Psalms 53:3 (KJV)

What does Psalms 53:3 mean?

Psalms 53:3 says that everyone has turned away from what is right and become corrupt; there is not a single person who consistently does good. The verse emphasizes the total absence of righteousness among people, stressing that no one is exempt from this judgment.

In this psalm, the writer (traditionally David) is speaking about humanity as a whole, not just a specific group. The situation is one of deep disappointment with how people have acted, highlighting a universal moral failure. The verse uses strong language to show that the problem is not isolated—every person is included in this sweeping statement.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 53:3

• "gone back" (סוּר, sur, H5472): This word means to turn aside or turn away, often from a path or standard. Here, it suggests a deliberate departure from what is right.
• "altogether" (יַחְדָּו, yachdav, H3162): This word means "together" or "all as one." It stresses that the corruption is not just individual but collective—everyone is involved.
• "become filthy" (אַלָּח, alach, H444): This word means to become corrupt or morally tainted. It paints a picture of deep moral pollution, not just minor wrongdoing.
• "doeth" (עָשָׂה, asah, H6213): This is a common word for "to do" or "to make," here referring to the act of doing good.
• "good" (טוֹב, tov, H2896): This word means good in a broad sense—morally right, beneficial, or pleasing.
• "one" (אֶחָד, echad, H259): This word means "one" or "a single person," emphasizing that not even one person is an exception.

Why Psalms 53:3 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that some people might be exceptions to human failing; it insists that the problem is universal.
• The strong, collective language connects this psalm to other passages (like Romans 3:10–12) that stress the need for mercy and grace, not self-reliance.
• Understanding the original words helps show that the verse is not just about isolated bad actions but a deep, shared turning away from what is good.