Old Testament
Psalms 17:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As for me, I will behold your face in righteousness. I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with your likeness.
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As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
What Psalms 17:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep desire to see God and be in His presence. The phrase 'behold your face in righteousness' suggests that the psalmist seeks a relationship with God that is based on moral integrity and justice. The promise of being 'satisfied' when he awakens with God's likeness indicates a hope for transformation and fulfillment in the afterlife. This reflects a longing for spiritual closeness and the ultimate goal of being like God, which is a common theme in biblical texts. The psalmist's confidence in seeing God signifies a trust in God's goodness and a belief in the resurrection or eternal life, where believers will fully experience God's glory. This verse encapsulates the hope of believers for a future where they will be fully united with God, reflecting His character and enjoying His presence forever.
How to apply Psalms 17:15 to your life
This verse encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through righteousness and integrity. It reminds us that our ultimate satisfaction comes from being in God's presence and becoming more like Him. We should strive to reflect His character in our daily lives, fostering a longing for spiritual growth and connection with the divine.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Psalms 17:15
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 17:15 mean?
Psalms 17:15 expresses the psalmist's desire to see God and be in His presence, emphasizing a relationship grounded in righteousness. It reflects a hope for transformation and fulfillment in the afterlife, where believers will be satisfied by being like God.
What is the meaning of 'behold your face' in Psalms 17:15?
The phrase 'behold your face' signifies a longing to experience God's presence and glory. It indicates a deep desire for intimacy with God, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from being close to Him.
What does 'I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with your likeness' mean?
This part of the verse conveys the hope of being transformed to reflect God's character after death. It suggests that ultimate satisfaction and fulfillment come from being united with God in the afterlife.
What themes are present in Psalms 17:15?
Key themes in Psalms 17:15 include the desire for God's presence, the importance of righteousness, the hope for transformation, and the promise of spiritual fulfillment in the afterlife.
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