King James Version
What Does Psalms 15:4 Mean?
“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.”
Context
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.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **In whose eyes.**—The first clause is obscure. The subject and predicate are not clearly marked; but the Authorised Version gives the right sense. It is quite out of keeping with the context to make both verbs predicates, and to translate, “He is despised and rejected in his own eyes,” *i.e., thinks humbly of himself. *The meaning is, “Those deserving contempt are contemned; but the good who fear Jehovah are honoured.”
**To his own hurt.**—Literally, *to do evil, i.e., *to him-self (see Leviticus 5:4). The LXX., by transposing the letters, read, “to his neighbour;” and the English Prayer Book version has apparently combined the two thoughts: “Who sweareth to his neighbour, and dis-appointeth him not, even though it were to his own hindrance.”
“His words are bonds, his oaths are oracles,
His love sincere, his thoughts immaculate;
His tears pure messengers sent from his heart,
His heart is far from fraud as heaven from earth.”
SHAKSPEARE: *Two Gentlemen of Verona.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 15:4 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 15:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge