Psalms 53:2-3

53:2 God looks down from heaven at the human race,

to see if there is anyone who is wise and seeks God.

53:3 Everyone rejects God;

they are all morally corrupt.

None of them does what is right,

not even one!


sn The picture of the Lord looking down from heaven draws attention to his sovereignty over the world.

tn Heb “upon the sons of man.”

tn Or “acts wisely.” The Hiphil is exhibitive.

tn That is, who seeks to have a relationship with God by obeying and worshiping him.

tn Heb “all of it turns away.” Ps 14:1 has הָכֹּל (hakkol) instead of כֻּלּוֹ, and סָר (sar, “turn aside”) instead of סָג (sag, “turn away”).

tn Heb “together they are corrupt.”

tn Heb “there is none that does good.”