Psalms 112:1 (KJV)

What does Psalms 112:1 mean?

Psalms 112:1 says that those who honor and deeply respect the LORD, and who find real joy in following His commandments, are truly blessed. The verse begins with a call to praise the LORD, setting a tone of gratitude and reverence.

This verse comes from a psalm that celebrates the life of a person who lives in awe of God. The writer, likely addressing a community of worshipers, highlights that true happiness and blessing come from both fearing (meaning respecting and revering) the LORD and delighting in His instructions. The focus is not just on outward obedience, but on a heartfelt joy in living by God’s ways.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 112:1

• "Praise" (הַלְלוּ, hallelu): This word is a call to praise, often used to invite a group to join in worship. It sets the mood for the psalm as one of celebration and honor toward God.
• "Blessed" (אַשְׁרֵי, ashrei): This word describes a deep sense of happiness or well-being, not just a surface feeling. It points to a life that is truly fulfilled.
• "Feareth" (יָרֵא, yare): This word means to deeply respect or revere, not simply to be afraid. It’s about having a humble attitude toward God.
• "Delighteth greatly" (חָפֵץ מְאֹד, chafetz me'od): This phrase means to take great pleasure in something. Here, it describes someone who doesn’t just follow God’s commandments out of duty, but who truly enjoys and values them.

Why Psalms 112:1 matters

• Psalms 112:1 clarifies that being "blessed" is tied to both an attitude of reverence toward God and a genuine enjoyment of His teachings, not just outward actions.
• The verse highlights that the commandments are not meant to be a burden, but something to be delighted in, which may challenge the idea that religious rules are only restrictive.
• In the context of Psalms 112, this opening verse sets up the rest of the psalm, which describes the positive results in the life of someone who lives this way, connecting inner attitude with outward blessing.