King James Version

What Does Psalms 106:3 Mean?

Psalms 106:3 in the King James Version says “Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 106 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times.”

Psalms 106:3 · KJV

Context

1

Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. Praise: Heb. Hallelujah

2

Who can utter the mighty acts of the LORD? who can shew forth all his praise?

3

Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times.

4

Remember me, O LORD, with the favour that thou bearest unto thy people: O visit me with thy salvation;

5

That I may see the good of thy chosen, that I may rejoice in the gladness of thy nation, that I may glory with thine inheritance.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse presents a beatitude defining the blessed life through two parallel actions: keeping judgment and doing righteousness. The word 'Blessed' (Hebrew 'ashrei') indicates deep happiness and divine favor. 'Keep judgment' suggests maintaining justice and right discernment in all circumstances, implying consistency rather than momentary action. 'Doeth righteousness at all times' emphasizes continuous moral action aligned with God's standards. The phrase 'at all times' is particularly significant - it removes any temporal exceptions or situational ethics. This verse establishes that true blessedness comes not from external circumstances but from consistent alignment with God's righteous character. It serves as a stark contrast to Israel's pattern of intermittent obedience described throughout the psalm.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse appears in the context of Israel's historical pattern of obedience and rebellion. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings were expected to 'keep judgment' as administrators of justice. However, this psalm democratizes the responsibility - all who follow the LORD are called to maintain justice. The concept of doing righteousness 'at all times' would have resonated with post-exilic Jews who were rebuilding their identity around covenant faithfulness. The verse echoes themes from Deuteronomy 6:4-9, where obedience to God's commands was to be constant - when sitting, walking, lying down, and rising up. This consistent righteousness was Israel's calling as a holy nation, though the psalm honestly acknowledges their failure to maintain it.

Reflection Questions

  1. What is the relationship between 'keeping judgment' (discernment/justice) and 'doing righteousness' (moral action)?
  2. How is it possible for fallen humans to 'do righteousness at all times,' and what role does God's grace play?
  3. Why does the psalmist place this beatitude immediately after acknowledging God's eternal mercy in the opening verses?
  4. In what practical ways does keeping judgment 'at all times' challenge our tendency toward situational ethics?
  5. How does this standard of continuous righteousness point to humanity's need for a perfect mediator?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
אַ֭שְׁרֵי1 of 7

“Blessed”

H835

happiness; only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy!

שֹׁמְרֵ֣י2 of 7

“are they that keep”

H8104

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

מִשְׁפָּ֑ט3 of 7

“judgment”

H4941

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

עֹשֵׂ֖ה4 of 7

“and he that doeth”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

צְדָקָ֣ה5 of 7

“righteousness”

H6666

rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)

בְכָל6 of 7
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עֵֽת׃7 of 7

“at all times”

H6256

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 106:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 106:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 15:2James 1:25Galatians 6:9John 13:17John 15:14Mark 3:35

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