Psalm 1

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Saint Louis Psalter 30 verso

Psalm 1 is the first chapter of the Book of Psalms in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. It is often referred to as a wisdom psalm and serves as an introduction to the entire Psalter. The psalm contrasts the way of the righteous with the way of the wicked, emphasizing the blessings of the righteous and the ultimate destruction of the wicked.

Text

Psalm 1 is composed of six verses. The text is traditionally divided into two parts: the description of the righteous man (verses 1-3) and the fate of the wicked (verses 4-6).

Verses 1-3

The first three verses describe the characteristics and blessings of the righteous man: Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.

Verses 4-6

The last three verses contrast the fate of the wicked: Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

Themes

Psalm 1 introduces key themes that recur throughout the Book of Psalms, including the importance of Torah (law), the contrast between the righteous and the wicked, and the idea of divine justice. The psalm emphasizes the blessings that come from following God's law and the ultimate futility of wickedness.

Structure

The structure of Psalm 1 is chiastic, meaning it follows a pattern of A-B-B-A. This structure highlights the contrast between the righteous and the wicked:

• A: The way of the righteous (verses 1-3)
• B: The fate of the wicked (verses 4-5)
• A: The way of the righteous (verse 6a)
• B: The fate of the wicked (verse 6b)

Usage in Worship

Psalm 1 is used in both Jewish and Christian liturgies. In Judaism, it is recited during certain prayers and services. In Christianity, it is often read or sung as part of the Liturgy of the Hours and other worship services.

Commentary

Many biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Psalm 1, noting its role as an introduction to the Psalter and its emphasis on the importance of following God's law. The imagery of the tree planted by streams of water is often highlighted as a symbol of spiritual nourishment and stability.

See Also

• Book of Psalms
• Wisdom literature
• Torah
• Divine justice
• Liturgy of the Hours