Psalms 27:4
One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.
Psalms 27:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from psalm 27:4 highlights the deep yearning of the psalmist to be in the presence of the Lord. The psalmist expresses a single desire - to dwell in the house of the Lord for all the days of their life. This desire signifies a longing for a close and intimate relationship with God, seeking to experience His beauty and to seek wisdom and guidance in His temple. This verse reflects a devotion to God and a recognition of His majesty, drawing inspiration from His presence. The psalmist's focus on being in God's house emphasizes the importance of seeking God above all else and finding peace and fulfillment in His presence. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual nourishment and seek God's guidance in all aspects of life, ultimately finding solace and purpose in the presence of the Lord.
Theological Overview
Psalm 27:4 expresses the writer's deep desire to be in constant communion with the Lord, seeking His presence above all else. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of prioritizing a close relationship with God throughout one's life. By dwelling in the house of the Lord, the writer seeks to experience the beauty of God and to seek His guidance in all matters. The phrase "to behold the beauty of the Lord" emphasizes the writer's desire to witness the majesty and wonder of God's presence, while "to inquire in his temple" conveys the intention to seek wisdom and understanding through seeking God's will. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to prioritize their relationship with God above all else, seeking His presence and guidance in every aspect of their lives.
Psalms 27:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
One thing have I asked of Jehovah, that will I seek after; That I may dwell in the house of Jehovah all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of Jehovah, And to inquire in his temple.
World English Bible
One thing I have asked of Yahweh, that I will seek after, that I may dwell in Yahweh’s house all the days of my life, to see Yahweh’s beauty, and to inquire in his temple.
Douay-Rheims
Give them according to their works, and according to the wickedness of their inventions. According to the works of their hands give thou to them: render to them their reward.
Geneva Bible (1599)
One thing haue I desired of the Lord, that I will require, euen that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the dayes of my life, to beholde the beautie of the Lord, and to visite his Temple.