Psalms 119
119
The Words of God # 119 This psalm is an acrostic poem, a mathematical masterpiece. It consists of twenty-two stanzas of eight lines each. Each stanza begins with the same Hebrew letter at the beginning of every one of its eight lines, going in succession, by strophes, from alef—the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, as the first letter of each line in the first strophe—to taw—the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet, as the first letter of each line in the last strophe. Like the eight lines of each stanza, there are eight Hebrew words, all synonyms, used to refer to the Word of God. Although many believe Ezra wrote Ps. 119, the acrostic poetic style is unique to King David within the book of Psalms, which points to his authorship of this psalm.
The Way to Happiness
1You’re only truly happy when you walk in total integrity,
walking in the light of God’s Word. # 119:1 Or “perfection.” The Hebrew reads “utterances.”
2What joy overwhelms everyone who keeps the ways of God,
those who seek him as their heart’s passion!
3They’ll never do what’s wrong
but will always choose the paths of the Lord.
4God has prescribed the right way to live:
obeying his laws with all our hearts.
5How I long for my life to bring you glory
as I follow each and every one of your holy precepts!
6Then I’ll never be ashamed,
for I take strength from all your commandments.
7I will give my thanks to you from a heart of love and truth.
And every time I learn more of your righteous judgments,
8I will be faithful to all that your Word reveals—
so don’t ever give up on me!
True Joy
9How can a young man stay pure?
Only by living in the Word of God and walking in its truth.
10I have longed for you with the passion of my heart;
don’t let me stray from your directions!
11I consider your Word to be my greatest treasure,
and I treasure it in my heart
to keep me from committing sin’s treason against you.
12My wonderful God, you are to be praised above all;
teach me the power of your decrees!
13I speak continually of your laws
as I recite out loud your counsel to me.
14I find more joy in following what you tell me to do
than in chasing after all the wealth of the world.
15I set my heart on your precepts
and pay close attention to all your ways.
16My delight is found in all your laws,
and I won’t forget to walk in your words.
The Abundant Life
17Let me, your servant, walk in abundance of life
that I may always live to obey your truth.
18Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in Scripture. # 119:18 Or “your law.”
19My life on earth is so brief, so tutor me in the ways of your wisdom.
20I am continually consumed by these irresistible longings,
these cravings to obey your every commandment!
21Your displeasure rests with those who are arrogant,
who think they know everything;
you rebuke the rebellious who refuse your laws.
22Don’t let them mock and scorn me for obeying you.
23For even if the princes and my leaders choose to criticize me,
I will continue to serve you and walk in your plans for my life.
24Your commandments are my counselors;
your Word is my light and delight!
Revived by the Word
25Lord, I’m fading away. I’m discouraged and lying in the dust;
revive me by your word, just like you promised you would.
26I’ve poured out my life before you,
and you’ve always been there for me.
So now I ask: teach me more of your holy decrees.
27Open up my understanding to the ways of your wisdom,
and I will meditate deeply on your splendor and your wonders.
28My life’s strength melts away with grief and sadness;
come strengthen me and encourage me with your words.
29Keep me far away from what is false;
give me grace to stay true to your laws.
30I’ve chosen to obey your truth
and walk in the splendor-light of all that you teach me.
31Lord, don’t allow me to make a mess of my life,
for I cling to your commands and follow them as closely as I can.
32I will run after you with delight in my heart,
for you will make me obedient to your instructions.
Understanding God’s Ways
33Give me revelation about the meaning of your ways
so I can enjoy the reward of following them fully.
34Give me an understanding heart so that I can
passionately know and obey your truth.
35Guide me into the paths that please you,
for I take delight in all that you say.
36Cause my heart to bow before your words of wisdom
and not to the wealth of this world.
37Help me turn my eyes away from illusions
so that I pursue only that which is true;
drench my soul with life as I walk in your paths. # 119:37 The Masoretic Text and the Dead Sea Scrolls read “Preserve my life according to your word.”
38Reassure me of your promises, for I am your beloved,
your servant who bows before you.
39Defend me from the criticism I face
for keeping your beautiful words.
40See how I long with cravings for more of your ways?
Let your righteousness revive my spirit!
Trust in the Lord
41May your tender love overwhelm me, O Lord,
for you are my Savior and you keep your promises.
42I’ll always have an answer for those who mock me
because I trust in your word.
43May I never forget your truth, for I rely upon your precepts.
44I will observe your laws every moment of the day
and will never forget the words you say.
45I will walk with you in complete freedom,
for I seek to follow your every command.
46When I stand before kings, I will tell them the truth
and will never be ashamed.
47My passion and delight is in your word,
for I love what you say to me!
48I long for more revelation of your truth,
for I love the light of your word as I meditate on your decrees.
My Comfort
49Lord, never forget the promises you’ve made to me,
for they are my hope and confidence.
50In all of my affliction I find great comfort in your promises,
for they have kept me alive!
51No matter how bitterly the proud mockers speak against me,
I refuse to budge from your precepts.
52Your revelation-light is eternal;
I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth!
53Whenever I see the wicked breaking your laws, I feel horrible.
54As I journey through life, I put all your statutes to music;
they become the theme of my joyous songs.
55Throughout the night I think of you, dear God;
I treasure your every word to me.
56All this joy is mine as I follow your ways!
My Heart Is Devoted to You
57You are my satisfaction, Lord, and all that I need,
so I’m determined to do everything you say.
58With all my heart I seek your favor;
pour out your grace on me as you promised!
59When I realize that I’m going astray,
I turn back to obey your instructions.
60I give my all to follow your revelation-light; I will not delay to obey.
61Even when temptations encircle me with evil,
I won’t forget for a moment to follow your commands.
62In the middle of the night I awake to give thanks to you
because of all your revelation-light—so right and true!
63Anyone who loves you and bows in obedience to your words
will be my friend.
64Give me more revelation of your ways,
for I see your love and tender care everywhere.
My True Treasure
65Your extravagant kindness to me
makes me want to follow your words even more!
66Teach me how to make good decisions,
and give me revelation-light, for I believe in your commands.
67Before I was humbled I used to always wander astray,
but now I see the wisdom of your words.
68Everything you do is beautiful, flowing from your goodness;
teach me the power of your wonderful words!
69Proud boasters make up lies about me
because I am passionate to follow all that you say.
70Their hearts are dull and void of feelings,
but I find my true treasure in your truth.
71The punishment you brought me through was the best thing
that could have happened to me, for it taught me your ways.
72The words you speak to me are worth more
than all the riches and wealth in the whole world!
Growth through the Word
73Your very hands have held me and made me who I am;
give me more revelation-light so I may learn to please you more.
74May all your devoted lovers see how you treat me and be glad,
for your words are entwined with my heart.
75Lord, I know that your judgments are always right.
Even when it’s me you judge, you’re still faithful and true.
76Send your kind mercy-kiss to comfort me, your servant,
just like you promised you would.
77Love me tenderly so I can go on,
for I delight in your life-giving truth.
78Shame upon the proud liars! See how they oppress me,
all because of my passion for your precepts!
79May all your devoted lovers follow me
as I follow the path of your instruction.
80Make me passionate and wholehearted to fulfill your every wish,
so that I’ll never have to be ashamed of myself.
Deliver Me
81I’m lovesick with yearnings for more of your salvation,
for my heart is entwined with your Word.
82I’m consumed with longings for your promises,
so I ask, “When will they all come true?”
83My soul feels dry and shriveled, useless and forgotten,
but I will never forget your living truth.
84How much longer must I wait until you punish my persecutors?
For I am your loving servant.
85Arrogant men who hate your truth and never obey your laws
have laid a trap for my life.
86They don’t know that everything you say is true,
so they harass me with their lies. Help me, Lord!
87They’ve nearly destroyed my life, but I refuse to yield;
I still live according to your Word.
88Revive me with your tender love and
spare my life by your kindness, and I will continue to obey you.
Faith in the Word of God
89Standing firm in the heavens and fastened to eternity
is the Word of God.
90Your faithfulness flows from one generation to the next;
all that you created sits firmly in place to testify of you.
91By your decree everything stands at attention,
for all that you have made serves you.
92Because your words are my deepest delight,
I didn’t give up when all else was lost.
93I can never forget the profound revelations you’ve taught me,
for they have kept me alive more than once.
94Lord, I’m all yours, and you are my Savior;
I have sought to live my life pleasing to you.
95Even though evil men wait in ambush to kill me,
I will set my heart before you to understand more of your ways.
96I’ve learned that there is nothing perfect
in this imperfect world except your words,
for they bring such fantastic freedom into my life!
I Love the Word of God
97O how I love and treasure your law;
throughout the day I fill my heart with its light!
98By considering your commands I have an edge over my enemies,
for I take seriously everything you say.
99You have given me more understanding than those who teach me,
for I’ve absorbed your eye-opening revelation.
100You have graced me with more insight than the old sages
because I have not failed to walk in the light of your ways.
101I refused to bend my morals when temptation was before me
so that I could become obedient to your Word.
102I refuse to turn away from difficult truths,
for you yourself have taught me to love your words.
103How sweet are your living promises to me;
sweeter than honey is your revelation-light.
104For your truth is the source of my understanding,
not the falsehoods of those who don’t know you, which I despise.
Truth’s Shining Light
105Truth’s shining light guides me in my choices and decisions;
the revelation of your Word makes my pathway clear.
106To live my life by your righteous rules
has been my holy and lifelong commitment.
107I’m bruised and broken, overwhelmed by it all;
breathe life into me again by your living word.
108Lord, receive my grateful thanks
and teach me more of how to please you.
109Even though my life hangs in the balance,
I’ll keep following what you’ve taught me, no matter what.
110The ungodly have done their best to throw me off track,
but I’ll not deviate from what you’ve told me to do.
111Everything you speak to me is like joyous treasure,
filling my life with gladness.
112I have determined in my heart to obey whatever you say,
fully and forever!
Trust and Obey
113I despise those who can’t keep commitments,
for I passionately love your revelation-light!
114You’re my place of quiet retreat, and your wraparound presence
becomes my shield as I wrap myself in your Word!
115Go away! Leave me, all you workers of wickedness,
for you can’t stop me from following every command of my God.
116Lord, strengthen my inner being by the promises of your Word
so that I may live faithful and unashamed for you.
117Lift me up and I will be safe.
Empower me to live every moment in the light of your ways.
118Lord, you reject those who reject your laws,
for they fool no one but themselves!
119The wicked are thrown away, discarded and valueless.
That’s why I will keep loving all of your laws!
120My body trembles in holy awe of you, leaving me speechless,
for I’m frightened of your righteous judgments.
I Will Follow Your Ways
121Don’t leave me to the mercies of those who hate me,
for I live to do what is just and fair.
122Let me hear your promise of blessing over my life,
breaking me free from the proud oppressors.
123As a lovesick lover, I yearn for more of your salvation
and for your virtuous promises.
124Let me feel your tender love, for I am yours.
Give me more understanding of your wonderful ways.
125I need more revelation from your Word
to know more about you, for I’m in love with you!
126Lord, the time has come for you to break through,
for evil men keep breaking your laws.
127Truly, your message of truth means more to me
than a vault filled with the purest gold.
128Every word you speak, every truth revealed, is always right
and beautiful to me, for I hate what is phony or false.
I Long to Obey You
129Your marvelous words are living miracles;
no wonder I long to obey everything you say.
130Break open your Word within me until revelation-light shines out!
Those with open hearts are given insight into your plans.
131I open my mouth and inhale the Word of God
because I crave the revelation of your commands.
132Turn your heart to me, Lord, and show me your grace
like you do to every one of your godly lovers.
133Prepare before me a path filled with your promises,
and don’t allow even one sin to have dominion over me.
134Rescue me from the oppression of ungodly men
so that I can keep all your precepts.
135Smile on me, # 119:135 Or “Cause your face to shine on me.” your loving servant.
Instruct me in what is right in your eyes.
136When I witness the rebellious breaking your laws,
it makes me weep uncontrollably!
His Word Is True
137Lord, your judgments reveal your righteousness,
and your verdicts are always fair.
138The motive behind your every word is pure,
and your teachings are remarkably faithful and true.
139I’ve been consumed with a furious passion to do what’s right,
all because of the way my enemies disrespect your laws.
140All your promises glow with fire; # 119:140 As translated from the Septuagint and implied in the Hebrew.
that’s why I’m a lover of your Word.
141Even though I’m considered insignificant and despised
by the world, I’ll never abandon your ways.
142Your righteousness has no end; it is everlasting,
and your rules are perfectly fair.
143Even though my troubles overwhelm me with anguish,
I still delight and cherish every message you speak to me.
144Give me more revelation so that I can live for you,
for nothing is more pure and eternal than your truth.
Save Me, God
145Answer my passionate prayer, O Lord,
and I’ll obey everything you say.
146Save me, God, and I’ll follow your every instruction.
147Before the day dawns, I’ll be crying out for help
and wrapping your words into my life.
148I lie awake every night pondering your promises to me.
149Lord, listen to my heart’s cry, for I know your love is real for me;
breathe life into me again by the revelation of your justice.
150Here they come—these lawless rebels are coming near,
but they are all so far away from your laws.
151God, you are near me always, so close to me;
every one of your commands reveals truth.
152I’ve known all along how true and unchanging
is every word you speak, established forever!
Breathe Life into Me Again
153Look upon all my misery and come be my hero to rescue me,
for I will never forget what you’ve revealed to me.
154Take my side and defend me in these sufferings;
redeem me and revive me, just like you promised you would.
155The wicked are so far from salvation,
for they could not care less about your message of truth.
156Your tender mercies are what I need, O God;
give me back my life again
through the revelation of your judgments.
157I have so many enemies who persecute me,
yet I won’t swerve from following your ways.
158I grieve when I see how the faithless ones live,
for they just walk away from your promises.
159Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions.
So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again.
160The sum total of all your words adds up to absolute truth,
and every one of your righteous decrees is everlasting.
Devoted to God’s Word
161The powerful elite have persecuted me without a cause,
but my heart trembles in awe because of your miracle-words.
162Your promises are the source of my bubbling joy;
the revelation of your Word thrills me
like one who has discovered hidden treasure.
163I despise every lie and hate every falsehood,
for I am passionate about keeping your precepts.
164I stop to praise you seven times a day,
all because your ways are perfect!
165There is such a great peace and well-being that comes
to the lovers of your Word, and they will never be offended.
166Lord, I’m longing for more of your salvation,
for I want to do what pleases you.
167My love for your ways is indescribable;
in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly!
168I will keep your instructions and follow your counsel;
all my ways are an open book before you.
I Want to Follow You
169Lord, listen to my prayer. It’s like a sacrifice I bring to you;
I must have more revelation of your Word!
170Take my words to heart when I ask you, Lord;
rescue me, just like you promised!
171I offer you my joyous praise for all that you’ve taught me.
172Your wonderful words will become my song of worship,
for everything you’ve commanded is perfect and true.
173Place your hands of strength and favor upon me,
for I’ve made my choice to follow your ways.
174I wait for your deliverance, O Lord,
for your words thrill me like nothing else!
175Invigorate my life so that I can praise you even more,
and may your truth be my strength!
176I’ll never forget what you’ve taught me, Lord,
but when I wander off and lose my way,
come after me, for I am your beloved!
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Psalms 119: TPT
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Learn More About The Passion TranslationPsalms 119
119
Psalm 119#sn Psalm 119. The psalmist celebrates God’s law and the guidance it provides his people. He expresses his desire to know God’s law thoroughly so that he might experience the blessings that come to those who obey it. This lengthy psalm exhibits an elaborate acrostic pattern. The psalm is divided into twenty-two sections (corresponding to the letters of the Hebrew alphabet), each of which is comprised of eight verses. Each of the verses in the first section (vv. 1-8) begins with the letter alef (א), the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This pattern continues throughout the psalm as each new section highlights a successive letter of the alphabet. Each verse in section two (vv. 9-16) begins with the second letter of the alphabet, each verse in section three (vv. 17-24) with the third letter, etc. This rigid pattern creates a sense of order and completeness and may have facilitated memorization.
א (Alef)
1 How blessed are those whose actions are blameless,#tn Heb “[Oh] the happiness of those who are blameless of way.”
who obey#tn Heb “walk in.” the law of the Lord.
2 How blessed are those who observe his rules,
and seek him with all their heart,
3 who, moreover, do no wrong,
but follow in his footsteps.#tn Heb “walk in his ways.”
4 You demand that your precepts
be carefully kept.#tn Heb “you, you commanded your precepts, to keep, very much.”
5 If only I were predisposed#tn Heb “if only my ways were established.”
to keep your statutes!
6 Then I would not be ashamed,
if#tn Or “when.” I were focused on#tn Heb “I gaze at.” all your commands.
7 I will give you sincere thanks,#tn Heb “I will give you thanks with an upright heart.”
when I learn your just regulations.
8 I will keep your statutes.
Do not completely abandon me!#tn Heb “do not abandon me to excess.” For other uses of the phrase עַד מְאֹד (’ad mÿ’od, “to excess”), see Ps 38:6, 8.
ב (Bet)
9 How can a young person#tn Heb “young man.” Hebrew wisdom literature often assumes and reflects the male-oriented perspective of ancient Israelite society. The principle of the psalm is certainly applicable to all people, regardless of their gender or age. To facilitate modern application, the gender specific “young man” has been translated with the more neutral “young person.” maintain a pure life?#tn Heb “purify his path.”
By guarding it according to your instructions!#tn Heb “by keeping according to your word.” Many medieval Hebrew mss as well as the LXX read the plural, “your words.”
10 With all my heart I seek you.
Do not allow me to stray from your commands!
11 In my heart I store up#tn Or “hide.” your words,#tn Heb “your word.” Some medieval Hebrew mss as well as the LXX read the plural, “your words.”
so I might not sin against you.
12 You deserve praise,#tn Heb “[are] blessed.” O Lord!
Teach me your statutes!
13 With my lips I proclaim
all the regulations you have revealed.#tn Heb “of your mouth.”
14 I rejoice in the lifestyle prescribed by your rules#tn Heb “in the way of your rules.”
as if#tn Heb “as upon,” meaning “as if” (see 2 Chr 32:19). they were riches of all kinds.#tn Heb “all wealth.” The phrase refers to all kinds of wealth and riches. See Prov 1:13; 6:31; 24:4; Ezek 27:12, 18.
15 I will meditate on#tn The cohortative verbal forms in this verse express the psalmist’s resolve. your precepts
and focus#tn Heb “gaze [at].” on your behavior.#tn Heb “ways” (referring figuratively to God’s behavior here).
16 I find delight#tn The imperfects in this verse emphasize the attitude the psalmist maintains toward God’s law. Another option is to translate with the future tense, “I will find delight…I will not forget.” in your statutes;
I do not forget your instructions.#tn Heb “your word.” Many medieval Hebrew mss as well as the LXX read the plural here.
ג (Gimel)
17 Be kind to your servant!
Then I will live#tn The prefixed verbal form is probably a cohortative indicating purpose/result after the preceding imperative. and keep#tn The cohortative with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the imperative that begins the verse. your instructions.#tn Heb “your word.” Many medieval Hebrew mss as well as several ancient versions read the plural here.
18 Open#tn Heb “uncover.” The verb form גַּל (gal) is an apocopated Piel imperative from גָּלָה (galah, see GKC 214 §75.cc). my eyes so I can truly see#tn The cohortative with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative.
the marvelous things in your law!
19 I am like a foreigner in this land.#tn Heb “I am a resident alien in the land.” Resident aliens were especially vulnerable and in need of help. They needed to know the social and legal customs of the land to avoid getting into trouble. The translation (note the addition of “like”) assumes the psalmist is speaking metaphorically, not literally.
Do not hide your commands from me!
20 I desperately long to know#tn Heb “my soul languishes for longing for.”
your regulations at all times.
21 You reprimand arrogant people.
Those who stray from your commands are doomed.#tn Heb “accursed.” The traditional punctuation of the Hebrew text takes “accursed” with the previous line (“arrogant, accursed ones”), but it is preferable to take it with the second line as the predicate of the statement.
22 Spare me#tn Heb “roll away from upon me.” Some derive the imperatival form גַּל (gal) from גָּלָה (galah, “uncover,” as in v. 18), but here the form is from גָּלַל (galal, “roll”; see Josh 5:9, where חֶרְפָּה [kherpah, “shame; reproach”] also appears as object of the verb). Some, following the lead of a Dead Sea scroll (11QPsa), emend the form to גֹּל (gol). shame and humiliation,
for I observe your rules.
23 Though rulers plot and slander me,#tn Heb “though rulers sit, about me they talk together.” (For another example of the Niphal of דָּבַר (davar) used with a suffixed form of the preposition ב, see Ezek 33:30.)
your servant meditates on your statutes.
24 Yes, I find delight in your rules;
they give me guidance.#tn Heb “men of my counsel.” That is, God’s rules are like advisers to the psalmist, for they teach him how to live in a godly manner that refutes the accusations of his enemies.
ד (Dalet)
25 I collapse in the dirt.#tn Heb “my soul clings to the dirt.” The Hebrew term נֶפֶשׁ (nefesh, “being; soul”) with a pronominal suffix is often equivalent to a pronoun, especially in poetry (see BDB 660 s.v. נֶפֶשׁ 4.a).
Revive me with your word!#tn Heb “according to your word.” Many medieval Hebrew mss read the plural “your words.”
26 I told you about my ways#tn Heb “my ways I proclaimed.” and you answered me.
Teach me your statutes!
27 Help me to understand what your precepts mean!#tn Heb “the way of your precepts make me understand.”
Then I can meditate#tn The cohortative with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. on your marvelous teachings.#tn Heb “your amazing things,” which refers here to the teachings of the law (see v. 18).
28 I collapse#tn Some translate “my soul weeps,” taking the verb דָלַף (dalaf) from a root meaning “to drip; to drop” (BDB 196 s.v. דֶּלַף). On the basis of cognate evidence from Arabic and Akkadian, HALOT 223 s.v. II דלף proposes a homonymic root here, meaning “be sleepless.” Following L. C. Allen (Psalms 101-150 [WBC], 127, 135) the translation assumes that the verb is cognate with Ugaritic dlp, “to collapse; to crumple” in CTA 2 iv. 17, 26. See G. R. Driver, Canaanite Myths and Legends, 44, 144. from grief.
Sustain me by your word!#tn Heb “according to your word.” Many medieval Hebrew mss read the plural “your words.”
29 Remove me from the path of deceit!#tn The “path of deceit” refers to a lifestyle characterized by deceit and disloyalty to God. It stands in contrast to the “way of faithfulness” in v. 30.
Graciously give me#tn Heb “be gracious to me.” The verb is used metonymically here for “graciously giving” the law. (See Gen 33:5, where Jacob uses this verb in describing how God had graciously given him children.) your law!
30 I choose the path of faithfulness;
I am committed to#tn BDB 1000-1001 s.v. I שָׁוָה derives the verb from the first homonym listed, meaning “to agree with; to be like; to resemble.” It here means (in the Piel stem) “to be accounted suitable,” which in turn would mean by metonymy “to accept; to be committed to.” Some prefer to derive the verb from a homonym meaning “to place; to set,” but in this case an elliptical prepositional phrase must be understood, “I place your regulations [before me]” (see Ps 16:8). your regulations.
31 I hold fast#tn Or “cling to.” to your rules.
O Lord, do not let me be ashamed!
32 I run along the path of your commands,
for you enable me to do so.#tn Heb “for you make wide my heart.” The “heart” is viewed here as the seat of the psalmist’s volition and understanding. The Lord gives the psalmist the desire and moral understanding that are foundational to the willing obedience depicted metaphorically in the preceding line. In Isa 60:5 the expression “your heart will be wide” means “your heart will swell with pride,” but here the nuance appears to be different.
ה (He)
33 Teach me, O Lord, the lifestyle prescribed by your statutes,#tn Heb “the way of your statutes.”
so that I might observe it continually.#tn Heb “and I will keep it to the end.” The prefixed verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. The Hebrew term עֵקֶב (’eqev) is understood to mean “end” here. Another option is to take עֵקֶב (’eqev) as meaning “reward” here (see Ps 19:11) and to translate, “so that I might observe it and be rewarded.”
34 Give me understanding so that I might observe your law,
and keep it with all my heart.#tn The two prefixed verbal forms with vav (ו) conjunctive indicate purpose/result after the introductory imperative.
35 Guide me#tn Or “make me walk.” in the path of your commands,
for I delight to walk in it.#tn Heb “for in it I delight.”
36 Give me a desire for your rules,#tn Heb “turn my heart to your rules.”
rather than for wealth gained unjustly.#tn Heb “and not unjust gain.”
37 Turn my eyes away from what is worthless!#tn Heb “Make my eyes pass by from looking at what is worthless.”
Revive me with your word!#tn Heb “by your word.”
38 Confirm to your servant your promise,#tn Heb “word.”
which you made to the one who honors you.#tn Heb “which [is] for your fear,” that is, the promise made to those who exhibit fear of God.
39 Take away the insults that I dread!#tn Heb “my reproach that I fear.”
Indeed,#tn Or “for.” your regulations are good.
40 Look, I long for your precepts.
Revive me with your deliverance!#tn Or “righteousness.”
ו (Vav)
41 May I experience your loyal love,#tn Heb “and may your loyal love come to me.” O Lord,
and your deliverance,#tn Or “salvation” (so many English versions). as you promised.#tn Heb “according to your word.”
42 Then I will have a reply for the one who insults me,#tn Heb “and I will answer [the] one who insults me a word.” The prefixed verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the jussive (see v. 41).
for I trust in your word.
43 Do not completely deprive me of a truthful testimony,#tn Heb “do not snatch from my mouth a word of truth to excess.” The psalmist wants to be able to give a reliable testimony about the Lord’s loyal love (vv. 41-42), but if God does not intervene, the psalmist will be deprived of doing so, for the evidence of such love (i.e., deliverance) will be lacking.
for I await your justice.
44 Then I will keep#tn The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the negated jussive (see v. 43). your law continually
now and for all time.#tn Or “forever and ever.”
45 I will be secure,#tn Heb “and I will walk about in a wide place.” The cohortative with prefixed vav (ו) conjunctive gives a further consequence of the anticipated positive divine response (see vv. 43-44). Another option is to take the cohortative as expressing the psalmist’s request. In this case one could translate, “and please give me security.”
for I seek your precepts.
46 I will speak#tn The series of four cohortatives with prefixed vav (ו) conjunctive in vv. 46-48 list further consequences of the anticipated positive divine response to the request made in v. 43. about your regulations before kings
and not be ashamed.
47 I will find delight in your commands,
which I love.
48 I will lift my hands to#tn Lifting the hands is often associated with prayer (Pss 28:2; 63:4; Lam 2:19). (1) Because praying to God’s law borders on the extreme, some prefer to emend the text to “I lift up my hands to you,” eliminating “your commands, which I love” as dittographic. In this view these words were accidentally repeated from the previous verse. (2) However, it is possible that the psalmist closely associates the law with God himself because he views the law as the expression of the divine will. (3) Another option is that “lifting the hands” does not refer to prayer here, but to the psalmist’s desire to receive and appropriate the law. (4) Still others understand this to be an action praising God’s commands (so NCV; cf. TEV, CEV, NLT). your commands,
which I love,
and I will meditate on your statutes.
ז (Zayin)
49 Remember your word to your servant,
for you have given me hope.
50 This#tn The demonstrative “this” refers back to the hope just mentioned or forward to the statement in the second line concerning the promise’s power to revive. See the note on the word “me” at the end of the verse for further discussion. is what comforts me in my trouble,
for your promise revives me.#tn The hope generated by the promise (see v. 49b) brings comfort because (note “for” at the beginning of the line) the promise revives the psalmist’s spirits. Another option is to take כִּי (ki) at the beginning of the second line in the sense of “that,” in which case “this” refers to the promise’s power to revive.
51 Arrogant people do nothing but scoff at me.#tn Heb “scoff at me to excess.”
Yet I do not turn aside from your law.
52 I remember your ancient regulations,#tn Heb “I remember your regulations from of old.” The prepositional phrase “from of old” apparently modifies “your regulations,” alluding to the fact that God revealed them to Israel in the distant past. Another option is to understand the prepositional phrase as modifying the verb, in which case one might translate, “I have long remembered your regulations.”
O Lord, and console myself.#tn Or “find comfort.”
53 Rage takes hold of me because of the wicked,
those who reject your law.
54 Your statutes have been my songs#tn Heb “songs were your statutes to me.”
in the house where I live.#tn Heb “in the house of my dwelling place.” Some take the Hebrew noun מָגוֹר (magor) in the sense of “temporary abode,” and see this as a reference to the psalmist’s status as a resident alien (see v. 19). But the noun can refer to a dwelling place in general (see Ps 55:15).
55 I remember your name during the night, O Lord,
and I will keep#tn The cohortative verbal form expresses the psalmist’s resolve to obey the law. your law.
56 This#tn Heb “this has been to me.” The demonstrative “this” (1) refers back to the practices mentioned in vv. 54-55, or (2) looks forward to the statement in the second line, in which case the כִּי (ki) at the beginning of the second line should be translated “that.” has been my practice,
for I observe your precepts.
ח (Khet)
57 The Lord is my source of security.#tn Heb “my portion [is] the Lord.” The psalmist compares the Lord to landed property, which was foundational to economic stability in ancient Israel (see Ps 16:5).
I have determined#tn Heb “I said.” to follow your instructions.#tn Heb “to keep your words” (see v. 9).
58 I seek your favor#tn Heb “I appease your face.” with all my heart.
Have mercy on me as you promised!#tn Heb “according to your word.”
59 I consider my actions#tn Heb “my ways.”
and follow#tn Heb “and I turn my feet toward.” your rules.
60 I keep your commands
eagerly and without delay.#tn Heb “I hurry and I do not delay to keep your commands.”
61 The ropes of the wicked tighten around#tn Heb “surround.” me,
but I do not forget your law.
62 In the middle of the night I arise#tn The psalmist uses an imperfect verbal form to emphasize that this is his continuing practice. to thank you
for your just regulations.
63 I am a friend to all your loyal followers,#tn Heb “to all who fear you.”
and to those who keep your precepts.
64 O Lord, your loyal love fills the earth.
Teach me your statutes!
ט (Tet)
65 You are good#tn Heb “do good.” to your servant,
O Lord, just as you promised.#tn Heb “according to your word.”
66 Teach me proper discernment#tn Heb “goodness of taste.” Here “taste” refers to moral and ethical discernment. and understanding!
For I consider your commands to be reliable.#tn Heb “for I believe in your commands.”
67 Before I was afflicted I used to stray off,#tn Heb “before I suffered, I was straying off.”
but now I keep your instructions.#tn Heb “your word.”
68 You are good and you do good.
Teach me your statutes!
69 Arrogant people smear my reputation with lies,#tn Heb “smear over me a lie.”
but I observe your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are calloused,#tn Heb “their heart is insensitive like fat.”
but I find delight in your law.
71 It was good for me to suffer,
so that I might learn your statutes.
72 The law you have revealed is more important to me
than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.#tn Heb “better to me [is] the law of your mouth than thousands of gold and silver.”
י (Yod)
73 Your hands made me and formed me.#tn Heb “made me and established me.” The two verbs also appear together in Deut 32:6, where God, compared to a father, is said to have “made and established” Israel.
Give me understanding so that I might learn#tn The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. your commands.
74 Your loyal followers will be glad when they see me,#tn Heb “those who fear you will see me and rejoice.”
for I find hope in your word.
75 I know, Lord, that your regulations#tn In this context (note the second line) the Hebrew term מִשְׁפָּטִים (mishpatim), which so often refers to the regulations of God’s law elsewhere in this psalm, may refer instead to his decisions or disciplinary judgment. are just.
You disciplined me because of your faithful devotion to me.#tn Heb “and [in] faithfulness you afflicted me.”
76 May your loyal love console me,
as you promised your servant.#tn Heb “according to your word to your servant.”
77 May I experience your compassion,#tn Heb “and may your compassion come to me.” so I might live!
For I find delight in your law.
78 May the arrogant be humiliated, for they have slandered me!#tn Heb “for [with] falsehood they have denied me justice.”
But I meditate on your precepts.
79 May your loyal followers#tn Heb “those who fear you.” turn to me,
those who know your rules.
80 May I be fully committed to your statutes,#tn Heb “may my heart be complete in your statutes.”
so that I might not be ashamed.
כ (Kaf)
81 I desperately long for#tn Heb “my soul pines for.” See Ps 84:2. your deliverance.
I find hope in your word.
82 My eyes grow tired as I wait for your promise to be fulfilled.#tn Heb “my eyes fail for your word.” The psalmist has intently kept his eyes open, looking for God to intervene, but now his eyes are watery and bloodshot, impairing his vision. See Ps 69:3.
I say,#tn Heb “saying.” “When will you comfort me?”
83 For#tn Or “even though.” I am like a wineskin#tn The Hebrew word נֹאד (no’d, “leather container”) refers to a container made from animal skin which is used to hold wine or milk (see Josh 9:4, 13; Judg 4:19; 1 Sam 16:20). dried up in smoke.#tn Heb “in the smoke.”
I do not forget your statutes.
84 How long must your servant endure this?#tn Heb “How long are the days of your servant?”
When will you judge those who pursue me?
85 The arrogant dig pits to trap me,#tn Heb “for me.”
which violates your law.#tn Heb “which [is] not according to your law.”
86 All your commands are reliable.
I am pursued without reason.#sn God’s commands are a reliable guide to right and wrong. By keeping them the psalmist is doing what is right, yet he is still persecuted. Help me!
87 They have almost destroyed me here on the earth,
but I do not reject your precepts.
88 Revive me with#tn Heb “according to.” your loyal love,
that I might keep#tn The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. the rules you have revealed.#tn Heb “of your mouth.”
ל (Lamed)
89 O Lord, your instructions endure;
they stand secure in heaven.#tn Heb “Forever, O Lord, your word stands firm in heaven,” or “Forever, O Lord, [is] your word; it stands firm in heaven.” The translation assumes that “your word” refers here to the body of divine instructions contained in the law (note the frequent references to the law in vv. 92-96). See vv. 9, 16-17, 57, 101, 105, 130, 139 and 160-61. The reference in v. 86 to God’s law being faithful favors this interpretation. Another option is that “your word” refers to God’s assuring word of promise, mentioned in vv. 25, 28, 42, 65, 74, 81, 107, 114, 147 and 169. In this case one might translate, “O Lord, your promise is reliable, it stands firm in heaven.”
90 You demonstrate your faithfulness to all generations.#tn Heb “to a generation and a generation [is] your faithfulness.”
You established the earth and it stood firm.
91 Today they stand firm by your decrees,
for all things are your servants.
92 If I had not found encouragement in your law,#tn Heb “if your law had not been my delight.”
I would have died in my sorrow.#tn Or “my suffering.”
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have revived me.
94 I belong to you. Deliver me!
For I seek your precepts.
95 The wicked prepare to kill me,#tn Heb “the wicked wait for me to kill me.”
yet I concentrate on your rules.
96 I realize that everything has its limits,
but your commands are beyond full comprehension.#tn Heb “to every perfection I have seen an end, your command is very wide.” God’s law is beyond full comprehension, which is why the psalmist continually studies it (vv. 95, 97).
מ (Mem)
97 O how I love your law!
All day long I meditate on it.
98 Your commandments#tn The plural form needs to be revocalized as a singular in order to agree with the preceding singular verb and the singular pronoun in the next line. The Lord’s “command” refers here to the law (see Ps 19:8). make me wiser than my enemies,
for I am always aware of them.
99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
for I meditate on your rules.
100 I am more discerning than those older than I,
for I observe your precepts.
101 I stay away#tn Heb “I hold back my feet.” from the evil path,
so that I might keep your instructions.#tn Heb “your word.” Many medieval Hebrew mss read the plural.
102 I do not turn aside from your regulations,
for you teach me.
103 Your words are sweeter
in my mouth than honey!#tn Heb “How smooth they are to my palate, your word, more than honey to my mouth.” A few medieval Hebrew mss, as well as several other ancient witnesses, read the plural “your words,” which can then be understood as the subject of the plural verb “they are smooth.”
104 Your precepts give me discernment.
Therefore I hate all deceitful actions.#tn Heb “every false path.”
נ (Nun)
105 Your word#tn Many medieval Hebrew mss read the plural (“words”). is a lamp to walk by,
and a light to illumine my path.#tn Heb “[is] a lamp for my foot and a light for my path.”
106 I have vowed and solemnly sworn
to keep your just regulations.
107 I am suffering terribly.
O Lord, revive me with your word!#tn Heb “according to your word.”
108 O Lord, please accept the freewill offerings of my praise!#tn Heb “of my mouth.”
Teach me your regulations!
109 My life is in continual danger,#tn Heb “my life [is] in my hands continually.”
but I do not forget your law.
110 The wicked lay a trap for me,
but I do not wander from your precepts.
111 I claim your rules as my permanent possession,
for they give me joy.#tn Heb “for the joy of my heart [are] they.”
112 I am determined to obey#tn Heb “I turn my heart to do.” your statutes
at all times, to the very end.
ס (Samek)
ֹ119:113 I hate people with divided loyalties,#tn Heb “divided ones.” The word occurs only here; it appears to be derived from a verbal root, attested in Arabic, meaning “to split” (see HALOT 762 s.v. *סֵעֵף). Since the psalmist is emphasizing his unswerving allegiance to God and his law, the term probably refers to those who lack such loyalty. The translation is similar to that suggested by L. C. Allen, Psalms 101-150 (WBC), 131.
but I love your law.
114 You are my hiding place and my shield.
I find hope in your word.
115 Turn away from me, you evil men,
so that I can observe#tn The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. the commands of my God.#tn The psalmist has already declared that he observes God’s commands despite persecution, so here the idea must be “so that I might observe the commands of my God unhindered by threats.”
116 Sustain me as you promised,#tn Heb “according to your word.” so that I will live.#tn The prefixed verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative.
Do not disappoint me!#tn Heb “do not make me ashamed of my hope.” After the Hebrew verb בּוֹשׁ (bosh, “to be ashamed”) the preposition מִן (min, “from”) often introduces the reason for shame.
117 Support me, so that I will be delivered.
Then I will focus#tn Or “and that I might focus.” The two cohortatives with vav (ו) conjunctive indicate purpose/result after the imperative at the beginning of the verse. on your statutes continually.
118 You despise#tn The Hebrew verb סָלָה (salah, “to disdain”) occurs only here and in Lam 1:15. Cognate usage in Aramaic and Akkadian, as well as Lam 1:15, suggest it may have a concrete nuance of “to throw away.” all who stray from your statutes,
for they are deceptive and unreliable.#tn Heb “for their deceit [is] falsehood.”
119 You remove all the wicked of the earth like slag.#sn Traditionally “dross” (so KJV, ASV, NIV). The metaphor comes from metallurgy; “slag” is the substance left over after the metallic ore has been refined.
Therefore I love your rules.#sn As he explains in the next verse, the psalmist’s fear of judgment motivates him to obey God’s rules.
120 My body#tn Heb “my flesh.” trembles#tn The Hebrew verb סָמַר (samar, “to tremble”) occurs only here and in Job 4:15. because I fear you;#tn Heb “from fear of you.” The pronominal suffix on the noun is an objective genitive.
I am afraid of your judgments.
ע (Ayin)
121 I do what is fair and right.#tn Heb “do justice and righteousness.”
Do not abandon me to my oppressors!
122 Guarantee the welfare of your servant!#tn Heb “be surety for your servant for good.”
Do not let the arrogant oppress me!
123 My eyes grow tired as I wait for your deliverance,#tn Heb “my eyes fail for your deliverance.” The psalmist has intently kept his eyes open, looking for God to intervene, but now his eyes are watery and bloodshot, impairing his vision. See the similar phrase in v. 82.
for your reliable promise to be fulfilled.#tn Heb “and for the word of your faithfulness.”
124 Show your servant your loyal love!#tn Heb “do with your servant according to your loyal love.”
Teach me your statutes!
125 I am your servant. Give me insight,
so that I can understand#tn or “know.” The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. your rules.
126 It is time for the Lord to act –
they break your law!
127 For this reason#tn “For this reason” connects logically with the statement made in v. 126. Because the judgment the psalmist fears (see vv. 119-120) is imminent, he remains loyal to God’s law. I love your commands
more than gold, even purest gold.
128 For this reason I carefully follow all your precepts.#tn Heb “for this reason all the precepts of everything I regard as right.” The phrase “precepts of everything” is odd. It is preferable to take the kaf (כ) on כֹּל (kol, “everything) with the preceding form as a pronominal suffix, “your precepts,” and the lamed (ל) with the following verb as an emphatic particle. See L. C. Allen, Psalms 101-150 (WBC), 138.
I hate all deceitful actions.#tn Heb “every false path.”
פ (Pe)
129 Your rules are marvelous.
Therefore I observe them.
130 Your instructions are a doorway through which light shines.#tn Heb “the doorway of your words gives light.” God’s “words” refer here to the instructions in his law (see vv. 9, 57).
They give#tn Heb “it [i.e., the doorway] gives.” insight to the untrained.#tn Or “the [morally] naive,” that is, the one who is young and still in the process of learning right from wrong and distinguishing wisdom from folly. See Pss 19:7; 116:6.
131 I open my mouth and pant,
because I long#tn The verb occurs only here in the OT. for your commands.
132 Turn toward me and extend mercy to me,
as you typically do to your loyal followers.#tn Heb “according to custom toward the lovers of your name.” The “lovers of” God’s “name” are the Lord’s loyal followers. See Pss 5:11; 69:36; Isa 56:6.
133 Direct my steps by your word!#tn God’s “word” refers here to his law (see v. 11).
Do not let any sin dominate me!
134 Deliver me#tn Or “redeem me.” from oppressive men,
so that I can keep#tn The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. your precepts.
135 Smile#tn Heb “cause your face to shine.” on your servant!
Teach me your statutes!
136 Tears stream down from my eyes,#tn Heb “[with] flowing streams my eyes go down.”
because people#tn Heb “they”; even though somewhat generic, the referent (people) has been specified in the translation for clarity. do not keep your law.
צ (Tsade)
137 You are just, O Lord,
and your judgments are fair.
138 The rules you impose are just,#tn Heb “you commanded [in] justice your rules.”
and absolutely reliable.
139 My zeal#tn or “zeal.” consumes#tn Heb “destroys,” in a hyperbolic sense. me,
for my enemies forget your instructions.#tn Heb “your words.”
140 Your word is absolutely pure,
and your servant loves it!
141 I am insignificant and despised,
yet I do not forget your precepts.
142 Your justice endures,#tn Heb “your justice [is] justice forever.”
and your law is reliable.#tn Or “truth.”
143 Distress and hardship confront#tn Heb “find.” me,
yet I find delight in your commands.
144 Your rules remain just.#tn Heb “just are your rules forever.”
Give me insight so that I can live.#tn The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative.
ק (Qof)
145 I cried out with all my heart, “Answer me, O Lord!
I will observe your statutes.”
146 I cried out to you, “Deliver me,
so that I can keep#tn The cohortative verbal form with vav (ו) conjunctive indicates purpose/result after the preceding imperative. your rules.”
147 I am up before dawn crying for help.
I find hope in your word.
148 My eyes anticipate the nighttime hours,
so that I can meditate on your word.
149 Listen to me#tn Heb “my voice.” because of#tn Heb “according to.” your loyal love!
O Lord, revive me, as you typically do!#tn Heb “according to your custom.”
150 Those who are eager to do#tn Heb “those who pursue.” wrong draw near;
they are far from your law.
151 You are near, O Lord,
and all your commands are reliable.#tn Or “truth.”
152 I learned long ago that
you ordained your rules to last.#tn Heb “long ago I knew concerning your rules, that forever you established them.” See v. 89 for the same idea. The translation assumes that the preposition מִן (min) prefixed to “your rules” introduces the object of the verb יָדַע (yada’), as in 1 Sam 23:23. Another option is that the preposition indicates source, in which case one might translate, “Long ago I realized from your rules that forever you established them” (cf. NIV, NRSV).
ר (Resh)
153 See my pain and rescue me!
For I do not forget your law.
154 Fight for me#tn Or “argue my case.” and defend me!#tn Heb “and redeem me.” The verb “redeem” casts the Lord in the role of a leader who protects members of his extended family in times of need and crisis (see Ps 19:14).
Revive me with your word!
155 The wicked have no chance for deliverance,#tn Heb “far from the wicked [is] deliverance.”
for they do not seek your statutes.
156 Your compassion is great, O Lord.
Revive me, as you typically do!#tn Heb “according to your customs.”
157 The enemies who chase me are numerous.#tn Heb “many [are] those who chase me and my enemies.”
Yet I do not turn aside from your rules.
158 I take note of the treacherous and despise them,
because they do not keep your instructions.#tn Heb “your word.”
159 See how I love your precepts!
O Lord, revive me with your loyal love!
160 Your instructions are totally reliable;
all your just regulations endure.#tn Heb “the head of your word is truth, and forever [is] all your just regulation.” The term “head” is used here of the “sum total” of God’s instructions.
שׂ/שׁ (Sin/Shin)
161 Rulers pursue me for no reason,
yet I am more afraid of disobeying your instructions.#tn Heb “and because of your instructions my heart trembles.” The psalmist’s healthy “fear” of the consequences of violating God’s instructions motivates him to obey them. See v. 120.
162 I rejoice in your instructions,
like one who finds much plunder.#tn Heb “like one who finds great plunder.” See Judg 5:30. The image is that of a victorious warrior who finds a large amount of plunder on the field of battle.
163 I hate and despise deceit;
I love your law.
164 Seven#tn The number “seven” is use rhetorically to suggest thoroughness. times a day I praise you
because of your just regulations.
165 Those who love your law are completely secure;#tn Heb “great peace [is] to the lovers of your law.”
nothing causes them to stumble.#tn Heb “and there is no stumbling to them.”
166 I hope for your deliverance, O Lord,
and I obey#tn Heb “do.” your commands.
167 I keep your rules;
I love them greatly.
168 I keep your precepts and rules,
for you are aware of everything I do.#tn Heb “for all my ways [are] before you.”
ת (Tav)
169 Listen to my cry for help,#tn Heb “may my cry approach before you.” O Lord!
Give me insight by your word!
170 Listen to my appeal for mercy!#tn Heb “may my appeal for mercy come before you.”
Deliver me, as you promised.#tn Heb “according to your speech.”
171 May praise flow freely from my lips,
for you teach me your statutes.
172 May my tongue sing about your instructions,#tn Heb “your word.”
for all your commands are just.
173 May your hand help me,
for I choose to obey#tn The words “to obey” are not in the Hebrew text, but have been supplied in the translation for stylistic reasons and for clarity. your precepts.
174 I long for your deliverance, O Lord;
I find delight in your law.
175 May I#tn Heb “my life.” live and praise you!
May your regulations help me!#tn God’s regulations will “help” the psalmist by giving him moral and ethical guidance.
176 I have wandered off like a lost sheep.#tn Heb “I stray like a lost sheep.” It is possible that the point of the metaphor is vulnerability: The psalmist, who is threatened by his enemies, feels as vulnerable as a straying, lost sheep. This would not suggest, however, that he has wandered from God’s path (see the second half of the verse, as well as v. 110).
Come looking for your servant,
for I do not forget your commands.
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