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BOOK I Psalms 1–41 The Two Paths (Matthew 5:3–12; Luke 6:20–23) 1Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. 2But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. 3He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does. 4Not so the wicked! For they are like chaff driven off by the wind. 5Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6For the LORD guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 1 Summary The Two Paths Verses 1–2 – The Blessed Path The psalm opens by celebrating the person who avoids the pull of ungodly influences yet finds deep joy in God’s instruction. Refusing to “walk…stand…sit” with the wicked, he anchors his life day and night in the LORD’s Torah—His revealed teaching—so completely that delight, not duty, keeps him coming back for more. Verses 3–4 – The Flourishing Tree The righteous life is pictured as a well-watered tree: rooted, fruitful in season, evergreen in leaf, successful in all God calls him to do. The wicked, by contrast, are chaff—light, rootless, and swept away by the faintest breeze. Verses 5–6 – The Final Outcome Because their lives lack substance, the wicked cannot withstand God’s judgment or join the gathering of the righteous. The LORD personally watches over the way of the righteous, while the path of the wicked unavoidably collapses. Psalms 1 is a beautiful, powerful, and deeply introspective chapter in the Book of Psalms. It forms an important philosophical and theological framework for the rest of the Psalms. The chapter vividly contrasts the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked, setting out the rewards for following the Law of the Lord and the consequences of wickedness. Authorship and Placement Psalm 1 is anonymous yet purposely set as the doorway to the Psalter. By highlighting two opposing paths, it frames every subsequent psalm: worship only makes sense when a heart is separated from evil and rooted in God’s truth (Psalm 24:3–4). Literary Structure • Three parallel actions of separation (walk, stand, sit) • Two delights (wicked counsel vs. God’s law) • One vivid contrast (tree vs. chaff) • Two destinies (watched over vs. perish) Hebrew poetry uses repetition and contrast rather than rhyme. The relentless rhythm underlines that every life is heading somewhere. Key Word Pictures • “Blessed” (’ashre) – speaks of fulfilled happiness that flows from God, echoing Deuteronomy 33:29. • “Law” (Torah) – broader than legal codes; it means instruction, guidance, the whole revealed will of God. • “Meditates” (hagah) – murmuring, pondering aloud, mulling over until Scripture shapes reflex thoughts (Joshua 1:8). Historical and Cultural Background Israel was a covenant community surrounded by nations steeped in idolatry (Judges 2:11-13). Refusal to adopt their worldview safeguarded Israel’s witness. This psalm likely drew on agrarian scenes familiar to anyone who had watched wadis run dry except where irrigation channels carried constant water. Archaeological Insights Excavations at sites like Tel Beersheba show ancient water systems that kept orchards alive through arid seasons. Such channels illustrate “streams of water,” a deliberate, irrigated supply rather than a random rainfall. The psalm’s readers would connect this image to a life intentionally fed by God’s word. The Gateway Theme Across Scripture 1. Joshua 1:8 – “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth…then you will prosper.” 2. Jeremiah 17:7-8 – tree planted by the water, leaves always green. 3. Proverbs 4:14-15 – avoid the path of the wicked; do not stand or walk in it. 4. Matthew 7:13-14 – narrow gate vs. broad road that leads to destruction. 5. Revelation 22:2 – tree of life bearing fruit each month by the river of life. Messianic Glimpse Jesus embodies the righteous man of Psalm 1. Tempted in the wilderness, He refused ungodly counsel (Matthew 4:1-11). His delight in the Father’s will made Him the fruitful vine (John 15:1-5). At the cross He stood in the judgment for sinners so that we, in Him, “do not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Instruction for Everyday Living • Choose influencers wisely: what we consume shapes how we think, which shapes how we live. • Make Scripture a daily feast: schedule it, read it aloud, jot notes, sing it—delight grows with exposure. • Expect steady growth, not instant results: fruit in “season” comes after hidden root work. • Evaluate success by God’s approval, not rapid visibility: a tree’s greatness is often underground. Contrasts Worth Noting Righteous – Planted, productive, prosperous, preserved Wicked – Rootless, empty, ineffective, erased Practical Checklist 1. Identify one “counsel of the wicked” voice to silence this week (media, relationship, habit). 2. Replace it with specific time meditating on a passage—start with Psalm 1 itself. 3. Track visible “leaves” of spiritual health: kindness, patience, steady joy. Final Encouragement Psalm 1 is not merely advice; it is a promise. “For the LORD knows the way of the righteous” (1:6). He watches, guards, and delights in the one who delights in Him. Root down, drink deeply, and let your life grow green in every season. Connections to Additional Scriptures Joshua 1:8 This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do. Jeremiah 17:7-8 But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the waters that sends out its roots toward the stream. Matthew 7:13-14 Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it. Teaching Points The Blessed Man Psalm 1:1-2 describes the blessed man as one who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. Instead, his delight is in the law of the LORD, and he meditates on it day and night. The Righteous vs. the Wicked The psalm contrasts two paths: the way of the righteous, who are like a tree planted by streams of water (v. 3), and the way of the wicked, who are like chaff that the wind drives away (v. 4). The Outcome of Each Path The righteous will prosper in all they do (v. 3), while the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous (v. 5). God's Sovereignty The LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish (v. 6). Practical Applications Evaluate Your Influences Consider who or what influences your decisions and lifestyle. Are you walking in the counsel of the wicked, or are you seeking guidance from God's Word? Delight in God's Word Make it a daily practice to read and meditate on Scripture. Find joy and satisfaction in God's teachings. Root Yourself in Christ Like a tree planted by streams of water, ensure your life is deeply rooted in Christ, drawing nourishment and strength from Him. Reflect on Your Path Regularly assess whether your life aligns with the path of the righteous or the wicked. Make necessary adjustments to follow God's way. People 1. The Blessed Man Description: This person is described as one who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. Instead, his delight is in the law of the LORD, and he meditates on it day and night. The Hebrew word for "blessed" (אַשְׁרֵי, 'ashrei) conveys a sense of happiness or contentment that comes from following God's ways. 2. The Wicked Description: The wicked are those who do not follow God's law and are contrasted with the blessed man. They are described as being like chaff that the wind drives away, indicating their lack of stability and substance. The Hebrew word for "wicked" (רְשָׁעִים, resha'im) refers to those who are guilty or morally wrong. 3. Sinners Description: Sinners are those who miss the mark of God's standards and are associated with wrongdoing. They are mentioned as a group whose path the blessed man avoids. The Hebrew word for "sinners" (חַטָּאִים, chatta'im) implies habitual sinning or a lifestyle of sin. 4. Mockers Description: Mockers are those who scorn or ridicule, often showing contempt for God's ways. The blessed man does not sit in their seat, indicating he does not associate with or adopt their attitudes. The Hebrew word for "mockers" (לֵצִים, leitzim) suggests arrogance and disdain. Places 1. The Counsel of the Wicked This is not a physical location but a metaphorical place representing the influence and advice of those who do not follow God's ways. The Hebrew word for "wicked" is "רְשָׁעִים" (reshayim), indicating those who are morally wrong or guilty. 2. The Path of Sinners Again, this is metaphorical, referring to the lifestyle or way of living that is contrary to God's law. The Hebrew word for "sinners" is "חַטָּאִים" (chatta'im), meaning those who miss the mark or fall short of God's standards. 3. The Seat of Mockers This represents a place of scorn or derision, where those who ridicule or scoff at righteousness gather. The Hebrew word for "mockers" is "לֵצִים" (letsim), which refers to those who are scornful or derisive. 4. Streams of Water This is a positive metaphorical place, symbolizing nourishment and life. It describes the blessed state of the righteous, who are like a tree planted by streams of water, drawing sustenance and thriving. The Hebrew word for "streams" is "פַּלְגֵי" (palgei), meaning channels or divisions of water. Events 1. Blessing of the Righteous "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit in the seat of mockers." The Hebrew word for "blessed" (אַשְׁרֵי, 'ashrei) implies a state of happiness or contentment. The righteous person avoids the influence and company of the wicked, sinners, and mockers. 2. Delight in the Law of the LORD "But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night." The righteous find joy in the "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah), which refers to God's instruction or teaching. Meditation (הָגָה, hagah) suggests a deep, continuous reflection. 3. Stability and Prosperity of the Righteous "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does." The imagery of a tree (עֵץ, 'etz) by water symbolizes stability, nourishment, and fruitfulness. The righteous are sustained and successful in their endeavors. 4. Fate of the Wicked "Not so the wicked! For they are like chaff driven off by the wind." In contrast, the wicked are compared to "chaff" (מֹץ, mots), the worthless husks separated from grain, easily blown away, indicating instability and lack of substance. 5. Judgment and Separation "Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous." The wicked will not endure (קוּם, qum) in the time of judgment, nor will they be part of the community of the righteous, highlighting a separation based on moral standing. 6. The LORD's Knowledge of the Righteous "For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish." The LORD's "knowledge" (יָדַע, yada) implies an intimate, caring awareness of the righteous, while the path of the wicked leads to destruction (אָבַד, 'avad). Lessons from Psalm 1 1. The Blessing of Righteousness Psalm 1 opens with a promise: "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked" (Psalm 1:1). This verse sets the stage for understanding that true happiness and fulfillment come from living a life aligned with God's will. By avoiding the influence of those who stray from God's path, we position ourselves to receive His blessings. It's a reminder that our choices matter and that righteousness leads to a life of joy and peace. 2. The Power of Delight in God's Law The psalmist emphasizes the importance of delighting in the law of the Lord: "But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night" (Psalm 1:2). This isn't about mere obligation; it's about finding joy and satisfaction in God's Word. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we gain wisdom and strength to navigate life's challenges. Let the Bible be your daily guide and source of inspiration. 3. The Stability of a Well-Planted Life "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does" (Psalm 1:3). This vivid imagery illustrates the stability and fruitfulness that come from a life rooted in God's truth. Just as a tree thrives when nourished by water, we flourish when we draw sustenance from God's Word. Stay grounded in Scripture, and you'll find resilience in every season. 4. The Contrast of the Wicked In stark contrast, the wicked are described as "chaff that the wind blows away" (Psalm 1:4). This imagery highlights the fleeting and unstable nature of a life disconnected from God. Without a solid foundation, the wicked are easily swept away by life's trials. It's a sobering reminder to build our lives on the eternal truths of Scripture, ensuring that we stand firm when challenges arise. 5. The Certainty of Divine Judgment Psalm 1:5 warns, "Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous". This verse underscores the reality of divine judgment and the separation between the righteous and the wicked. It's a call to examine our lives and align ourselves with God's standards. By living righteously, we can stand confidently before God, knowing that our salvation is secure in Christ. 6. The Lord's Knowledge of the Righteous "For the LORD guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish" (Psalm 1:6). This assurance of God's protection and guidance is a source of comfort and encouragement. God knows and cares for those who follow Him, providing direction and security. Trust in His sovereignty and rest in the knowledge that He is actively involved in your life. 7. The Importance of Choosing the Right Path Psalm 1 presents a clear choice between two paths: one leading to life and the other to destruction. This choice is echoed throughout Scripture, reminding us of the importance of our decisions. By choosing the path of righteousness, we align ourselves with God's purposes and experience the abundant life He offers. Reflect on your choices and ensure they lead you closer to Him. 8. The Joy of Spiritual Growth As we meditate on God's Word, we experience spiritual growth and transformation. Psalm 1 encourages us to be intentional about our spiritual journey, seeking to grow in our relationship with God. This growth brings joy and fulfillment, as we become more like Christ and reflect His love to the world. Embrace the process of growth and let God's Word shape your life. 9. The Influence of Godly Companionship The psalmist warns against walking in the counsel of the wicked, highlighting the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly influences. Our companions can significantly impact our spiritual journey, either drawing us closer to God or leading us astray. Choose friends who encourage and challenge you in your faith, and be a positive influence in the lives of others. 10. The Promise of Eternal Reward Ultimately, Psalm 1 points us to the eternal reward awaiting those who follow God's path. The blessings of righteousness extend beyond this life, offering the promise of eternal life with God. This hope motivates us to persevere in our faith, knowing that our labor is not in vain. Keep your eyes on the eternal prize and live each day with the assurance of God's promises. Topics 1. The Blessedness of the Righteous Psalm 1 begins by describing the blessedness of the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked. The Hebrew word for "blessed" (אַשְׁרֵי, 'esher) conveys a sense of happiness and contentment that comes from living in accordance with God's will. The verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding the influence of the wicked, sinners, and mockers. 2. Delight in the Law of the LORD The righteous person is characterized by their delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. The Hebrew word for "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah) refers to God's instruction and guidance. This meditation is not a passive activity but an active engagement with God's word, reflecting a deep love and reverence for His commandments. 3. The Stability and Prosperity of the Righteous The righteous are likened to a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in its season and whose leaf does not wither. This imagery highlights the stability, nourishment, and prosperity that come from a life rooted in God's word. The Hebrew word for "planted" (שָׁתוּל, shatul) suggests intentional placement and care by God. 4. The Fate of the Wicked In contrast to the righteous, the wicked are described as chaff that the wind drives away. This metaphor illustrates the instability and lack of substance in the lives of those who reject God's ways. The Hebrew word for "wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha) denotes those who are morally wrong and guilty before God. 5. The Judgment and Separation The psalm concludes with a depiction of the final judgment, where the wicked will not stand in the assembly of the righteous. This separation underscores the ultimate consequences of one's choices and the divine justice that will prevail. The Hebrew word for "stand" (קוּם, qum) implies being able to endure or remain, which the wicked cannot do in the presence of God's judgment. 6. The LORD's Knowledge of the Righteous The LORD is said to know the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. The Hebrew word for "know" (יָדַע, yada) conveys an intimate, personal knowledge and care that God has for those who follow His path. This assurance of divine oversight provides comfort and confidence to the righteous. Themes 1. The Blessedness of the Righteous Psalm 1 begins with the word "Blessed" (Hebrew: אַשְׁרֵי, 'ashrei'), highlighting the happiness and favor bestowed upon those who live righteously. The psalm describes the blessed man as one who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers (Psalm 1:1). 2. Delight in the Law of the Lord The righteous find joy and satisfaction in God's law, meditating on it day and night (Psalm 1:2). The Hebrew word for "law" is תּוֹרָה (torah), which encompasses God's teachings and instructions. This theme emphasizes the importance of Scripture in guiding one's life. 3. The Stability and Prosperity of the Righteous The psalm compares the righteous to a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither (Psalm 1:3). This imagery signifies spiritual vitality, stability, and prosperity, rooted in a life aligned with God's will. 4. The Transience of the Wicked In contrast to the righteous, the wicked are likened to chaff blown away by the wind (Psalm 1:4). This metaphor underscores the instability and ultimate futility of a life lived apart from God. 5. The Judgment of the Wicked The psalm warns that the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous (Psalm 1:5). This theme highlights the inevitable divine judgment and separation between the righteous and the wicked. 6. The Lord's Knowledge and Care for the Righteous The psalm concludes with the assurance that "the LORD knows the way of the righteous" (Psalm 1:6). The Hebrew word יָדַע (yada) implies an intimate, caring knowledge, indicating God's protective oversight and approval of the righteous path. 7. The Perishing of the Wicked Finally, the psalm contrasts the enduring way of the righteous with the perishing way of the wicked (Psalm 1:6). This theme serves as a sobering reminder of the ultimate consequences of rejecting God's ways. Prayer Points Pray for Discernment Ask God for wisdom to discern the influences in your life and the strength to choose His way over the world's. Pray for a Love for Scripture Request a deep love and hunger for God's Word, that you may delight in it and meditate on it daily. Pray for Righteous Living Seek God's guidance to live a life that reflects His righteousness and brings glory to His name. Pray for Protection Ask for God's protection over your path, that you may remain steadfast and not be swayed by the ways of the wicked. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Psalm 1:3, which promises the righteous will prosper, align with the observable reality that many devout believers still suffer hardships? 2. Why does Psalm 1:4–5 suggest the wicked will be swiftly judged when history and current events show corrupt individuals often thriving? 3. If Psalm 1:2 calls for constant meditation on God’s law, how was this even possible in ancient societies with low literacy rates or in modern times with busy lifestyles? 4. How can Psalm 1’s vision of immediate justice be reconciled with biblical accounts like Job, where the righteous suffer while the wicked seem to prosper? 5. Is there historical or archaeological evidence to confirm the authorship or original placement of Psalm 1 within the Psalms, and does that impact its interpretation? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalms 1 illustrate the difference between the life of the righteous and the wicked? 2. How can meditating on the law of the Lord bring prosperity to one's life? 3. How does the imagery of a tree and chaff help illustrate the concepts of righteousness and wickedness? 4. How does Psalms 1 inform your understanding of divine judgment? 5. How can Psalms 1 guide you in your personal choices? 6. How does this Psalm define the "way of the wicked" and "way of the righteous"? 7. How can the principles in Psalms 1 be applied in your daily life? 8. What practical steps can you take to "delight in the law of the Lord" as mentioned in the Psalm? 9. How does this Psalm challenge your understanding of what it means to lead a righteous life? 10. In the context of modern society, how can we interpret the "assembly of the righteous"? 11. How can we ensure we're more like the tree planted by streams of water and not the chaff driven by the wind? 12. How does the depiction of divine judgment in Psalms 1 impact your perception of God's nature? 13. How does the Psalm reassure you about God's care for the righteous? 14. What aspects of modern life might lead someone away from the path of the righteous, and how can they be countered? 15. How might the blessings of the righteous and the fate of the wicked look in a modern context? 16. How does Psalms 1 resonate with your personal experiences? 17. How can the Psalm's teachings influence your interactions with others? 18. How do you feel after reading this Psalm, and why do you think you feel that way? 19. What role does choice play in the fate of the righteous and the wicked as described in the Psalm? 20. How can the Psalm's teachings guide you in times of moral or ethical dilemmas? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions