Psalms 17:15

KJV

As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.

KJV (with Strong's)

As for me, I will behold {H2372} thy face {H6440} in righteousness {H6664}: I shall be satisfied {H7646}, when I awake {H6974}, with thy likeness {H8544}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But my prayer, in righteousness, is to see your face; on waking, may I be satisfied with a vision of you.

Berean Standard Bible

As for me, I will behold Your face in righteousness; when I awake, I will be satisfied in Your presence.

American Standard Version

As for me, I shall behold thy face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with beholding thy form.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 17:15 stands as a profound declaration by the psalmist, David, articulating his ultimate hope and source of satisfaction in stark contrast to the fleeting pursuits of the wicked. While his adversaries find their contentment in earthly wealth and temporal pleasures, David asserts that his true fulfillment will come from intimately encountering God's presence "in righteousness" and being transformed into His divine likeness upon awakening, pointing to a future, eternal state of glorification and unhindered communion with the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 17 is a fervent prayer of David, often categorized as an individual lament or an earnest plea for deliverance. Throughout the psalm, David passionately appeals to God for justice and protection from his relentless enemies, asserting his own integrity and blamelessness before the divine scrutiny he invites in [Psalms 17:3](/psalms/17-3 "Psalms 17:3 - David's Plea for Vindication"). He vividly describes his adversaries as "men of the world" whose portion is confined to this life, characterized by pride, violence, and an insatiable focus on material gain, as detailed in [Psalms 17:9-14](/psalms/17-9 "Psalms 17:9-14 - Description of the Wicked"). Verse 15 serves as the climactic and theological counterpoint to this detailed description of the wicked. It marks a profound shift from David's present distress and the nature of his enemies to his ultimate hope and the source of his eternal satisfaction, creating a powerful antithesis between temporal and eternal values, and between worldly and divine fulfillment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David, as king and a man of profound faith, frequently faced intense opposition from both foreign powers and internal adversaries, making this psalm a likely reflection of a period of unjust accusation or severe persecution. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, "seeing the face" of a ruler or deity was a highly significant act, often signifying an audience, royal favor, or intimate communion. For a common person to "see the king's face" implied gaining access and receiving a blessing. In a biblical context, "seeing God's face" could denote a direct, unmediated encounter, sometimes associated with divine judgment or even death, as seen in [Exodus 33:20](/exodus/33-20 "Exodus 33:20 - No One Can See God's Face and Live"). However, it also carried the profound connotation of intimate fellowship and divine favor, as beautifully expressed in the priestly blessing of [Numbers 6:25](/numbers/6-25 "Numbers 6:25 - The Priestly Blessing"). The cultural understanding of "satisfaction" (Hebrew: *sâbaʻ*) was often tied to physical sustenance, abundance, and prosperity, but David elevates it to a spiritual and eternal plane, contrasting it sharply with the transient satisfaction of the wicked who are "full of children, and leave the rest of their substance to their babes" ([Psalms 17:14](/psalms/17-14 "Psalms 17:14 - The Worldly Portion")).

* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several core themes prevalent throughout the Psalms and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **contrast between the righteous and the wicked**, a recurring motif in wisdom literature, emphasizing their divergent values, aspirations, and ultimate destinies. Secondly, it underscores the **supreme value of God's presence** as the ultimate good, transcending all earthly possessions and achievements. David's profound longing to "behold thy face" speaks to a deep spiritual hunger for unhindered communion with the Divine. Thirdly, the theme of **righteousness as a prerequisite for divine encounter** is powerfully present, suggesting that purity of heart and integrity are essential for true fellowship with God, aligning with the beatitude, "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God" found in [Matthew 5:8](/matthew/5-8 "Matthew 5:8 - The Beatitudes"). Finally, the verse introduces a powerful **eschatological hope and the promise of future transformation**. The phrase "when I awake, with thy likeness" points beyond immediate deliverance to a future state of glorification, possibly resurrection, where the believer will be fully conformed to God's image and experience complete, eternal satisfaction, a theme richly echoed in the New Testament's teachings on glorification, such as in [1 John 3:2](/1_john/3-2 "1 John 3:2 - We Shall Be Like Him").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Behold (Hebrew, _châzâh'_):** A primitive root meaning "to gaze at," "mentally to perceive," or "contemplate (with pleasure)." Specifically, it can mean to "have a vision of." In this context, it signifies more than a casual glance; it implies an intense, focused, and intimate viewing, suggesting a direct and unhindered spiritual encounter with God's presence.
* **Face (Hebrew, _pânîym'_):** This plural noun, though often used singularly, literally refers to the "face" but functions as a powerful metonymy for the presence, person, or very being of God. To "behold thy face" signifies not merely a visual perception but an intimate, unhindered, and direct encounter with God's very being and presence. It implies a state of divine favor and acceptance, a longing for unmediated communion, in contrast to the veiled or indirect encounters often experienced in the Old Testament.
* **Satisfied (Hebrew, _sâbaʻ'_):** A primitive root meaning "to sate," "fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)." It conveys a sense of having one's desires completely met, leaving no room for want or emptiness. In the context of Psalms 17:15, it stands in stark opposition to the insatiable desires often associated with worldly pursuits and the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures. David's satisfaction is not temporary but profound and enduring, derived from the ultimate source of all good.
* **Awake (Hebrew, _qûwts'_):** A primitive root meaning "to awake (literally or figuratively)." It refers to the act of starting up from sleep. In this verse, particularly when paired with "with thy likeness," it carries profound eschatological implications, pointing to an awakening from the sleep of death, i.e., resurrection, into a new state of being.
* **Likeness (Hebrew, _tᵉmûwnâh'_):** This noun refers to something "portioned out" or "fashioned out," denoting a form, image, similitude, or representation. It is used elsewhere to describe a visible form or appearance, as in the "likeness of the Lord" ([Numbers 12:8](/numbers/12-8 "Numbers 12:8 - Moses Saw the Likeness of the Lord")). Here, it suggests a profound transformation or recognition where the believer will not only see God but will also fully bear His image, reflecting His character and glory in their very being, implying a state of perfected conformity to the divine nature.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As for me":** This emphatic opening phrase establishes a clear and deliberate contrast between the psalmist and the wicked described in the preceding verses. It highlights David's distinct values, aspirations, and ultimate destiny, setting his spiritual pursuit apart from the material and temporal focus of his adversaries. It serves as a personal declaration of faith and hope.
* **"I will behold thy face in righteousness":** This clause expresses David's profound desire for intimate communion with God. "Behold thy face" signifies a direct, unhindered, and personal encounter with God's presence. The phrase "in righteousness" can be interpreted in two primary ways: either David's own integrity and blamelessness are the prerequisite for such a vision, or it refers to the righteous state (imputed or imparted) that enables such a pure encounter. Given the context of David asserting his blamelessness throughout the psalm, it likely encompasses both the aspiration for personal purity and the understanding that true, unhindered communion is only possible through a state of right standing with God.
* **"I shall be satisfied":** This declares the ultimate, complete outcome of beholding God's face. The satisfaction described is profound, comprehensive, and enduring, transcending any earthly contentment. It signifies a spiritual fulfillment that leaves no desire unmet, a stark contrast to the temporary and often unsatisfying nature of worldly pursuits. This is the ultimate goal and reward of the righteous.
* **"when I awake":** This phrase is rich with eschatological meaning. While it can refer to waking from literal sleep, symbolizing a new day or a spiritual awakening into a deeper understanding of God, its most profound interpretation points to waking from the sleep of death, i.e., resurrection. This suggests that the ultimate, complete satisfaction and transformation will occur in the afterlife, in the unmediated presence of God.
* **"with thy likeness":** This final phrase describes the glorious state of the psalmist upon "awakening." It implies not only seeing God but also being transformed into His image or character. This points to a future state of glorification where believers will be fully conformed to the divine nature, reflecting God's holiness, purity, and glory. It speaks to the ultimate purpose of redemption: to restore humanity to the image of God, perfected and glorified.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 17:15 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, which is central to the entire psalm. The psalmist explicitly sets his spiritual aspirations ("As for me, I will behold thy face") against the material pursuits of the wicked described in the preceding verses ("men of the world, who have their portion in this life"). This stark juxtaposition highlights the divergent values and ultimate destinies of the righteous and the unrighteous. **Metonymy** is evident in "behold thy face," where "face" stands for the entire person or intimate presence of God, signifying a direct and personal encounter. The phrase "I shall be satisfied" uses **Hyperbole** to convey the completeness and overwhelming nature of the fulfillment found in God, suggesting a satisfaction that transcends all earthly measures. Furthermore, the phrase "when I awake, with thy likeness" employs **Eschatological Language**, pointing beyond the immediate present to a future, ultimate state of being, implying resurrection and glorification, thereby infusing the verse with profound hope and eternal perspective.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 17:15 stands as a powerful testament to humanity's deepest longing for God and the ultimate fulfillment found exclusively in His presence. Theologically, it resonates with the concept of the *imago Dei*, reminding us that humanity was created in God's image and finds its true purpose and satisfaction in reflecting and communing with Him. David's desire to "behold thy face" anticipates the beatific vision, the ultimate joy of seeing God face to face, a hope that transcends the limitations of this life. The emphasis on "righteousness" underscores the biblical truth that holiness is essential for true communion with a holy God, whether it refers to the believer's striving for purity or the imputed righteousness that makes such a vision possible. This verse also powerfully contrasts worldly satisfaction, which is fleeting and superficial, with the profound, eternal contentment derived from an intimate relationship with the Creator. It speaks to the ultimate hope of glorification, where believers will be fully transformed into God's likeness, realizing their created purpose and experiencing unending joy in His presence.

* [Matthew 5:8](/matthew/5-8 "The Beatitude of the Pure in Heart")
* [1 Corinthians 13:12](/1_corinthians/13-12 "Seeing Face to Face")
* [1 John 3:2](/1_john/3-2 "We Shall Be Like Him")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world constantly vying for our attention and promising satisfaction through material possessions, social status, or fleeting pleasures, Psalms 17:15 serves as a timeless corrective and a profound call to reorient our desires. David's declaration challenges us to examine the true source of our contentment. Are we, like the "men of the world," pursuing a portion in this life that will ultimately prove unsatisfying and temporary, or are we cultivating a deep, abiding hunger for God's presence? This verse encourages us to prioritize an intimate, righteous relationship with God above all else, recognizing that true fulfillment is not found in what we accumulate, but in who we become in His likeness. It invites us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that the ultimate satisfaction awaits us in His glorious presence, where every spiritual longing will be met. This hope empowers us to navigate present challenges with resilience, knowing that our ultimate awakening will bring complete joy and transformation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the primary sources of satisfaction in my life currently? How do they compare to the satisfaction David anticipates in God's presence?**
* **What does it mean for me, practically, to "behold God's face in righteousness" in my daily life?**
* **How does the hope of "awakening with God's likeness" impact my perspective on suffering, death, and the future?**
* **In what ways am I actively pursuing a deeper, more intimate relationship with God, rather than settling for worldly contentment?**

### FAQ

**What does "when I awake" specifically refer to in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "when I awake" is rich with meaning and has been interpreted in several ways, but its most profound and widely accepted theological interpretation points to the resurrection from the dead. While it could metaphorically refer to a spiritual awakening or waking from literal sleep to a new day of God's presence, the context of ultimate satisfaction and transformation ("with thy likeness") strongly suggests an eschatological hope. It speaks to the believer's ultimate glorification and full communion with God in the afterlife, after the sleep of death. This aligns with the broader biblical hope of resurrection and eternal life in God's presence, where believers will finally see God "face to face" ([1 Corinthians 13:12](/1_corinthians/13-12 "1 Corinthians 13:12 - Seeing Face to Face")) and be fully conformed to His image.

**How does "in righteousness" relate to "behold thy face"? Does it mean I have to be perfect to see God?**

Answer: The phrase "in righteousness" is crucial. It does not imply that human perfection is a prerequisite for seeing God, as all have sinned and fall short of His glory ([Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")). Instead, it speaks to the necessary condition for intimate fellowship with a holy God. This "righteousness" can be understood in two complementary ways: Firstly, it refers to the psalmist's integrity and blamelessness in the specific context of his plea against his enemies, asserting his adherence to God's ways in contrast to their wickedness. Secondly, and more profoundly for New Testament believers, it points to the righteousness that God Himself provides. Only through Christ's perfect righteousness, imputed to believers through faith, can we stand pure before God and anticipate seeing His face. The New Testament affirms that "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God" ([Matthew 5:8](/matthew/5-8 "Matthew 5:8 - The Beatitude of the Pure in Heart")), and this purity is ultimately a gift of grace, leading to a life lived in accordance with God's will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 17:15 finds its glorious and ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. David's longing to "behold thy face in righteousness" is perfectly realized in Christ, who is the "image of the invisible God" ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ is the Image of God")) and through whom we gain access to the Father. He is the one in whom all righteousness is found, and it is His righteousness, imputed to us by faith, that enables us to stand pure before a holy God. The promise of being "satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness" speaks directly to the Christian hope of resurrection and glorification. Through Christ's own resurrection, death has been conquered, and believers are promised a future awakening where they will be raised in incorruptible bodies ([1 Corinthians 15:52](/1_corinthians/15-52 "1 Corinthians 15:52 - The Resurrection of the Dead")). Furthermore, the "likeness" we are to awake with is ultimately the likeness of Christ Himself, for "we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is" ([1 John 3:2](/1_john/3-2 "1 John 3:2 - We Shall Be Like Him")). Our ultimate satisfaction is found not merely in seeing God, but in being transformed into the very image of His Son, sharing in His glory and enjoying eternal, unhindered communion with the Triune God, a hope secured by Christ's finished work on the cross and His triumphant resurrection ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to the Image of His Son")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 3:18

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Psalms 11:7

For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.

Matthew 5:6

Blessed [are] they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

Psalms 4:6

¶ [There be] many that say, Who will shew us [any] good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.

Psalms 4:7

Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time [that] their corn and their wine increased.

Psalms 16:11

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore.

1 John 3:2

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.