devotion, as it acknowledges God's rightful place as the sovereign ruler of the universe. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, as stated in Proverbs 9:10, and it is the guiding principle for a righteous life.

who greatly delights
The phrase "who greatly delights" speaks to the joy and satisfaction found in following God's commandments. The Hebrew word "chaphets" suggests a strong desire or pleasure in something. This delight is not burdensome but is a source of joy and fulfillment. It reflects a heart that is aligned with God's will and finds true happiness in His ways. The psalmist emphasizes that obedience to God is not a duty but a delight, a theme echoed throughout the Scriptures.

in His commandments
The "commandments" refer to the laws and instructions given by God, primarily through the Torah. In Hebrew, "mitzvot" encompasses all of God's directives, which are designed to guide His people in living a holy and righteous life. These commandments are not arbitrary rules but expressions of God's character and His desire for His people to reflect His holiness. The psalmist underscores the importance of God's Word as the foundation for a blessed life, encouraging believers to meditate on and live by His commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Psalmist
The author of Psalm 112, traditionally attributed to King David, who expresses themes of wisdom and righteousness.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, central to the worship and reverence described in the Psalm.

3. The Blessed Man
Represents the individual who fears the LORD and delights in His commandments, embodying the ideal of a righteous life.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Reverence
Fearing the LORD is foundational to a blessed life. It involves a deep respect and awe for God's holiness and authority.

Delighting in God's Commandments
True joy and fulfillment come from aligning our desires with God's will as revealed in His Word. This delight is not burdensome but a source of joy.

The Path to Blessing
The Psalm highlights that blessings are not merely material but are deeply spiritual, rooted in a life that honors God.

Living Out Our Faith
The blessed man is an example of active faith, where reverence for God translates into practical obedience and joy in His commandments.

Cultivating a Heart for God
Encourage a personal relationship with God through regular study and meditation on His Word, fostering a heart that delights in His ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "fear the LORD," and how can this be practically applied in our daily lives?

2. How can we cultivate a genuine delight in God's commandments, especially in a world that often opposes biblical values?

3. In what ways does the concept of being "blessed" in Psalm 112:1 differ from the world's understanding of blessing?

4. How can we ensure that our reverence for God leads to action and obedience, as seen in the life of the blessed man?

5. Reflect on a time when delighting in God's commandments brought you joy or peace. How can this experience encourage you to continue seeking God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 9:10
This verse highlights the fear of the LORD as the beginning of wisdom, connecting to the theme of reverence in Psalm 112:1.

Deuteronomy 6:5-6
These verses emphasize loving God and keeping His commandments, paralleling the delight in God's commandments mentioned in Psalm 112:1.

Matthew 5:6
Jesus speaks of those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, which aligns with the blessedness of delighting in God's commandments.

James 1:25
This verse discusses the blessing of being a doer of the word, similar to the blessedness of the man in Psalm 112:1 who delights in God's commandments.