King James Version
Psalm 1
Opening the Psalter as a foundational wisdom poem, Psalm 1 contrasts two distinct ways of living and their long term outcomes. The writer describes the quiet joy of those who delight in divine instruction day and night, comparing them to vibrant trees planted near nourishing rivers. In contrast, those who disregard goodness are pictured as light chaff swept away by the wind. By establishing this clear moral crossroads at the very start of the book, the psalm invites readers to reflect on guidance, character, and spiritual roots. The chapter memorably highlights this path with the verse, "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly."
1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
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