Psalm 16 3

Psalm 16:3 kjv

But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.

Psalm 16:3 nkjv

As for the saints who are on the earth, "They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight."

Psalm 16:3 niv

I say of the holy people who are in the land, "They are the noble ones in whom is all my delight."

Psalm 16:3 esv

As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.

Psalm 16:3 nlt

The godly people in the land
are my true heroes!
I take pleasure in them!

Psalm 16 verses

Psalm 16 3 Meaning

Psalm 16:3 expresses King David's profound affection and identification with God's consecrated people, the saints, who dwell on earth. These individuals, set apart for divine purposes, are described as excellent, noble, and mighty in spirit. David declares that they are the exclusive objects of his profound delight and pleasure, standing in stark contrast to those who pursue idolatry and their sorrowful path (mentioned in verse 4). It highlights a deep communal solidarity rooted in shared devotion to the true God.

Psalm 16 3 Context

Psalm 16 is a "Miktam of David," often translated as a "golden psalm" or an "inscription," suggesting its precious and lasting nature. It opens with David declaring his refuge in the Lord and affirming his dependence on God for all good things (vv. 1-2). Verse 3 follows immediately, distinguishing David's loyalty and affection from the path of idol worshipers (v. 4). This verse thus defines David's chosen company and communal allegiance. The psalm then transitions to his joyous inheritance in God (vv. 5-6), his counsel from the Lord (v. 7), his constant awareness of God's presence (v. 8), and climaxes with his profound hope in the resurrection and fullness of joy in God's presence (vv. 9-11). Therefore, verse 3 is foundational to David's character, illustrating his deliberate commitment to fellowship with God's people as an extension of his singular devotion to God Himself. Historically, David lived in a society where idolatry and the worship of various local deities were rampant; his declaration of exclusive delight in Yahweh's saints was a counter-cultural statement of covenant fidelity.

Psalm 16 3 Word analysis

• As for the saints:
  • "saints" (קְדֹשִׁים, qedoshim): This plural noun literally means "holy ones" or "set apart ones." It refers to those consecrated to God, distinct from the common or profane. In the Old Testament, it signifies those who maintain ritual and moral purity, embodying dedication to Yahweh. It emphasizes their belonging exclusively to God. Their holiness is derived from God's holiness and His setting them apart.
  • The term implies moral integrity, spiritual devotion, and fidelity to God's covenant, differentiating them from the worshippers of false gods.
• who are on the earth,
  • "on the earth" (בָּאָרֶץ, ba'aretz): This phrase can mean "in the land" (referring specifically to the land of Israel) or "on the whole earth." Given the universal nature of God's kingdom and David's context, it encompasses God's chosen people wherever they are. It anchors their existence in the physical realm, emphasizing David's tangible fellowship with them. It contrasts their earthly presence with heavenly saints, acknowledging the living community of faith.
• they are the excellent ones
  • "excellent ones" (אַדִּירֵי, addirei): This plural noun derives from a root meaning "to be great, powerful, noble, majestic, splendid." It denotes nobility, dignity, or preeminence. It suggests that these saints possess moral and spiritual strength, worth, and honor. It's a high commendation, acknowledging their intrinsic value and their distinction above the unrighteous. They are "mighty ones" not necessarily in physical strength, but in their character and devotion to God. This term sets them apart as a valuable and honorable group.
• in whom is all my delight.
  • "in whom": Indicates that the object of delight is the persons themselves, not merely their actions or attributes.
  • "all my delight" (כָּל־חֶפְצִי, kol-cheftzi): The Hebrew word cheftzi means "desire," "pleasure," "delight," "inclination." The addition of kol ("all" or "whole") emphasizes the totality and exclusivity of David's affection. This isn't just a casual liking but a profound, comprehensive joy and satisfaction found in the fellowship of God's people. It expresses his unwavering commitment and strong bond with them, mirroring God's own delight in His chosen ones. This active choosing of fellowship underscores David's spiritual alignment and priorities.

Words-Group Analysis:

• "As for the saints...they are the excellent ones...": This phrase establishes the core identity and value of God's people. David doesn't just tolerate them; he venerates them. This elevates the spiritual community to a position of supreme importance and honor, asserting that their inner quality (sanctity, excellence) defines their true worth. It’s a profound counter-statement to the common societal veneration of power or wealth; David finds value in moral and spiritual character.
• "in whom is all my delight.": This clause powerfully conveys David's personal commitment and affection. His joy and satisfaction are entirely wrapped up in this community. It’s a relational declaration, demonstrating that his spirituality is not isolated but thrives within the fellowship of other believers. This joy comes from a shared purpose and a common pursuit of God, signifying genuine spiritual camaraderie.

Psalm 16 3 Bonus section

• The emphasis on "all my delight" underscores David's exclusive loyalty, not only to Yahweh but also to Yahweh's consecrated community. In a polytheistic environment, aligning oneself solely with one deity and its adherents was a significant statement of commitment.
• This verse can be seen as an active expression of covenant loyalty and ethical discernment. David isn't merely stating a preference; he is declaring a moral stance by actively embracing and delighting in the righteous, thus distancing himself from the unrighteous, a theme common throughout the Psalms (e.g., Ps 1:1, 26:4-5).
• The concept of qedoshim (saints) evolves and broadens in the New Testament to encompass all believers, washed by Christ's blood and set apart by the Holy Spirit. This verse foreshadows the unity and mutual delight within the Body of Christ.
• David's delight serves as a mirror of God's own delight in His people (Ps 147:11; Zep 3:17), suggesting that the pursuit of righteous fellowship is inherently God-pleasing and reflects His own heart for His redeemed community.

Psalm 16 3 Commentary

Psalm 16:3 articulates David’s profound devotion and chosen association. Far from the idolaters and their mournful path described in the following verse, David expresses his absolute delight in those set apart by God. These "saints" are not merely good people; they are distinguished by their intrinsic value as "excellent ones," reflecting God's own standard of holiness and moral strength. David's choice of fellowship is a direct outflow of his primary loyalty to Yahweh, revealing that true communion is found among those who are committed to the one true God. This verse underscores the joy, sustenance, and moral compass that genuine believers find in one another's company, illustrating a vital aspect of corporate faith and mutual edification. It highlights the importance of spiritual alliances and shared purpose as a source of deep human and divine pleasure.