Psalm 53 – Let’s seek to know God

Earlier in our discussion in Psalm 14, we have established that it is almost the same as Psalm 53. David had written them and addressed them to the chief musician. However, in Psalm 53, the superscript states that it is a maskil, hence it was intended to be a teaching Psalm. The word “Mahalath” refers to the tune that the song was to be sung. While Psalm 53 is identical with Psalm 14, there are two variances. In the English version there is no difference for the word God in both the Psalms. However, the real word for God in Psalm 14 is actually Yahweh, the covenant name of God. Whereas Psalm 53, the word God is taken from the personal name of God, Elohim. The other different is found in verse 5. In Psalm 53, this verse had been expanded to include the unprecedented fear experienced by the godless. And also that God will scatter the bones of the people who encamped around the godly. This is by way of saying that God will come to the protection of His people, and dismantle the hosts that surround His people. And grant the godly victory and protection over the godless.

As we have discovered in Psalm 14, this Psalm also contrasts the people of God with the people who refused to acknowledge God. His definition of a fool is anyone who denies that God exists. They have thrust God out of their heart. Because of the disbelief in the existence of God, they become corrupt and would act wickedly. Every deed of theirs is characterized by evil. And the world is filled with them. We shall not go over what we have already covered in Psalm 14. But let us be reminded in verse 2 of the desire of God. He is still looking for people who would seek to know and understand Him. Let’s be the kind of people God is looking for! Are we the kind that will please the heart of God? Let’s have a heart for Him!