Psalms 85:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 85:13
13 Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.
Chapter Context
Psalms 85 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, wisdom, covenant. 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 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 85:13
13 Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.
Analysis
Righteousness shall go before him (צֶדֶק לְפָנָיו יְהַלֵּךְ, tzedek lefanav yehalekh)—Tzedek means righteousness, justice; lefanav means before his face; halakh means walk, go. And shall set us in the way of his steps (וְיָשֵׂם לְדֶרֶךְ פְּעָמָיו, ve-yasem le-derekh pe'amav)—Yasem means set, place; derekh means way, path; pe'amav means his steps, footsteps.
Psalm 85 prays for restoration after exile. Verses 10-11 picture cosmic reconciliation: "Mercy and truth meet together; righteousness and peace kiss." Verse 13 continues this vision—God's righteousness doesn't just accompany him but goes before him, preparing the way. This anticipates John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus (Mark 1:2-3). God's righteous character shapes the path his people walk.
Historical Context
Written after return from Babylonian exile, Psalm 85 reflects both gratitude for restoration and longing for complete renewal. The community had rebuilt the temple but still faced opposition, poverty, and spiritual apathy. They needed God's righteousness to lead them forward.
Reflection
- How does God's righteousness "going before" you provide security and direction for your path?
- In what ways do you need God's righteous character to prepare the way in current circumstances?
- How does this verse connect personal holiness with following in God's footsteps?
Word Studies
- Righteous: צַדִּיק (Tzaddik) H6664 - Righteous one
Cross-References
- Righteousness: Psalms 89:14, Isaiah 58:8
- Parallel theme: Psalms 119:35, John 13:34, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Galatians 2:20, 1 Peter 4:1, 1 John 2:6