Psalm 1 is a foundational psalm that contrasts the way of the righteous with the way of the wicked. It emphasizes the importance of delighting in and meditating on the law of the Lord. The psalm describes the righteous person as one who is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season and prospering in all they do. In contrast, the wicked are likened to chaff that the wind drives away, ultimately leading to their destruction. This psalm sets the tone for the entire Book of Psalms by highlighting the blessings of following God's ways and the consequences of turning away from Him.