Psalm 26 Meaning Explained

A prayer of protested integrity. The psalmist, unlike the penitent in Psalm 25, calls for vindication based on examined conduct: walked integrity, avoided the company of deceit. The imagery is of ritual purity ('wash my hands'), and the request is to not be 'swept away' with sinners. It’s a bold appeal to God’s justice from one who claims to have loved God's house.

A clear explanation of Psalm 26, its meaning, context, and message for believers today

Psalms Chapter 26 | KJV

1. A Psalm of David. Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.
2. Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
3. For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.
4. I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.
5. I have hated the congregation of evildoers; and will not sit with the wicked.
6. I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:
7. That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.
8. LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.
9. Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:
10. In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.
11. But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.
12. My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD.

Historical Context

Psalm 26, attributed to David, is a declaration of innocence and commitment to God’s truth and justice.