‘On His Law He Meditates’: What Is Psalm 1 Introducing?

Abstract

In this article, three common assumptions about the way Psalm 1 introduces the Psalter are examined, and alternatives proposed. First, rather than interpreting the Hebrew word torah in Ps. 1.2 as the book of Psalms itself, it is argued that the passage refers to singing psalms as a means of meditation on the Mosaic Torah. Second, rather than regarding ‘delight’ in God's law as meaning obedience, it is argued that the Psalm promotes hope in God's reign. Third, rather than viewing Psalm 1 as a hermeneutical lens for re-interpreting other psalms, this study argues for a reading of Psalm 1 that explains the collection.