Main Text
King David of Israel (c. 1010 - c. 970 BC) did not write all of the Psalms — some have their author named, some refer to events that happened later — but Psalm 15 is under his own byline. David was a man of shining virtues and tragic vices, who chose the ‘holy hill’ of Zion in Jerusalem as the site of the national Temple, but for his sins did not live to see it built.
LORD, who shall dwell in thy tabernacle : or who shall rest upon thy holy hill?
Even he that leadeth an uncorrupt life : and doeth the thing which is right, and speaketh the truth from his heart.
He that hath used no deceit in his tongue, nor done evil to his neighbour : and hath not slandered his neighbour.
He that setteth not by himself, but is lowly in his own eyes : and maketh much of them that fear the Lord.
He that sweareth unto his neighbour, and disappointeth him not : though it were to his own hindrance.
He that hath not given his money upon usury : nor taken reward against the innocent.
Whoso doeth these things : shall never fall.
