King James Version

What Does Psalms 15:3 Mean?

Psalms 15:3 in the King James Version says “He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour....” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. taketh: or, receiveth, or, endureth”

Psalms 15:3 · KJV

Context

1

A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? abide: Heb. sojourn

2

He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.

3

He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. taketh: or, receiveth, or, endureth

4

In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.

5

He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.

Read Psalms 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse describes the righteous person's speech ethics: no slander ('ragal' - going about as a talebearer), no evil to a neighbor, and no reproach against friends. The Hebrew 'ragal' literally means 'to go about on foot as a spy,' indicating gossip. James 3 echoes this teaching about the tongue's destructive power. Reformed ethics sees speech as covenant faithfulness—our words should build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Written as wisdom for those dwelling in God's presence (Psalm 15:1). Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature consistently condemned slander as socially destructive.

Reflection Questions

  1. How carefully do you guard against participating in gossip or slander?
  2. In what ways do your words build up your neighbors rather than tear them down?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
לֹֽא1 of 13
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

רָגַ֨ל׀2 of 13

“He that backbiteth”

H7270

to walk along; but only in specifically, applications, to reconnoiter, to be a tale-bearer (i.e., slander); to lead about

עַל3 of 13
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

לְשֹׁנ֗וֹ4 of 13

“not with his tongue”

H3956

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

לֹא5 of 13
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

עָשָׂ֣ה6 of 13

“nor doeth”

H6213

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

לְרֵעֵ֣הוּ7 of 13

“to his neighbour”

H7453

an associate (more or less close)

רָעָ֑ה8 of 13

“evil”

H7451

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

וְ֝חֶרְפָּ֗ה9 of 13

“a reproach”

H2781

contumely, disgrace, the pudenda

לֹא10 of 13
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

נָשָׂ֥א11 of 13

“nor taketh up”

H5375

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

עַל12 of 13
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

קְרֹֽבוֹ׃13 of 13

“against his neighbour”

H7138

near (in place, kindred or time)

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 15:3 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 15:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Romans 13:10Psalms 101:5-8James 4:11Matthew 7:12Leviticus 19:163 John 1:11

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