Psalms 84:10

For a day in thy courts [is] better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.

For a day {H3117} in thy courts {H2691} is better {H2896} than a thousand {H505}. I had rather {H977}{H8804)} be a doorkeeper {H5605}{H8705)} in the house {H1004} of my God {H430}, than to dwell {H1752}{H8800)} in the tents {H168} of wickedness {H7562}.

Better a day in your courtyards than a thousand [days elsewhere]. Better just standing at the door of my God's house than living in the tents of the wicked.

For better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, Than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.

Psalms 84:10 (KJV) expresses a profound longing and deep devotion to God, emphasizing the incomparable value of His presence over any worldly comfort or prosperity. It is a powerful declaration of priorities, where spiritual communion far outweighs material gain.

Context of Psalms 84:10

Psalm 84 is a "Psalm of Ascent" (or "Song of Degrees"), likely sung by pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. These pilgrims, often traveling long distances, intensely longed to be in the temple courts, the physical manifestation of God's dwelling place. The entire psalm overflows with a yearning for God's presence, seen in verses like "My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD". This verse, therefore, encapsulates the culmination of that ardent desire, contrasting the joy of being in God's house with the transient nature of worldly existence and the allure of ungodly living.

Key Themes in Psalms 84:10

  • The Supreme Value of God's Presence: The declaration "a day in thy courts is better than a thousand" underscores that time spent in the presence of God holds infinite more value, joy, and spiritual nourishment than an extended period anywhere else. It challenges the notion that worldly achievements or comforts bring ultimate satisfaction and echoes sentiments about finding true joy in God, as seen in Psalms 16:11.
  • Humility and Devotion: The psalmist's preference to be a "doorkeeper" (a humble, servant role) in God's house rather than dwelling in the "tents of wickedness" highlights a profound sense of humility and unwavering devotion. It signifies a willingness to take the lowest position if it means being close to God.
  • Stark Contrast: The verse draws a clear distinction between the holy, stable environment of God's house and the temporary, morally corrupt "tents of wickedness." This is a choice between spiritual life and worldly unrighteousness, where the former is infinitely preferred. This resonates with the choice presented in Psalm 1:1 regarding the blessed and the ungodly.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "doorkeeper" is sōʿēr (סֹעֵר), which can also be translated as "gatekeeper" or "porter." This role was not one of prestige but of humble service, often involving guarding the entrances and maintaining order. The psalmist's willingness to embrace such a position speaks volumes about his priorities. The "tents of wickedness" (ʾohălê rešaʿ) vividly contrasts the temporary, ungodly dwellings of the wicked with the permanent, holy sanctuary of God, emphasizing the moral and spiritual chasm between them.

Practical Application

Psalms 84:10 challenges believers today to evaluate their own priorities. Do we value time spent in worship, prayer, Bible study, and Christian fellowship as supremely as the psalmist did? It encourages us to seek God's presence above all else, recognizing that true fulfillment and lasting joy are found there. The verse inspires a spirit of humility and service within the church, reminding us that even the most seemingly insignificant role in God's kingdom is more valuable than any worldly success or comfort gained outside of His will. This commitment echoes the sentiment found in Philippians 3:8, where Paul counts all things loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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 enquire in his temple.

  • Psalms 26:8

    LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.

  • Psalms 26:10

    In whose hands [is] mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.

  • Psalms 63:2

    To see thy power and thy glory, so [as] I have seen thee in the sanctuary.

  • Philippians 3:20

    For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

  • Psalms 84:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician upon Gittith, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. How amiable [are] thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!

  • Psalms 84:2

    My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.

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