Every verse here opens — tap a number for what that one means.
1LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
2He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
3He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
4In 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.
5He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.
Commentary
Psalm 15, explained
What Psalm 15 is saying
Psalm 15 is an entrance liturgy answering the question 'Who may dwell on Your holy mountain?' with a profile of ethical character rather than ritual qualification. The ten characteristics describe a person of integrity (holekh tamim), truthful speech, and economic justice—including the prohibition against lending at interest (neshekh), which reflects Torah's concern for economic exploitation among covenant members.
The background behind it
Entrance liturgies (cf. Psalm 24, Isaiah 33:14–16) were likely recited at the temple gates as pilgrims approached for worship. They functioned as moral self-examination before entering sacred space.
Themes running underneath
The psalm integrates worship and ethics, refusing to separate access to God from moral conduct. The emphasis on speech ethics (no slander, keeping one's oath even when costly) and economic justice demonstrates that holiness is expressed in community relationships.
Why it still matters
Psalm 15 challenges the dichotomy between 'spiritual' and 'ethical' life, insisting that how one treats neighbors, handles money, and uses words determines one's proximity to God. It provides a practical checklist for relational integrity.
Scripture text: King James Version — public domain.