BOOK I

Psalms 1–41

Psalm 1

Blessed is the one(A)
    who does not walk(B) in step with the wicked(C)
or stand in the way(D) that sinners take(E)
    or sit(F) in the company of mockers,(G)
but whose delight(H) is in the law of the Lord,(I)
    and who meditates(J) on his law day and night.
That person is like a tree(K) planted by streams(L) of water,(M)
    which yields its fruit(N) in season
and whose leaf(O) does not wither—
    whatever they do prospers.(P)

Not so the wicked!
    They are like chaff(Q)
    that the wind blows away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand(R) in the judgment,(S)
    nor sinners in the assembly(T) of the righteous.

For the Lord watches over(U) the way of the righteous,
    but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.(V)

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Psalm 119[a]

א Aleph

Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,(A)
    who walk(B) according to the law of the Lord.(C)
Blessed(D) are those who keep his statutes(E)
    and seek him(F) with all their heart—(G)
they do no wrong(H)
    but follow his ways.(I)
You have laid down precepts(J)
    that are to be fully obeyed.(K)
Oh, that my ways were steadfast
    in obeying your decrees!(L)
Then I would not be put to shame(M)
    when I consider all your commands.(N)
I will praise you with an upright heart
    as I learn your righteous laws.(O)
I will obey your decrees;
    do not utterly forsake me.(P)

ב Beth

How can a young person stay on the path of purity?(Q)
    By living according to your word.(R)
10 I seek you with all my heart;(S)
    do not let me stray from your commands.(T)
11 I have hidden your word in my heart(U)
    that I might not sin(V) against you.
12 Praise be(W) to you, Lord;
    teach me(X) your decrees.(Y)
13 With my lips I recount
    all the laws that come from your mouth.(Z)
14 I rejoice in following your statutes(AA)
    as one rejoices in great riches.
15 I meditate on your precepts(AB)
    and consider your ways.
16 I delight(AC) in your decrees;
    I will not neglect your word.

ג Gimel

17 Be good to your servant(AD) while I live,
    that I may obey your word.(AE)
18 Open my eyes that I may see
    wonderful things in your law.
19 I am a stranger on earth;(AF)
    do not hide your commands from me.
20 My soul is consumed(AG) with longing
    for your laws(AH) at all times.
21 You rebuke the arrogant,(AI) who are accursed,(AJ)
    those who stray(AK) from your commands.
22 Remove from me their scorn(AL) and contempt,
    for I keep your statutes.(AM)
23 Though rulers sit together and slander me,
    your servant will meditate on your decrees.
24 Your statutes are my delight;
    they are my counselors.

ד Daleth

25 I am laid low in the dust;(AN)
    preserve my life(AO) according to your word.(AP)
26 I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;
    teach me your decrees.(AQ)
27 Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,
    that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.(AR)
28 My soul is weary with sorrow;(AS)
    strengthen me(AT) according to your word.(AU)
29 Keep me from deceitful ways;(AV)
    be gracious to me(AW) and teach me your law.
30 I have chosen(AX) the way of faithfulness;(AY)
    I have set my heart(AZ) on your laws.
31 I hold fast(BA) to your statutes, Lord;
    do not let me be put to shame.
32 I run in the path of your commands,
    for you have broadened my understanding.

ה He

33 Teach me,(BB) Lord, the way of your decrees,
    that I may follow it to the end.[b]
34 Give me understanding,(BC) so that I may keep your law(BD)
    and obey it with all my heart.(BE)
35 Direct me(BF) in the path of your commands,(BG)
    for there I find delight.(BH)
36 Turn my heart(BI) toward your statutes
    and not toward selfish gain.(BJ)
37 Turn my eyes away from worthless things;
    preserve my life(BK) according to your word.[c](BL)
38 Fulfill your promise(BM) to your servant,
    so that you may be feared.
39 Take away the disgrace(BN) I dread,
    for your laws are good.
40 How I long(BO) for your precepts!
    In your righteousness preserve my life.(BP)

ו Waw

41 May your unfailing love(BQ) come to me, Lord,
    your salvation, according to your promise;(BR)
42 then I can answer(BS) anyone who taunts me,(BT)
    for I trust in your word.
43 Never take your word of truth from my mouth,(BU)
    for I have put my hope(BV) in your laws.
44 I will always obey your law,(BW)
    for ever and ever.
45 I will walk about in freedom,
    for I have sought out your precepts.(BX)
46 I will speak of your statutes before kings(BY)
    and will not be put to shame,(BZ)
47 for I delight(CA) in your commands
    because I love them.(CB)
48 I reach out for your commands, which I love,
    that I may meditate(CC) on your decrees.

ז Zayin

49 Remember your word(CD) to your servant,
    for you have given me hope.(CE)
50 My comfort in my suffering is this:
    Your promise preserves my life.(CF)
51 The arrogant mock me(CG) unmercifully,
    but I do not turn(CH) from your law.
52 I remember,(CI) Lord, your ancient laws,
    and I find comfort in them.
53 Indignation grips me(CJ) because of the wicked,
    who have forsaken your law.(CK)
54 Your decrees are the theme of my song(CL)
    wherever I lodge.
55 In the night, Lord, I remember(CM) your name,
    that I may keep your law.(CN)
56 This has been my practice:
    I obey your precepts.(CO)

ח Heth

57 You are my portion,(CP) Lord;
    I have promised to obey your words.(CQ)
58 I have sought(CR) your face with all my heart;
    be gracious to me(CS) according to your promise.(CT)
59 I have considered my ways(CU)
    and have turned my steps to your statutes.
60 I will hasten and not delay
    to obey your commands.(CV)
61 Though the wicked bind me with ropes,
    I will not forget(CW) your law.
62 At midnight(CX) I rise to give you thanks
    for your righteous laws.(CY)
63 I am a friend to all who fear you,(CZ)
    to all who follow your precepts.(DA)
64 The earth is filled with your love,(DB) Lord;
    teach me your decrees.(DC)

ט Teth

65 Do good(DD) to your servant
    according to your word,(DE) Lord.
66 Teach me knowledge(DF) and good judgment,
    for I trust your commands.
67 Before I was afflicted(DG) I went astray,(DH)
    but now I obey your word.(DI)
68 You are good,(DJ) and what you do is good;
    teach me your decrees.(DK)
69 Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies,(DL)
    I keep your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are callous(DM) and unfeeling,
    but I delight in your law.
71 It was good for me to be afflicted(DN)
    so that I might learn your decrees.
72 The law from your mouth is more precious to me
    than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.(DO)

י Yodh

73 Your hands made me(DP) and formed me;
    give me understanding to learn your commands.
74 May those who fear you rejoice(DQ) when they see me,
    for I have put my hope in your word.(DR)
75 I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous,(DS)
    and that in faithfulness(DT) you have afflicted me.
76 May your unfailing love(DU) be my comfort,
    according to your promise(DV) to your servant.
77 Let your compassion(DW) come to me that I may live,
    for your law is my delight.(DX)
78 May the arrogant(DY) be put to shame for wronging me without cause;(DZ)
    but I will meditate on your precepts.
79 May those who fear you turn to me,
    those who understand your statutes.(EA)
80 May I wholeheartedly follow(EB) your decrees,(EC)
    that I may not be put to shame.(ED)

כ Kaph

81 My soul faints(EE) with longing for your salvation,(EF)
    but I have put my hope(EG) in your word.
82 My eyes fail,(EH) looking for your promise;(EI)
    I say, “When will you comfort me?”
83 Though I am like a wineskin in the smoke,
    I do not forget(EJ) your decrees.
84 How long(EK) must your servant wait?
    When will you punish my persecutors?(EL)
85 The arrogant(EM) dig pits(EN) to trap me,
    contrary to your law.
86 All your commands are trustworthy;(EO)
    help me,(EP) for I am being persecuted(EQ) without cause.(ER)
87 They almost wiped me from the earth,
    but I have not forsaken(ES) your precepts.
88 In your unfailing love(ET) preserve my life,(EU)
    that I may obey the statutes(EV) of your mouth.

ל Lamedh

89 Your word, Lord, is eternal;(EW)
    it stands firm in the heavens.
90 Your faithfulness(EX) continues through all generations;(EY)
    you established the earth, and it endures.(EZ)
91 Your laws endure(FA) to this day,
    for all things serve you.(FB)
92 If your law had not been my delight,(FC)
    I would have perished in my affliction.(FD)
93 I will never forget(FE) your precepts,
    for by them you have preserved my life.(FF)
94 Save me,(FG) for I am yours;
    I have sought out your precepts.(FH)
95 The wicked are waiting to destroy me,(FI)
    but I will ponder your statutes.(FJ)
96 To all perfection I see a limit,
    but your commands are boundless.(FK)

מ Mem

97 Oh, how I love your law!(FL)
    I meditate(FM) on it all day long.
98 Your commands are always with me
    and make me wiser(FN) than my enemies.
99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
    for I meditate on your statutes.(FO)
100 I have more understanding than the elders,
    for I obey your precepts.(FP)
101 I have kept my feet(FQ) from every evil path
    so that I might obey your word.(FR)
102 I have not departed from your laws,(FS)
    for you yourself have taught(FT) me.
103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
    sweeter than honey(FU) to my mouth!(FV)
104 I gain understanding(FW) from your precepts;
    therefore I hate every wrong path.(FX)

נ Nun

105 Your word is a lamp(FY) for my feet,
    a light(FZ) on my path.
106 I have taken an oath(GA) and confirmed it,
    that I will follow your righteous laws.(GB)
107 I have suffered much;
    preserve my life,(GC) Lord, according to your word.
108 Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth,(GD)
    and teach me your laws.(GE)
109 Though I constantly take my life in my hands,(GF)
    I will not forget(GG) your law.
110 The wicked have set a snare(GH) for me,
    but I have not strayed(GI) from your precepts.
111 Your statutes are my heritage forever;
    they are the joy of my heart.(GJ)
112 My heart is set(GK) on keeping your decrees
    to the very end.[d](GL)

ס Samekh

113 I hate double-minded people,(GM)
    but I love your law.(GN)
114 You are my refuge and my shield;(GO)
    I have put my hope(GP) in your word.
115 Away from me,(GQ) you evildoers,
    that I may keep the commands of my God!
116 Sustain me,(GR) my God, according to your promise,(GS) and I will live;
    do not let my hopes be dashed.(GT)
117 Uphold me,(GU) and I will be delivered;(GV)
    I will always have regard for your decrees.(GW)
118 You reject all who stray(GX) from your decrees,
    for their delusions come to nothing.
119 All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross;(GY)
    therefore I love your statutes.(GZ)
120 My flesh trembles(HA) in fear of you;(HB)
    I stand in awe(HC) of your laws.

ע Ayin

121 I have done what is righteous and just;(HD)
    do not leave me to my oppressors.
122 Ensure your servant’s well-being;(HE)
    do not let the arrogant oppress me.(HF)
123 My eyes fail,(HG) looking for your salvation,(HH)
    looking for your righteous promise.(HI)
124 Deal with your servant according to your love(HJ)
    and teach me your decrees.(HK)
125 I am your servant;(HL) give me discernment
    that I may understand your statutes.(HM)
126 It is time for you to act, Lord;
    your law is being broken.(HN)
127 Because I love your commands(HO)
    more than gold,(HP) more than pure gold,(HQ)
128 and because I consider all your precepts right,(HR)
    I hate every wrong path.(HS)

פ Pe

129 Your statutes are wonderful;(HT)
    therefore I obey them.(HU)
130 The unfolding of your words gives light;(HV)
    it gives understanding to the simple.(HW)
131 I open my mouth and pant,(HX)
    longing for your commands.(HY)
132 Turn to me(HZ) and have mercy(IA) on me,
    as you always do to those who love your name.(IB)
133 Direct my footsteps according to your word;(IC)
    let no sin rule(ID) over me.
134 Redeem me from human oppression,(IE)
    that I may obey your precepts.(IF)
135 Make your face shine(IG) on your servant
    and teach me your decrees.(IH)
136 Streams of tears(II) flow from my eyes,
    for your law is not obeyed.(IJ)

צ Tsadhe

137 You are righteous,(IK) Lord,
    and your laws are right.(IL)
138 The statutes you have laid down are righteous;(IM)
    they are fully trustworthy.(IN)
139 My zeal wears me out,(IO)
    for my enemies ignore your words.
140 Your promises(IP) have been thoroughly tested,(IQ)
    and your servant loves them.(IR)
141 Though I am lowly and despised,(IS)
    I do not forget your precepts.(IT)
142 Your righteousness is everlasting
    and your law is true.(IU)
143 Trouble and distress have come upon me,
    but your commands give me delight.(IV)
144 Your statutes are always righteous;
    give me understanding(IW) that I may live.

ק Qoph

145 I call with all my heart;(IX) answer me, Lord,
    and I will obey your decrees.(IY)
146 I call out to you; save me(IZ)
    and I will keep your statutes.
147 I rise before dawn(JA) and cry for help;
    I have put my hope in your word.
148 My eyes stay open through the watches of the night,(JB)
    that I may meditate on your promises.
149 Hear my voice(JC) in accordance with your love;(JD)
    preserve my life,(JE) Lord, according to your laws.
150 Those who devise wicked schemes(JF) are near,
    but they are far from your law.
151 Yet you are near,(JG) Lord,
    and all your commands are true.(JH)
152 Long ago I learned from your statutes(JI)
    that you established them to last forever.(JJ)

ר Resh

153 Look on my suffering(JK) and deliver me,(JL)
    for I have not forgotten(JM) your law.
154 Defend my cause(JN) and redeem me;(JO)
    preserve my life(JP) according to your promise.(JQ)
155 Salvation is far from the wicked,
    for they do not seek out(JR) your decrees.
156 Your compassion, Lord, is great;(JS)
    preserve my life(JT) according to your laws.(JU)
157 Many are the foes who persecute me,(JV)
    but I have not turned(JW) from your statutes.
158 I look on the faithless with loathing,(JX)
    for they do not obey your word.(JY)
159 See how I love your precepts;
    preserve my life,(JZ) Lord, in accordance with your love.
160 All your words are true;
    all your righteous laws are eternal.(KA)

ש Sin and Shin

161 Rulers persecute me(KB) without cause,
    but my heart trembles(KC) at your word.
162 I rejoice(KD) in your promise
    like one who finds great spoil.(KE)
163 I hate and detest(KF) falsehood
    but I love your law.(KG)
164 Seven times a day I praise you
    for your righteous laws.(KH)
165 Great peace(KI) have those who love your law,
    and nothing can make them stumble.(KJ)
166 I wait for your salvation,(KK) Lord,
    and I follow your commands.
167 I obey your statutes,
    for I love them(KL) greatly.
168 I obey your precepts(KM) and your statutes,(KN)
    for all my ways are known(KO) to you.

ת Taw

169 May my cry come(KP) before you, Lord;
    give me understanding(KQ) according to your word.(KR)
170 May my supplication come(KS) before you;
    deliver me(KT) according to your promise.(KU)
171 May my lips overflow with praise,(KV)
    for you teach me(KW) your decrees.
172 May my tongue sing(KX) of your word,
    for all your commands are righteous.(KY)
173 May your hand be ready to help(KZ) me,
    for I have chosen(LA) your precepts.
174 I long for your salvation,(LB) Lord,
    and your law gives me delight.(LC)
175 Let me live(LD) that I may praise you,
    and may your laws sustain me.
176 I have strayed like a lost sheep.(LE)
    Seek your servant,
    for I have not forgotten(LF) your commands.

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 119:1 This psalm is an acrostic poem, the stanzas of which begin with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet; moreover, the verses of each stanza begin with the same letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
  2. Psalm 119:33 Or follow it for its reward
  3. Psalm 119:37 Two manuscripts of the Masoretic Text and Dead Sea Scrolls; most manuscripts of the Masoretic Text life in your way
  4. Psalm 119:112 Or decrees / for their enduring reward

119 Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord.

Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.

They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways.

Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.

O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!

Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.

I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments.

I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly.

Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

10 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.

11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

12 Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy statutes.

13 With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth.

14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches.

15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.

16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

17 Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word.

18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.

19 I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me.

20 My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times.

21 Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments.

22 Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies.

23 Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.

24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counselors.

25 My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word.

26 I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes.

27 Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.

28 My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word.

29 Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously.

30 I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me.

31 I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O Lord, put me not to shame.

32 I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.

34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.

35 Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.

36 Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.

37 Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.

38 Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.

39 Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good.

40 Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness.

41 Let thy mercies come also unto me, O Lord, even thy salvation, according to thy word.

42 So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word.

43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments.

44 So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever.

45 And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts.

46 I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.

47 And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.

48 My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

49 Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.

50 This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

51 The proud have had me greatly in derision: yet have I not declined from thy law.

52 I remembered thy judgments of old, O Lord; and have comforted myself.

53 Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law.

54 Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage.

55 I have remembered thy name, O Lord, in the night, and have kept thy law.

56 This I had, because I kept thy precepts.

57 Thou art my portion, O Lord: I have said that I would keep thy words.

58 I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word.

59 I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies.

60 I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy commandments.

61 The bands of the wicked have robbed me: but I have not forgotten thy law.

62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.

63 I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.

64 The earth, O Lord, is full of thy mercy: teach me thy statutes.

65 Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O Lord, according unto thy word.

66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments.

67 Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word.

68 Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes.

69 The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart.

70 Their heart is as fat as grease; but I delight in thy law.

71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.

72 The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.

73 Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments.

74 They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word.

75 I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.

76 Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant.

77 Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight.

78 Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts.

79 Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies.

80 Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed.

81 My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word.

82 Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me?

83 For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget thy statutes.

84 How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me?

85 The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law.

86 All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.

87 They had almost consumed me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts.

88 Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth.

89 For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.

90 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

91 They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants.

92 Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.

93 I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me.

94 I am thine, save me: for I have sought thy precepts.

95 The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies.

96 I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad.

97 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.

98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.

99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.

100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.

101 I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word.

102 I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me.

103 How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.

105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

106 I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.

107 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O Lord, according unto thy word.

108 Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord, and teach me thy judgments.

109 My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.

110 The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts.

111 Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.

112 I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.

113 I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.

114 Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

115 Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.

116 Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.

117 Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.

118 Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.

119 Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.

120 My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.

121 I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors.

122 Be surety for thy servant for good: let not the proud oppress me.

123 Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness.

124 Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes.

125 I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies.

126 It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law.

127 Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.

128 Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.

129 Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.

130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

131 I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments.

132 Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me, as thou usest to do unto those that love thy name.

133 Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

134 Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts.

135 Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes.

136 Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law.

137 Righteous art thou, O Lord, and upright are thy judgments.

138 Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful.

139 My zeal hath consumed me, because mine enemies have forgotten thy words.

140 Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it.

141 I am small and despised: yet do not I forget thy precepts.

142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.

143 Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me: yet thy commandments are my delights.

144 The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall live.

145 I cried with my whole heart; hear me, O Lord: I will keep thy statutes.

146 I cried unto thee; save me, and I shall keep thy testimonies.

147 I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word.

148 Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word.

149 Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O Lord, quicken me according to thy judgment.

150 They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.

151 Thou art near, O Lord; and all thy commandments are truth.

152 Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever.

153 Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law.

154 Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word.

155 Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek not thy statutes.

156 Great are thy tender mercies, O Lord: quicken me according to thy judgments.

157 Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies.

158 I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word.

159 Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O Lord, according to thy lovingkindness.

160 Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.

162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.

163 I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love.

164 Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.

165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.

166 Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments.

167 My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly.

168 I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee.

169 Let my cry come near before thee, O Lord: give me understanding according to thy word.

170 Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word.

171 My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes.

172 My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.

173 Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts.

174 I have longed for thy salvation, O Lord; and thy law is my delight.

175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me.

176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.

24 But let justice(A) roll on like a river,
    righteousness(B) like a never-failing stream!(C)

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24 But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.

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Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount

Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.

The Beatitudes(A)

He said:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.(B)
Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.(C)
Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.(D)
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they will be filled.(E)
Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy.(F)
Blessed are the pure in heart,(G)
    for they will see God.(H)
Blessed are the peacemakers,(I)
    for they will be called children of God.(J)
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,(K)
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.(L)

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you,(M) persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.(N) 12 Rejoice and be glad,(O) because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.(P)

Salt and Light

13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.(Q)

14 “You are the light of the world.(R) A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.(S) 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others,(T) that they may see your good deeds(U) and glorify(V) your Father in heaven.

The Fulfillment of the Law

17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.(W) 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.(X) 19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands(Y) and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.(Z)

Murder(AA)

21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,[a](AB) and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry(AC) with a brother or sister[b][c] will be subject to judgment.(AD) Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’[d] is answerable to the court.(AE) And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.(AF)

23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.

25 “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.

Adultery

27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’[e](AG) 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.(AH) 29 If your right eye causes you to stumble,(AI) gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble,(AJ) cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.

Divorce

31 “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’[f](AK) 32 But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.(AL)

Oaths

33 “Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath,(AM) but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’(AN) 34 But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all:(AO) either by heaven, for it is God’s throne;(AP) 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King.(AQ) 36 And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. 37 All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’;(AR) anything beyond this comes from the evil one.[g](AS)

Eye for Eye

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’[h](AT) 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.(AU) 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.(AV)

Love for Enemies

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor[i](AW) and hate your enemy.’(AX) 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,(AY) 45 that you may be children(AZ) of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.(BA) 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?(BB) Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.(BC)

Giving to the Needy

“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.(BD) If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.(BE)

Prayer(BF)

“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing(BG) in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father,(BH) who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling(BI) like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.(BJ) Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need(BK) before you ask him.

“This, then, is how you should pray:

“‘Our Father(BL) in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10 your kingdom(BM) come,
your will be done,(BN)
    on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us today our daily bread.(BO)
12 And forgive us our debts,
    as we also have forgiven our debtors.(BP)
13 And lead us not into temptation,[j](BQ)
    but deliver us from the evil one.[k](BR)

14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.(BS) 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.(BT)

Fasting

16 “When you fast,(BU) do not look somber(BV) as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.(BW)

Treasures in Heaven(BX)

19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth,(BY) where moths and vermin destroy,(BZ) and where thieves break in and steal.

Footnotes

  1. Matthew 5:21 Exodus 20:13
  2. Matthew 5:22 The Greek word for brother or sister (adelphos) refers here to a fellow disciple, whether man or woman; also in verse 23.
  3. Matthew 5:22 Some manuscripts brother or sister without cause
  4. Matthew 5:22 An Aramaic term of contempt
  5. Matthew 5:27 Exodus 20:14
  6. Matthew 5:31 Deut. 24:1
  7. Matthew 5:37 Or from evil
  8. Matthew 5:38 Exodus 21:24; Lev. 24:20; Deut. 19:21
  9. Matthew 5:43 Lev. 19:18
  10. Matthew 6:13 The Greek for temptation can also mean testing.
  11. Matthew 6:13 Or from evil; some late manuscripts one, / for yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:

And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

21 Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:

22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;

24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.

26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.

27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:

28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

31 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:

32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

33 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:

34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:

35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.

36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.

37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.

38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:

39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.

41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.

42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.

44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?

47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?

48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.

Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:

That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.

And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;

18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.

19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.

23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!

24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?

28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.