Question 1

What does Psalms 14:3 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 14:3 says that everyone has turned away from what is right, and all together have become morally corrupt; there is not a single person who consistently does good, not even one. The verse paints a picture of complete moral failure among people. In this psalm, David is speaking about the widespread corruption he sees in humanity. He is not singling out a specific group, but rather describing a general state where no one is truly righteous by their own actions. This verse is part of a larger reflection on the foolishness and brokenness found in people who ignore God.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 14:3

Accepted Answer

"gone aside" (סָר H5493, sar): This word means to turn away or deviate from a path. Here, it highlights that people have left the way they should walk. "together" (יַחְדָּו H3162, yachdav): This word means "all together" or "as one group." It emphasizes that this is not just a problem for a few, but a universal condition. "become filthy" (אַלַּח H444, alach): This word carries the sense of becoming corrupt or morally tainted. It is a strong term for deep moral pollution. "doeth" (עָשָׂה H6213, asah): This is a common word for "to do" or "to act." Here, it refers to doing good deeds. "good" (טוֹב H2896, tov): This word means "good" in the sense of what is right, beneficial, or morally excellent. "one" (אֶחָד H259, echad): This word means "one" or "a single person," stressing that not even one exception can be found.

Question 3

Why Psalms 14:3 matters

Accepted Answer

Psalms 14:3 makes clear that the psalmist is describing a universal problem, not just the failings of a few individuals or a single group. The verse uses strong language to show the depth of human moral failure, which helps explain why the psalmist sees such a need for God’s help and intervention. This verse is quoted in the New Testament (Romans 3:10-12) to support the idea that all people need grace, showing its lasting influence on later biblical teaching.

Psalms 14:3 (KJV)