Blessed
The Hebrew word for "blessed" is "אַשְׁרֵי" (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 word sets the tone for the entire Psalm, indicating that the following instructions are a pathway to true happiness and fulfillment in life. The concept of blessing in the Bible often involves a covenant relationship with God, where obedience and faithfulness lead to divine favor.

is the man
This phrase emphasizes the individual responsibility and personal nature of the relationship with God. In Hebrew, "הָאִישׁ" (ha'ish) refers to a person, highlighting that the blessings of God are available to anyone who chooses to follow His ways. It underscores the personal decision each person must make to walk in righteousness. Historically, this reflects the biblical understanding that while God deals with nations, He also intimately knows and blesses individuals who seek Him.

who walks not
The verb "walks" (הָלַךְ, halak) in Hebrew is often used metaphorically to describe one's way of life or conduct. It suggests a continuous, habitual action. The negative "not" indicates a deliberate choice to avoid certain behaviors. This phrase implies that the blessed person consciously chooses a path that avoids evil and aligns with God's will. Walking in biblical terms often symbolizes living according to God's commandments and statutes.

in the counsel of the wicked
"Counsel" (עֵצָה, etzah) refers to advice, plans, or purposes. The "wicked" (רְשָׁעִים, resha'im) are those who live in opposition to God's laws. This phrase warns against adopting the mindset or advice of those who reject God's authority. Historically, Israel was often led astray by following the counsel of ungodly nations, and this serves as a reminder to seek wisdom from God rather than from those who do not honor Him.

nor stands in the way of sinners
"Stands" (עָמַד, amad) suggests taking a position or being stationary, indicating a more deliberate association than merely walking. "The way" (דֶּרֶךְ, derek) refers to a path or lifestyle. "Sinners" (חַטָּאִים, chatta'im) are those who miss the mark of God's standards. This phrase warns against becoming entrenched in sinful behaviors or lifestyles. It reflects the biblical teaching that association with sin can lead to spiritual stagnation and separation from God.

nor sits in the seat of mockers
"Sits" (יָשַׁב, yashav) implies dwelling or abiding, suggesting a settled state of being. "The seat" (מוֹשָׁב, moshav) can refer to a dwelling place or assembly. "Mockers" (לֵצִים, letzim) are those who scorn or ridicule what is holy. This phrase represents the final stage of spiritual decline, where one not only participates in sin but also openly ridicules righteousness. In the biblical context, mockers are often portrayed as those who are hardened in their rebellion against God, and this serves as a warning to avoid such company.

But his delight
The Hebrew word for "delight" is "חֵפֶץ" (chephets), which conveys a sense of pleasure, desire, or longing. In the context of Psalm 1:2, it suggests a deep, abiding joy and satisfaction found in the object of delight. This word indicates that the righteous person finds genuine pleasure in the law of the Lord, contrasting with the fleeting pleasures of the wicked. Historically, this delight is not merely an emotional response but a committed choice to find joy in God's instructions, reflecting a heart aligned with divine will.

is in the law of the LORD
The term "law" here is "תּוֹרָה" (torah), which can be understood as instruction or teaching. It encompasses more than just legalistic commands; it includes the entire body of divine guidance given to Israel. The "LORD" is the covenant name of God, "יהוה" (Yahweh), emphasizing a personal relationship with the divine. In ancient Israel, the Torah was central to life and worship, serving as a guide for righteous living. The psalmist highlights that the righteous person not only obeys but cherishes God's teachings, seeing them as a source of wisdom and life.

and on His law
Reiterating the focus on God's law, this phrase underscores the importance of continuous engagement with divine instruction. The repetition emphasizes the centrality of God's word in the life of the believer. In the historical context, the law was read and meditated upon regularly, forming the foundation of spiritual and communal life. This ongoing interaction with the law signifies a commitment to understanding and applying God's will in every aspect of life.

he meditates
The Hebrew word "הָגָה" (hagah) means to murmur, ponder, or reflect deeply. Meditation in this sense is an active, intentional process of engaging with the text, allowing it to permeate one's thoughts and actions. Unlike Eastern meditation, which often seeks to empty the mind, biblical meditation involves filling the mind with God's truth. Historically, this practice was integral to Jewish spirituality, involving recitation and reflection on scripture to internalize its teachings.

day and night
This phrase signifies constancy and dedication, indicating that meditation on God's law is not a sporadic activity but a continual practice. "Day and night" suggests an all-encompassing devotion, where the believer's life is saturated with God's word. In the ancient Near Eastern context, this would mean integrating the law into daily routines and decisions, ensuring that one's life is consistently aligned with divine principles. This perpetual meditation reflects a life wholly devoted to God, seeking His guidance and wisdom at all times.

He is like a tree
The imagery of a tree is a powerful symbol in biblical literature, representing life, growth, and stability. In Hebrew, the word for tree is "עֵץ" (etz), which is often used to signify strength and endurance. Trees are deeply rooted, drawing sustenance from the earth, much like a righteous person draws spiritual nourishment from God. This metaphor suggests that a person who delights in the law of the Lord is firmly established and resilient, able to withstand life's challenges.

planted by streams of water
The phrase "planted by streams of water" evokes the image of a tree intentionally placed in a location where it can thrive. The Hebrew word for "planted" is "שָׁתוּל" (shatul), indicating a deliberate act of positioning. This suggests that the righteous are not left to chance but are purposefully situated by God in environments where they can flourish. The "streams of water" symbolize the constant and life-giving presence of God's Word and Spirit, providing the necessary resources for spiritual growth and vitality.

yielding its fruit in season
The concept of yielding fruit "in season" highlights the natural and timely productivity of a life rooted in God. The Hebrew word for "yielding" is "יִתֵּן" (yitten), which implies giving or producing. This suggests that a righteous person will naturally produce good works and virtues at the appropriate time, as a result of their connection to God. The idea of "in season" underscores the importance of patience and timing in the spiritual life, recognizing that growth and fruitfulness occur according to God's perfect timing.

whose leaf does not wither
The phrase "whose leaf does not wither" speaks to the enduring vitality and resilience of the righteous. In Hebrew, "wither" is "יִבּוֹל" (yibbol), which means to fade or decay. This imagery suggests that those who are rooted in God remain vibrant and alive, even in adverse conditions. The unfading leaf symbolizes the perpetual freshness and vigor of a life sustained by God's presence, contrasting with the temporary and fragile nature of worldly pursuits.

and who prospers in all he does
The final phrase, "and who prospers in all he does," conveys the idea of success and well-being in every aspect of life. The Hebrew word for "prospers" is "יַצְלִיחַ" (yatsliach), which means to succeed or thrive. This prosperity is not merely material but encompasses spiritual and moral dimensions, reflecting a life aligned with God's will. The assurance of prosperity in all endeavors underscores the comprehensive blessing that comes from living a life rooted in God's Word and guided by His principles.

Not so the wicked
This phrase sets a stark contrast between the righteous and the wicked. In Hebrew, the word for "wicked" is "רְשָׁעִים" (resha'im), which refers to those who are morally wrong, guilty, or hostile to God. The phrase "not so" emphasizes the complete divergence in the path and destiny of the wicked compared to the righteous. Historically, the wicked are those who reject God's law and guidance, choosing instead a path of self-reliance and rebellion. This distinction is crucial in the wisdom literature of the Bible, where the outcomes of the righteous and the wicked are often contrasted.

For they are like chaff
The imagery of "chaff" is powerful and evocative. Chaff is the husk or outer shell of grain that is separated and discarded during the threshing process. In Hebrew, "מֹץ" (motz) signifies something that is worthless and easily blown away. This metaphor illustrates the instability and lack of substance in the lives of the wicked. Unlike the righteous, who are compared to a fruitful tree, the wicked have no root or permanence. Archaeological findings from ancient threshing floors reveal the process of winnowing, where chaff is separated from the grain, underscoring the idea of judgment and separation.

Driven away by the wind
The phrase "driven away by the wind" further emphasizes the transience and instability of the wicked. In the ancient Near East, wind was often seen as a force of nature that could scatter and destroy. The Hebrew word "תִּדְּפֶנּוּ" (tiddofennu) conveys the idea of being pursued or chased away. Scripturally, wind is sometimes used as a symbol of divine judgment or the breath of God executing His will. The wicked, lacking the rootedness and stability of the righteous, are at the mercy of external forces, illustrating their ultimate fate of being removed from God's presence and blessing.

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous
Therefore
This word serves as a conclusion or result of the preceding verses. In the context of Psalm 1, it connects the fate of the wicked to their actions and choices. The Hebrew word used here is "עַל־כֵּן" (al-ken), which implies a logical consequence. The psalmist is emphasizing that the moral and spiritual laws established by God are unchanging and that the outcomes for the wicked are inevitable due to their rejection of God's ways.

the wicked
The term "wicked" is translated from the Hebrew word "רְשָׁעִים" (reshayim), which refers to those who are morally wrong, guilty, or hostile toward God. In the biblical context, the wicked are those who live in opposition to God's commandments and are characterized by their sinful behavior. This term is often used throughout the Psalms to contrast with the righteous, highlighting the moral dichotomy present in the world.

will not stand
The phrase "will not stand" comes from the Hebrew "לֹא־יָקֻמוּ" (lo yaqumu), indicating an inability to endure or remain firm. In the context of judgment, it suggests that the wicked will not be able to withstand the scrutiny and justice of God. This imagery evokes a courtroom setting where the wicked are unable to justify themselves before the divine Judge, leading to their ultimate downfall.

in the judgment
"Judgment" here is translated from the Hebrew word "בַּמִּשְׁפָּט" (bamishpat), which refers to a legal decision or verdict. In the biblical sense, it encompasses both temporal and eternal judgment. The psalmist is pointing to a future time when God will execute justice, separating the righteous from the wicked. This concept is deeply rooted in the Jewish understanding of divine justice and accountability.

nor sinners
"Sinners" is derived from the Hebrew "וְחַטָּאִים" (vechata'im), referring to those who miss the mark or fall short of God's standards. While similar to "wicked," this term emphasizes the habitual nature of sinning. The psalmist is underscoring that those who persist in sin without repentance will not find a place among the righteous.

in the assembly
The word "assembly" comes from the Hebrew "בַּעֲדַת" (ba'adat), meaning a gathering or congregation. This term often refers to the community of God's people, those who are in covenant relationship with Him. The psalmist is highlighting the exclusion of sinners from this sacred community, emphasizing the purity and holiness required to be part of God's people.

of the righteous
"Righteous" is translated from the Hebrew "צַדִּיקִים" (tzaddikim), referring to those who are just, virtuous, and in right standing with God. The righteous are those who live according to God's laws and seek to honor Him in their lives. This term is central to the biblical narrative, representing the ideal of a life lived in harmony with God's will. The psalmist concludes by affirming the ultimate separation between those who follow God and those who reject Him, underscoring the eternal consequences of one's choices.

For the LORD
The term "LORD" in Hebrew is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His personal relationship with His people. This name is a reminder of God's faithfulness and His role as the sovereign ruler over all creation. In the context of Psalm 1, it underscores the divine authority and omniscience of God, who is intimately involved in the lives of the righteous.

knows
The Hebrew word used here is "yada," which goes beyond mere intellectual awareness. It implies an intimate, experiential knowledge. This suggests that God is not only aware of the actions of the righteous but is deeply involved in their lives, guiding and sustaining them. This knowledge is protective and nurturing, indicating a relationship that is both personal and profound.

the way of the righteous
"The way" refers to the path or lifestyle that one chooses. In biblical terms, the "righteous" are those who live in accordance with God's laws and commandments. This phrase highlights the moral and ethical choices that align with God's will. The righteous are characterized by their commitment to God's word, their pursuit of holiness, and their desire to live in a manner that pleases God.

but the way of the wicked
In contrast to the righteous, the "wicked" are those who reject God's laws and live in opposition to His will. The "way of the wicked" represents a lifestyle that is self-centered, rebellious, and ultimately destructive. This phrase serves as a warning about the consequences of living apart from God's guidance and grace.

will perish
The Hebrew word "abad" conveys the idea of being lost, destroyed, or coming to ruin. This is not merely a physical death but a spiritual and eternal separation from God. The fate of the wicked is contrasted with the security and blessing of the righteous. This serves as a sobering reminder of the ultimate consequences of one's choices and the importance of aligning one's life with God's will.