Psalms 18:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 18:20
20 The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.
Chapter Context
Psalms 18 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, covenant, salvation. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-50: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 18:20
20 The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.
Analysis
Yahweh dealt with David 'according to my righteousness' and 'cleanness of my hands.' This seems to contradict salvation by grace until recognizing David speaks of covenant faithfulness, not sinless perfection. The Hebrew 'tsedaqah' (righteousness) refers to conformity to covenant, and 'bor' (cleanness) to integrity. This anticipates justification by faith—believers are declared righteous through Christ's righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Historical Context
Written after David consistently refused to harm Saul despite opportunity (1 Samuel 24, 26), demonstrating covenant faithfulness that God rewarded.
Reflection
- How do you understand the relationship between grace and righteous living?
- In what ways does covenant faithfulness differ from earning salvation?
Word Studies
- Righteous: צַדִּיק (Tzaddik) H6664 - Righteous one
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 49:4, 62:11
- Righteousness: Psalms 58:11, Proverbs 11:18
- Parallel theme: Psalms 24:4, Job 22:30, Matthew 6:4, 1 Corinthians 3:8, Hebrews 7:26