Psalms 15:3

"he who doesn’t slander with his tongue, nor does evil to his friend, nor casts slurs against his fellow man;"

Key Reflection

In the context of first-century Jewish society, Psalms 15:3 highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and loyalty within one's community. The psalmist calls for a lifestyle free from slander, malice, and derogatory speech toward friends and fellow community members—a standard that would have been highly valued as it reflected the communal values of justice and mutual respect in ancient Israelite society.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

He that backbiteth not with his tongue -The word “backbite” means to censure; slander; reproach; speak evil of. The Hebrew word -רגלrâgal- a verb formed from the word foot, means properly “to foot it,” and then “to go about.” Then it means to go about as a tale-bearer or slanderer; to circulate reports unfavorable to others. It is not improperly rendered here “backbite;” and the idea is, that it is essential to true piety that one should “not” be a slanderer, or should “not” circulate evil reports in regard to others. On the use of the “tongue,” see the note atJames 3:2-11. Nor doeth evil to his neighbor -That does his neighbor no harm.

More from Psalms 15

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