Psalm 119
119
Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet
Aleph
1 # 119:1 This psalm is an acrostic poem of twenty-two stanzas, following the letters of the Hebrew alphabet; within a stanza, each verse begins with the same Hebrew letter Blessed are those whose #Prov. 11:20; 13:6; [Ps. 101:2, 6] way is blameless,
who #Ps. 128:1; [Gen. 17:1]walk in the law of the Lord!
2Blessed are those who #[ver. 22] keep his #[Ps. 78:5] testimonies,
who #[ver. 10; 2 Chr. 15:2]seek him with their whole heart,
3who also #1 John 3:9; 5:18do no wrong,
but walk in his ways!
4You have commanded your #Ps. 19:8precepts
to be kept diligently.
5Oh that my ways may #Ps. 37:23; [Prov. 16:9; Jer. 10:23]be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
6 # ver. 80; [1 John 2:28] Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
7I will praise you with an upright heart,
when I learn #ver. 62, 106; Ex. 24:3your righteous rules.#119:7 Or your just and righteous decrees; also verses 62, 106, 160, 164
8I will keep your statutes;
#
Ps. 38:21; 71:9, 18 do not utterly forsake me!
Beth
9How can #[Ps. 25:7]a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 # [2 Chr. 15:2] With my whole heart I seek you;
let me not #[ver. 21, 118]wander from your commandments!
11I have #Luke 2:19, 51; See Ps. 37:31stored up your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12Blessed are you, O Lord;
# ver. 26, 64, 68, 108, 124, 135, 171; See Ps. 25:4 teach me your statutes!
13With my lips I #Ps. 40:9; [Deut. 6:7]declare
all the rules#119:13 Or all the just decrees of your mouth.
14In the way of your testimonies I #ver. 111, 162 delight
as much as in all #See Prov. 3:13-15; 8:10, 11, 18, 19riches.
15I will #ver. 23, 78, 97 meditate on your precepts
and fix my eyes on your #Ps. 25:4ways.
16I will #ver. 24, 47, 70, 77, 92, 143, 174delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.
Gimel
17 # See Ps. 13:6 Deal bountifully with your servant,
# ver. 144 that I may live and keep your word.
18Open my eyes, that I may behold
wondrous things out of your law.
19I am #See Ps. 39:12 a sojourner on the earth;
# [Isa. 6:9, 10] hide not your commandments from me!
20My soul is consumed with #ver. 40, 131, 174; [Ps. 42:1, 2]longing
for your rules#119:20 Or your just decrees; also verses 30, 39, 43, 52, 75, 102, 108, 137, 156, 175 at all times.
21You rebuke #See ver. 51 the insolent, #Deut. 27:26 accursed ones,
who #[ver. 10]wander from your commandments.
22Take away from me #See Ps. 44:13 scorn and contempt,
# [ver. 2] for I have kept your testimonies.
23Even though #ver. 161; [Dan. 6:4] princes sit plotting against me,
your servant will #ver. 15, 27, 28meditate on your statutes.
24Your testimonies are my #[Rom. 7:22]; See ver. 16 delight;
they are my #[ver. 104]counselors.
Daleth
25 #
Ps. 44:25 My soul clings to the dust;
# ver. 37, 40, 88, 107, 149, 154, 156, 159; See Ps. 71:20 give me life #ver. 65according to your word!
26When #[Ps. 37:5] I told of my ways, you answered me;
# ver. 12 teach me your statutes!
27 # ver. 18, 34, 73, 125, 144, 169; [Job 32:8] Make me understand the way of your precepts,
and I will #ver. 15, 23, 78meditate on your wondrous works.
28 # See Ps. 22:14 My soul melts away for sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word!
29Put false ways far from me
and graciously #[ver. 27]teach me your law!
30I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I #[Ps. 16:8]set your rules before me.
31I cling to your testimonies, O Lord;
# ver. 116 let me not be put to shame!
32I will run in the way of your commandments
when you #1 Kgs. 4:29; Isa. 60:5; 2 Cor. 6:11, 13enlarge my heart!#119:32 Or for you set my heart free
He
33 # ver. 12, 26 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes;
and I will keep it #ver. 112; [Matt. 10:22; Heb. 3:6; Rev. 2:26]to the end.#119:33 Or keep it as my reward
34 # ver. 27; Prov. 2:6; James 1:5 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
and observe it with my whole heart.
35 # See Ps. 25:4, 5 Lead me in the path of your commandments,
for I #ver. 16; See Ps. 1:2delight in it.
36 # ver. 112; 1 Kgs. 8:58; [Ps. 141:4] Incline my heart to your testimonies,
and not to #[Luke 12:15; 1 Tim. 6:10; Heb. 13:5]selfish gain!
37 # [Prov. 23:5; Isa. 33:15] Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things;
and #ver. 25give me life in your ways.
38 #
2 Sam. 7:25 Confirm to your servant your promise,
# [Ps. 25:10; 112:1; 128:1; 130:4] that you may be feared.
39Turn away the #ver. 22reproach that I dread,
for your rules are good.
40Behold, I #ver. 20 long for your precepts;
# [ver. 149, 156] in your righteousness give me life!
Waw
41Let your #ver. 77; [Ps. 106:4] steadfast love come to me, O Lord,
your salvation #ver. 58, 65, 76, 116, 170according to your promise;
42then #Prov. 27:11 shall I have an answer for him #[See ver. 39 above]who taunts me,
for I trust in your word.
43And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
for my #ver. 49, 74, 81, 114, 147; [Ps. 31:24]hope is in your rules.
44I will keep your law continually,
forever and ever,
45and I shall walk #Prov. 4:12 in a wide place,
for I have #ver. 94, 155sought your precepts.
46I will also speak of your testimonies #[Matt. 10:18; Acts 26:1, 2]before kings
and shall not be put to shame,
47for I #ver. 16find my delight in your commandments,
which I love.
48I will #See Ps. 28:2 lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love,
and I will #ver. 13meditate on your statutes.
Zayin
49Remember #ver. 41, 42, 43 your word to your servant,
in which you have made me #ver. 43hope.
50This is #[Rom. 15:4] my comfort in my affliction,
that your promise #ver. 25; See Ps. 71:20gives me life.
51 # ver. 69, 78, 85, 122; Jer. 20:7; [Ps. 42:3; 123:4] The insolent utterly deride me,
but I do not #ver. 157; Ps. 44:18; Job 23:11turn away from your law.
52When I think of your rules from of old,
I take comfort, O Lord.
53 # [Neh. 13:25] Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked,
who forsake your law.
54Your statutes have been my songs
in the house of my #See Ps. 39:12sojourning.
55I #See Ps. 42:8remember your name in the night, O Lord,
and keep your law.
56This blessing has fallen to me,
that #ver. 22, 69, 100I have kept your precepts.
Heth
57 # See Ps. 16:5 The Lord is my portion;
I promise to keep your words.
58I #Ps. 45:12 entreat your favor with all my heart;
be gracious to me #ver. 41according to your promise.
59When I #[Luke 15:17]think on my ways,
I turn my feet to your testimonies;
60I hasten and do not delay
to keep your commandments.
61Though #ver. 110 the cords of the wicked ensnare me,
I do not #ver. 83forget your law.
62At #[Acts 16:25] midnight I rise to praise you,
because of your #ver. 7righteous rules.
63 # [Ps. 101:6] I am a companion of all who fear you,
of those who keep your precepts.
64 #
Ps. 33:5 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
# ver. 12 teach me your statutes!
Teth
65You have dealt well with your servant,
O Lord, #[ver. 41]according to your word.
66Teach me #Phil. 1:9; [James 1:5]good judgment and knowledge,
for I believe in your commandments.
67 # ver. 71, 75; Jer. 31:18, 19; See Heb. 12:5-11 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I keep your word.
68 #
Ps. 106:1 You are good and do good;
# ver. 12 teach me your statutes.
69 # ver. 51 The insolent #Job 13:4; [Ps. 109:2] smear me with lies,
but with my whole heart I #ver. 56keep your precepts;
70their heart is unfeeling #Isa. 6:10; See Ps. 17:10 like fat,
but I #ver. 16delight in your law.
71It is #[ver. 67]good for me that I was afflicted,
that I might learn your statutes.
72 # ver. 127; Ps. 19:10; Prov. 8:10 The law of your mouth is better to me
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.
Yodh
73 #
Job 10:8; See Ps. 95:6; Job 31:15 Your hands have made and fashioned me;
# ver. 27 give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
74Those who fear you shall see me and #Ps. 34:2; 35:27; 107:42 rejoice,
because I have #ver. 43; Ps. 130:5hoped in your word.
75I know, O Lord, that your rules are #ver. 138 righteous,
and that in #Ps. 33:4; See ver. 67faithfulness you have afflicted me.
76Let your steadfast love comfort me
according to your promise to your servant.
77Let your #ver. 41 mercy come to me, that I may live;
for your law is my #ver. 24, 47, 174delight.
78Let #See ver. 51 the insolent be put to #Ps. 25:3 shame,
because they have #ver. 86 wronged me with falsehood;
as for me, I will #ver. 15, 23meditate on your precepts.
79Let those who fear you #[Jer. 15:19]turn to me,
that they may know your testimonies.
80May my heart be #ver. 1 blameless in your statutes,
# ver. 6 that I may not be put to shame!
Kaph
81My soul #See Ps. 84:2 longs for your salvation;
I #ver. 74, 114hope in your word.
82My #See Ps. 69:3 eyes long for your promise;
I ask, #[Ps. 101:2]“When will you comfort me?”
83For I have #[Job 30:30] become like a #[Matt. 9:17; Mark 2:22]wineskin in the smoke,
yet I have not forgotten your statutes.
84 # [Ps. 39:4] How long must your servant endure?#119:84 Hebrew How many are the days of your servant?
#
Rev. 6:10; [Zech. 1:12] When will you judge those who persecute me?
85 # ver. 51 The insolent have #See Ps. 7:15dug pitfalls for me;
they do not live according to your law.
86All your commandments are #ver. 138 sure;
they persecute me #ver. 78; Ps. 35:19 with falsehood; #Ps. 109:26help me!
87They have almost made an end of me on earth,
but I have not forsaken your precepts.
88In your steadfast love #ver. 25; See Ps. 71:20give me life,
that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.
Lamedh
89Forever, O Lord, your #ver. 152; [Matt. 24:35; 1 Pet. 1:25]; [Jer. 31:35-37]word
is firmly fixed in the heavens.
90Your #See Ps. 36:5 faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have #[Ps. 148:6] established the earth, and it #Eccles. 1:4stands fast.
91By your #Jer. 33:25appointment they stand this day,
for all things are your servants.
92If your law had not been my #ver. 77delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.
93I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have #ver. 25; See Ps. 71:20given me life.
94I am yours; save me,
# ver. 45 for I have sought your precepts.
95The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,
but I consider your testimonies.
96I have seen a limit to all perfection,
but your commandment is exceedingly #[Ps. 18:19]broad.
Mem
97Oh how #ver. 113, 163, 165; [Ps. 1:2] I love your law!
It is my #ver. 15meditation all the day.
98Your commandment makes me #[Deut. 4:6]wiser than my enemies,
for it is ever with me.
99I have more understanding than all my teachers,
for #[2 Tim. 3:15]your testimonies are my meditation.
100I understand more than #See Job 32:7-9 the aged,#119:100 Or the elders
for I #ver. 56, 69keep your precepts.
101I #Prov. 1:15hold back my feet from every evil way,
in order to keep your word.
102I do not turn aside from your rules,
for you have taught me.
103How #Ps. 19:10sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104Through your precepts I get understanding;
therefore #ver. 128I hate every false way.
Nun
105 #
Prov. 6:23
Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light to my path.
106I have #Neh. 10:29 sworn an oath and confirmed it,
to keep your #ver. 7righteous rules.
107I am severely #[ver. 25, 50] afflicted;
# ver. 88; See Ps. 71:20 give me life, O Lord, according to your word!
108Accept #[Hos. 14:2] my freewill offerings of praise, O Lord,
and #ver. 12teach me your rules.
109I hold my life #See Judg. 12:3 in my hand continually,
but I do not #ver. 83forget your law.
110The wicked have laid #See Ps. 91:3 a snare for me,
but #ver. 10I do not stray from your precepts.
111Your testimonies are #Deut. 33:4 my heritage forever,
for they are #ver. 14, 162the joy of my heart.
112I #ver. 36 incline my heart to perform your statutes
forever, #See ver. 33to the end.#119:112 Or statutes; the reward is eternal
Samekh
113I hate #[1 Kgs. 18:21; James 1:8; 4:8] the double-minded,
but I love #ver. 97your law.
114You are my #See Ps. 32:7 hiding place and my #See Ps. 3:3 shield;
I #ver. 74hope in your word.
115 # See Ps. 6:8 Depart from me, you evildoers,
that I may #[ver. 22]keep the commandments of my God.
116Uphold me #ver. 41 according to your promise, that I may live,
and let me not be #ver. 31; See Ps. 25:2 put to shame in my #Ps. 146:5hope!
117 # [Ps. 20:2] Hold me up, that I may be safe
and have regard for your statutes continually!
118You #Lam. 1:15 spurn all who #ver. 10, 21, 110go astray from your statutes,
for their cunning is in vain.
119All the wicked of the earth you discard like #Isa. 1:25; [Ezek. 22:18; Mal. 3:2, 3] dross,
therefore #ver. 97I love your testimonies.
120My flesh #[Job 4:14; Hab. 3:16]trembles for fear of you,
and I am afraid of your judgments.
Ayin
121I have done what is just and right;
do not leave me to my oppressors.
122Give your servant #See Job 17:3 a pledge of good;
let not #ver. 51the insolent oppress me.
123My #ver. 82eyes long for your salvation
and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
124Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
and #ver. 12teach me your statutes.
125I am your #See Ps. 116:16 servant; #ver. 27give me understanding,
that I may know your testimonies!
126It is time for the Lord to act,
for your law has been broken.
127Therefore I #ver. 72; Ps. 19:10love your commandments
above gold, above fine gold.
128Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right;
I hate every #ver. 104false way.
Pe
129Your testimonies are #ver. 18, 27 wonderful;
therefore my soul #ver. 22keeps them.
130The unfolding of your words gives light;
it imparts #See Ps. 19:7understanding to the simple.
131I #Ps. 81:10; Job 29:23 open my mouth and #Ps. 42:1 pant,
because I #ver. 20long for your commandments.
132 # See Ps. 25:16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
as is your way with those who love your name.
133 # [Ps. 17:5] Keep steady my steps according to your promise,
and let no iniquity #Ps. 19:13get dominion over me.
134 # [Luke 1:74] Redeem me from man’s oppression,
that I may keep your precepts.
135 # See Ps. 4:6 Make your face shine upon your servant,
and #ver. 12teach me your statutes.
136My eyes #Jer. 9:1, 18; 14:17; Lam. 3:48; [Ezek. 9:4; Phil. 3:18] shed streams of tears,
because people #ver. 158do not keep your law.
Tsadhe
137 # See Ps. 116:5 Righteous are you, O Lord,
and right are your rules.
138You have appointed your testimonies in #ver. 75, 172; See Ps. 19:7-9 righteousness
and in all #ver. 86faithfulness.
139My #See Ps. 69:9zeal consumes me,
because my foes forget your words.
140Your promise is well #See Ps. 12:6 tried,
and your servant #ver. 97loves it.
141I am small and despised,
yet I do not #ver. 83forget your precepts.
142Your righteousness is righteous forever,
and your law is #ver. 151, 160; John 17:17; [Ps. 19:9]true.
143Trouble and anguish have found me out,
but your commandments are my #ver. 24delight.
144Your testimonies are righteous forever;
# ver. 27 give me understanding that I may #ver. 17live.
Qoph
145With my #ver. 2, 10 whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord!
I will #ver. 22, 33keep your statutes.
146I call to you; save me,
that I may observe your testimonies.
147I rise before #See Ps. 5:3 dawn and cry for help;
I #ver. 74hope in your words.
148My eyes are awake before #See Ps. 42:8the watches of the night,
that I may meditate on your promise.
149Hear my voice according to your steadfast love;
O Lord, #ver. 156; [ver. 40] according to your justice #ver. 25; See Ps. 71:20give me life.
150They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose;
they are far from your law.
151But #See Ps. 145:18 you are near, O Lord,
and all your commandments are #See ver. 142true.
152Long have I known from your testimonies
that you have #ver. 89, 160; [Matt. 5:18]founded them forever.
Resh
153Look on my #Job 36:15 affliction and deliver me,
for #ver. 83I do not forget your law.
154 #
Ps. 35:1 Plead my cause and redeem me;
# ver. 25 give me life according to your promise!
155 #
Job 5:4 Salvation is far from the wicked,
# [ver. 150] for they do not seek your statutes.
156 #
2 Sam. 24:14 Great is your mercy, O Lord;
# [See ver. 154 above] give me life according to your rules.
157 #
Ps. 3:1, 2 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,
but I do not #See ver. 51swerve from your testimonies.
158I look at #[Jer. 3:20] the faithless with #Ps. 139:21; [ver. 136]disgust,
because they do not keep your commands.
159Consider how I #ver. 97 love your precepts!
# [See ver. 154 above] Give me life according to your steadfast love.
160 #
Ps. 139:17 The sum of your word is #[ver. 142, 172] truth,
and every one of your #ver. 7righteous rules endures forever.
Sin and Shin
161 # ver. 23; [1 Sam. 24:11; 26:18] Princes persecute me #See Ps. 69:4 without cause,
but my heart #[Ps. 2:11]stands in awe of your words.
162I #[See ver. 161 above] rejoice at your word
like one who #1 Sam. 30:16; Isa. 9:3; [Matt. 13:44]finds great spoil.
163I hate and abhor falsehood,
but I love #ver. 97your law.
164Seven times a day I praise you
for your #[See ver. 160 above]righteous rules.
165Great #Ps. 37:11, 37; [Prov. 3:2] peace have those who love your law;
#
Prov. 3:23; 1 John 2:10; [Matt. 13:41] nothing can make them stumble.
166I #ver. 174; Gen. 49:18hope for your salvation, O Lord,
and I do your commandments.
167My soul keeps your testimonies;
I #[See ver. 163 above]love them exceedingly.
168I keep your precepts and testimonies,
#
Ps. 139:3; Prov. 5:21 for all my ways are before you.
Taw
169Let my #[ver. 145] cry come before you, O Lord;
# See ver. 34 give me understanding #ver. 65according to your word!
170Let my plea come before you;
# ver. 41 deliver me according to your word.
171My lips will #Ps. 145:7 pour forth praise,
for you #ver. 12teach me your statutes.
172My tongue will sing of your word,
for #[ver. 160]all your commandments are right.
173Let your hand be ready to help me,
for I have #Josh. 24:22; [Prov. 1:29]chosen your precepts.
174I #ver. 20 long for your salvation, O Lord,
and your law is my #ver. 24delight.
175Let my soul live and praise you,
and let your rules help me.
176I have #Isa. 53:6; 1 Pet. 2:25; [Matt. 18:12; Luke 15:4] gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant,
for I do not #ver. 83forget your commandments.
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Psalms 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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