Psalm 119

English Standard Version

Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet

Aleph

119 ^[a] Blessed are those whose ^(A)way is blameless,
    who ^(B)walk in the law of the Lord!
²Blessed are those who ^(C)keep his ^(D)testimonies,
    who ^(E)seek him with their whole heart,
³who also ^(F)do no wrong,
    but walk in his ways!
⁴You have commanded your ^(G)precepts
    to be kept diligently.
⁵Oh that my ways may ^(H)be steadfast
    in keeping your statutes!
⁶^(I)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 ^(J)your righteous rules.^[b]
⁸I will keep your statutes;
    ^(K)do not utterly forsake me!

Beth

⁹How can ^(L)a young man keep his way pure?
    By guarding it according to your word.
¹⁰^(M)With my whole heart I seek you;
    let me not ^(N)wander from your commandments!
¹¹I have ^(O)stored up your word in my heart,
    that I might not sin against you.
¹²Blessed are you, O Lord;
    ^(P)teach me your statutes!
¹³With my lips I ^(Q)declare
    all the rules^[c] of your mouth.
¹⁴In the way of your testimonies I ^(R)delight
    as much as in all ^(S)riches.
¹⁵I will ^(T)meditate on your precepts
    and fix my eyes on your ^(U)ways.
¹⁶I will ^(V)delight in your statutes;
    I will not forget your word.

Gimel

¹⁷^(W)Deal bountifully with your servant,
    ^(X)that I may live and keep your word.
¹⁸Open my eyes, that I may behold
    wondrous things out of your law.
¹⁹I am ^(Y)a sojourner on the earth;
    ^(Z)hide not your commandments from me!
²⁰My soul is consumed with ^(AA)longing
    for your rules^[d] at all times.
²¹You rebuke ^(AB)the insolent, ^(AC)accursed ones,
    who ^(AD)wander from your commandments.
²²Take away from me ^(AE)scorn and contempt,
    ^(AF)for I have kept your testimonies.
²³Even though ^(AG)princes sit plotting against me,
    your servant will ^(AH)meditate on your statutes.
²⁴Your testimonies are my ^(AI)delight;
    they are my ^(AJ)counselors.

Daleth

²⁵^(AK)My soul clings to the dust;
    ^(AL)give me life ^(AM)according to your word!
²⁶When ^(AN)I told of my ways, you answered me;
    ^(AO)teach me your statutes!
²⁷^(AP)Make me understand the way of your precepts,
    and I will ^(AQ)meditate on your wondrous works.
²⁸^(AR)My soul melts away for sorrow;
    strengthen me according to your word!
²⁹Put false ways far from me
    and graciously ^(AS)teach me your law!
³⁰I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
    I ^(AT)set your rules before me.
³¹I cling to your testimonies, O Lord;
    ^(AU)let me not be put to shame!
³²I will run in the way of your commandments
    when you ^(AV)enlarge my heart!^[e]

He

³³^(AW)Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes;
    and I will keep it ^(AX)to the end.^[f]
³⁴^(AY)Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
    and observe it with my whole heart.
³⁵^(AZ)Lead me in the path of your commandments,
    for I ^(BA)delight in it.
³⁶^(BB)Incline my heart to your testimonies,
    and not to ^(BC)selfish gain!
³⁷^(BD)Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things;
    and ^(BE)give me life in your ways.
³⁸^(BF)Confirm to your servant your promise,
    ^(BG)that you may be feared.
³⁹Turn away the ^(BH)reproach that I dread,
    for your rules are good.
⁴⁰Behold, I ^(BI)long for your precepts;
    ^(BJ)in your righteousness give me life!

Waw

⁴¹Let your ^(BK)steadfast love come to me, O Lord,
    your salvation ^(BL)according to your promise;
⁴²then ^(BM)shall I have an answer for him ^(BN)who taunts me,
    for I trust in your word.
⁴³And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
    for my ^(BO)hope is in your rules.
⁴⁴I will keep your law continually,
    forever and ever,
⁴⁵and I shall walk ^(BP)in a wide place,
    for I have ^(BQ)sought your precepts.
⁴⁶I will also speak of your testimonies ^(BR)before kings
    and shall not be put to shame,
⁴⁷for I ^(BS)find my delight in your commandments,
    which I love.
⁴⁸I will ^(BT)lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love,
    and I will ^(BU)meditate on your statutes.

Zayin

⁴⁹Remember ^(BV)your word to your servant,
    in which you have made me ^(BW)hope.
⁵⁰This is ^(BX)my comfort in my affliction,
    that your promise ^(BY)gives me life.
⁵¹^(BZ)The insolent utterly deride me,
    but I do not ^(CA)turn away from your law.
⁵²When I think of your rules from of old,
    I take comfort, O Lord.
⁵³^(CB)Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked,
    who forsake your law.
⁵⁴Your statutes have been my songs
    in the house of my ^(CC)sojourning.
⁵⁵I ^(CD)remember your name in the night, O Lord,
    and keep your law.
⁵⁶This blessing has fallen to me,
    that ^(CE)I have kept your precepts.

Heth

⁵⁷^(CF)The Lord is my portion;
    I promise to keep your words.
⁵⁸I ^(CG)entreat your favor with all my heart;
    be gracious to me ^(CH)according to your promise.
⁵⁹When I ^(CI)think on my ways,
    I turn my feet to your testimonies;
⁶⁰I hasten and do not delay
    to keep your commandments.
⁶¹Though ^(CJ)the cords of the wicked ensnare me,
    I do not ^(CK)forget your law.
⁶²At ^(CL)midnight I rise to praise you,
    because of your ^(CM)righteous rules.
⁶³^(CN)I am a companion of all who fear you,
    of those who keep your precepts.
⁶⁴^(CO)The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
    ^(CP)teach me your statutes!

Teth

⁶⁵You have dealt well with your servant,
    O Lord, ^(CQ)according to your word.
⁶⁶Teach me ^(CR)good judgment and knowledge,
    for I believe in your commandments.
⁶⁷^(CS)Before I was afflicted I went astray,
    but now I keep your word.
⁶⁸^(CT)You are good and do good;
    ^(CU)teach me your statutes.
⁶⁹^(CV)The insolent ^(CW)smear me with lies,
    but with my whole heart I ^(CX)keep your precepts;
⁷⁰their heart is unfeeling ^(CY)like fat,
    but I ^(CZ)delight in your law.
⁷¹It is ^(DA)good for me that I was afflicted,
    that I might learn your statutes.
⁷²^(DB)The law of your mouth is better to me
    than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

Yodh

⁷³^(DC)Your hands have made and fashioned me;
    ^(DD)give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
⁷⁴Those who fear you shall see me and ^(DE)rejoice,
    because I have ^(DF)hoped in your word.
⁷⁵I know, O Lord, that your rules are ^(DG)righteous,
    and that in ^(DH)faithfulness you have afflicted me.
⁷⁶Let your steadfast love comfort me
    according to your promise to your servant.
⁷⁷Let your ^(DI)mercy come to me, that I may live;
    for your law is my ^(DJ)delight.
⁷⁸Let ^(DK)the insolent be put to ^(DL)shame,
    because they have ^(DM)wronged me with falsehood;
    as for me, I will ^(DN)meditate on your precepts.
⁷⁹Let those who fear you ^(DO)turn to me,
    that they may know your testimonies.
⁸⁰May my heart be ^(DP)blameless in your statutes,
    ^(DQ)that I may not be put to shame!

Kaph

⁸¹My soul ^(DR)longs for your salvation;
    I ^(DS)hope in your word.
⁸²My ^(DT)eyes long for your promise;
    I ask, ^(DU)“When will you comfort me?”
⁸³For I have ^(DV)become like a ^(DW)wineskin in the smoke,
    yet I have not forgotten your statutes.
⁸⁴^(DX)How long must your servant endure?^[g]
    ^(DY)When will you judge those who persecute me?
⁸⁵^(DZ)The insolent have ^(EA)dug pitfalls for me;
    they do not live according to your law.
⁸⁶All your commandments are ^(EB)sure;
    they persecute me ^(EC)with falsehood; ^(ED)help me!
⁸⁷They have almost made an end of me on earth,
    but I have not forsaken your precepts.
⁸⁸In your steadfast love ^(EE)give me life,
    that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.

Lamedh

⁸⁹Forever, O Lord, your ^(EF)word
    is firmly fixed in the heavens.
⁹⁰Your ^(EG)faithfulness endures to all generations;
    you have ^(EH)established the earth, and it ^(EI)stands fast.
⁹¹By your ^(EJ)appointment they stand this day,
    for all things are your servants.
⁹²If your law had not been my ^(EK)delight,
    I would have perished in my affliction.
⁹³I will never forget your precepts,
    for by them you have ^(EL)given me life.
⁹⁴I am yours; save me,
    ^(EM)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 ^(EN)broad.

Mem

⁹⁷Oh how ^(EO)I love your law!
    It is my ^(EP)meditation all the day.
⁹⁸Your commandment makes me ^(EQ)wiser than my enemies,
    for it is ever with me.
⁹⁹I have more understanding than all my teachers,
    for ^(ER)your testimonies are my meditation.
¹⁰⁰I understand more than ^(ES)the aged,^[h]
    for I ^(ET)keep your precepts.
¹⁰¹I ^(EU)hold 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 ^(EV)sweet are your words to my taste,
    sweeter than honey to my mouth!
¹⁰⁴Through your precepts I get understanding;
    therefore ^(EW)I hate every false way.

Nun

¹⁰⁵^(EX)Your word is a lamp to my feet
    and a light to my path.
¹⁰⁶I have ^(EY)sworn an oath and confirmed it,
    to keep your ^(EZ)righteous rules.
¹⁰⁷I am severely ^(FA)afflicted;
    ^(FB)give me life, O Lord, according to your word!
¹⁰⁸Accept ^(FC)my freewill offerings of praise, O Lord,
    and ^(FD)teach me your rules.
¹⁰⁹I hold my life ^(FE)in my hand continually,
    but I do not ^(FF)forget your law.
¹¹⁰The wicked have laid ^(FG)a snare for me,
    but ^(FH)I do not stray from your precepts.
¹¹¹Your testimonies are ^(FI)my heritage forever,
    for they are ^(FJ)the joy of my heart.
¹¹²I ^(FK)incline my heart to perform your statutes
    forever, ^(FL)to the end.^[i]

Samekh

¹¹³I hate ^(FM)the double-minded,
    but I love ^(FN)your law.
¹¹⁴You are my ^(FO)hiding place and my ^(FP)shield;
    I ^(FQ)hope in your word.
¹¹⁵^(FR)Depart from me, you evildoers,
    that I may ^(FS)keep the commandments of my God.
¹¹⁶Uphold me ^(FT)according to your promise, that I may live,
    and let me not be ^(FU)put to shame in my ^(FV)hope!
¹¹⁷^(FW)Hold me up, that I may be safe
    and have regard for your statutes continually!
¹¹⁸You ^(FX)spurn all who ^(FY)go astray from your statutes,
    for their cunning is in vain.
¹¹⁹All the wicked of the earth you discard like ^(FZ)dross,
    therefore ^(GA)I love your testimonies.
¹²⁰My flesh ^(GB)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 ^(GC)a pledge of good;
    let not ^(GD)the insolent oppress me.
¹²³My ^(GE)eyes long for your salvation
    and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
¹²⁴Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
    and ^(GF)teach me your statutes.
¹²⁵I am your ^(GG)servant; ^(GH)give me understanding,
    that I may know your testimonies!
¹²⁶It is time for the Lord to act,
    for your law has been broken.
¹²⁷Therefore I ^(GI)love your commandments
    above gold, above fine gold.
¹²⁸Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right;
    I hate every ^(GJ)false way.

Pe

¹²⁹Your testimonies are ^(GK)wonderful;
    therefore my soul ^(GL)keeps them.
¹³⁰The unfolding of your words gives light;
    it imparts ^(GM)understanding to the simple.
¹³¹I ^(GN)open my mouth and ^(GO)pant,
    because I ^(GP)long for your commandments.
¹³²^(GQ)Turn to me and be gracious to me,
    as is your way with those who love your name.
¹³³^(GR)Keep steady my steps according to your promise,
    and let no iniquity ^(GS)get dominion over me.
¹³⁴^(GT)Redeem me from man's oppression,
    that I may keep your precepts.
¹³⁵^(GU)Make your face shine upon your servant,
    and ^(GV)teach me your statutes.
¹³⁶My eyes ^(GW)shed streams of tears,
    because people ^(GX)do not keep your law.

Tsadhe

¹³⁷^(GY)Righteous are you, O Lord,
    and right are your rules.
¹³⁸You have appointed your testimonies in ^(GZ)righteousness
    and in all ^(HA)faithfulness.
¹³⁹My ^(HB)zeal consumes me,
    because my foes forget your words.
¹⁴⁰Your promise is well ^(HC)tried,
    and your servant ^(HD)loves it.
¹⁴¹I am small and despised,
    yet I do not ^(HE)forget your precepts.
¹⁴²Your righteousness is righteous forever,
    and your law is ^(HF)true.
¹⁴³Trouble and anguish have found me out,
    but your commandments are my ^(HG)delight.
¹⁴⁴Your testimonies are righteous forever;
    ^(HH)give me understanding that I may ^(HI)live.

Qoph

¹⁴⁵With my ^(HJ)whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord!
    I will ^(HK)keep your statutes.
¹⁴⁶I call to you; save me,
    that I may observe your testimonies.
¹⁴⁷I rise before ^(HL)dawn and cry for help;
    I ^(HM)hope in your words.
¹⁴⁸My eyes are awake before ^(HN)the watches of the night,
    that I may meditate on your promise.
¹⁴⁹Hear my voice according to your steadfast love;
    O Lord, ^(HO)according to your justice ^(HP)give me life.
¹⁵⁰They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose;
    they are far from your law.
¹⁵¹But ^(HQ)you are near, O Lord,
    and all your commandments are ^(HR)true.
¹⁵²Long have I known from your testimonies
    that you have ^(HS)founded them forever.

Resh

¹⁵³Look on my ^(HT)affliction and deliver me,
    for ^(HU)I do not forget your law.
¹⁵⁴^(HV)Plead my cause and redeem me;
    ^(HW)give me life according to your promise!
¹⁵⁵^(HX)Salvation is far from the wicked,
    ^(HY)for they do not seek your statutes.
¹⁵⁶^(HZ)Great is your mercy, O Lord;
    ^(IA)give me life according to your rules.
¹⁵⁷^(IB)Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,
    but I do not ^(IC)swerve from your testimonies.
¹⁵⁸I look at ^(ID)the faithless with ^(IE)disgust,
    because they do not keep your commands.
¹⁵⁹Consider how I ^(IF)love your precepts!
    ^(IG)Give me life according to your steadfast love.
¹⁶⁰^(IH)The sum of your word is ^(II)truth,
    and every one of your ^(IJ)righteous rules endures forever.

Sin and Shin

¹⁶¹^(IK)Princes persecute me ^(IL)without cause,
    but my heart ^(IM)stands in awe of your words.
¹⁶²I ^(IN)rejoice at your word
    like one who ^(IO)finds great spoil.
¹⁶³I hate and abhor falsehood,
    but I love ^(IP)your law.
¹⁶⁴Seven times a day I praise you
    for your ^(IQ)righteous rules.
¹⁶⁵Great ^(IR)peace have those who love your law;
    ^(IS)nothing can make them stumble.
¹⁶⁶I ^(IT)hope for your salvation, O Lord,
    and I do your commandments.
¹⁶⁷My soul keeps your testimonies;
    I ^(IU)love them exceedingly.
¹⁶⁸I keep your precepts and testimonies,
    ^(IV)for all my ways are before you.

Taw

¹⁶⁹Let my ^(IW)cry come before you, O Lord;
    ^(IX)give me understanding ^(IY)according to your word!
¹⁷⁰Let my plea come before you;
    ^(IZ)deliver me according to your word.
¹⁷¹My lips will ^(JA)pour forth praise,
    for you ^(JB)teach me your statutes.
¹⁷²My tongue will sing of your word,
    for ^(JC)all your commandments are right.
¹⁷³Let your hand be ready to help me,
    for I have ^(JD)chosen your precepts.
¹⁷⁴I ^(JE)long for your salvation, O Lord,
    and your law is my ^(JF)delight.
¹⁷⁵Let my soul live and praise you,
    and let your rules help me.
¹⁷⁶I have ^(JG)gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant,
    for I do not ^(JH)forget your commandments.

Footnotes

Psalm 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
Psalm 119:7 Or your just and righteous decrees; also verses 62, 106, 160, 164
Psalm 119:13 Or all the just decrees
Psalm 119:20 Or your just decrees; also verses 30, 39, 43, 52, 75, 102, 108, 137, 156, 175
Psalm 119:32 Or for you set my heart free
Psalm 119:33 Or keep it as my reward
Psalm 119:84 Hebrew How many are the days of your servant?
Psalm 119:100 Or the elders
Psalm 119:112 Or statutes; the reward is eternal

Psalm 119

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Psalm 119

The Glories of God’s Law

¹Happy are those whose way is blameless,
    who walk in the law of the Lord.
²Happy are those who keep his decrees,
    who seek him with their whole heart,
³who also do no wrong,
    but walk in his ways.
⁴You have commanded your precepts
    to be kept diligently.
⁵O that my ways may be steadfast
    in keeping your statutes!
⁶Then 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 your righteous ordinances.
⁸I will observe your statutes;
    do not utterly forsake me.

⁹How can young people keep their way pure?
    By guarding it according to your word.
¹⁰With my whole heart I seek you;
    do not let me stray from your commandments.
¹¹I treasure your word in my heart,
    so that I may not sin against you.
¹²Blessed are you, O Lord;
    teach me your statutes.
¹³With my lips I declare
    all the ordinances of your mouth.
¹⁴I delight in the way of your decrees
    as much as in all riches.
¹⁵I will meditate on your precepts,
    and fix my eyes on your ways.
¹⁶I will delight in your statutes;
    I will not forget your word.

¹⁷Deal bountifully with your servant,
    so that I may live and observe your word.
¹⁸Open my eyes, so that I may behold
    wondrous things out of your law.
¹⁹I live as an alien in the land;
    do not hide your commandments from me.
²⁰My soul is consumed with longing
    for your ordinances at all times.
²¹You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones,
    who wander from your commandments;
²²take away from me their scorn and contempt,
    for I have kept your decrees.
²³Even though princes sit plotting against me,
    your servant will meditate on your statutes.
²⁴Your decrees are my delight,
    they are my counselors.

²⁵My soul clings to the dust;
    revive me according to your word.
²⁶When I told of my ways, you answered me;
    teach me your statutes.
²⁷Make me understand the way of your precepts,
    and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
²⁸My soul melts away for sorrow;
    strengthen me according to your word.
²⁹Put false ways far from me;
    and graciously teach me your law.
³⁰I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
    I set your ordinances before me.
³¹I cling to your decrees, O Lord;
    let me not be put to shame.
³²I run the way of your commandments,
    for you enlarge my understanding.

³³Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes,
    and I will observe it to the end.
³⁴Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
    and observe it with my whole heart.
³⁵Lead me in the path of your commandments,
    for I delight in it.
³⁶Turn my heart to your decrees,
    and not to selfish gain.
³⁷Turn my eyes from looking at vanities;
    give me life in your ways.
³⁸Confirm to your servant your promise,
    which is for those who fear you.
³⁹Turn away the disgrace that I dread,
    for your ordinances are good.
⁴⁰See, I have longed for your precepts;
    in your righteousness give me life.

⁴¹Let your steadfast love come to me, O Lord,
    your salvation according to your promise.
⁴²Then I shall have an answer for those who taunt me,
    for I trust in your word.
⁴³Do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
    for my hope is in your ordinances.
⁴⁴I will keep your law continually,
    forever and ever.
⁴⁵I shall walk at liberty,
    for I have sought your precepts.
⁴⁶I will also speak of your decrees before kings,
    and shall not be put to shame;
⁴⁷I find my delight in your commandments,
    because I love them.
⁴⁸I revere your commandments, which I love,
    and I will meditate on your statutes.

⁴⁹Remember your word to your servant,
    in which you have made me hope.
⁵⁰This is my comfort in my distress,
    that your promise gives me life.
⁵¹The arrogant utterly deride me,
    but I do not turn away from your law.
⁵²When I think of your ordinances from of old,
    I take comfort, O Lord.
⁵³Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked,
    those who forsake your law.
⁵⁴Your statutes have been my songs
    wherever I make my home.
⁵⁵I remember your name in the night, O Lord,
    and keep your law.
⁵⁶This blessing has fallen to me,
    for I have kept your precepts.

⁵⁷The Lord is my portion;
    I promise to keep your words.
⁵⁸I implore your favor with all my heart;
    be gracious to me according to your promise.
⁵⁹When I think of your ways,
    I turn my feet to your decrees;
⁶⁰I hurry and do not delay
    to keep your commandments.
⁶¹Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me,
    I do not forget your law.
⁶²At midnight I rise to praise you,
    because of your righteous ordinances.
⁶³I am a companion of all who fear you,
    of those who keep your precepts.
⁶⁴The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
    teach me your statutes.

⁶⁵You have dealt well with your servant,
    O Lord, according to your word.
⁶⁶Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
    for I believe in your commandments.
⁶⁷Before I was humbled I went astray,
    but now I keep your word.
⁶⁸You are good and do good;
    teach me your statutes.
⁶⁹The arrogant smear me with lies,
    but with my whole heart I keep your precepts.
⁷⁰Their hearts are fat and gross,
    but I delight in your law.
⁷¹It is good for me that I was humbled,
    so that I might learn your statutes.
⁷²The law of your mouth is better to me
    than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

⁷³Your hands have made and fashioned me;
    give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
⁷⁴Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,
    because I have hoped in your word.
⁷⁵I know, O Lord, that your judgments are right,
    and that in faithfulness you have humbled me.
⁷⁶Let your steadfast love become my comfort
    according to your promise to your servant.
⁷⁷Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;
    for your law is my delight.
⁷⁸Let the arrogant be put to shame,
    because they have subverted me with guile;
    as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.
⁷⁹Let those who fear you turn to me,
    so that they may know your decrees.
⁸⁰May my heart be blameless in your statutes,
    so that I may not be put to shame.

⁸¹My soul languishes for your salvation;
    I hope in your word.
⁸²My eyes fail with watching for your promise;
    I ask, “When will you comfort me?”
⁸³For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,
    yet I have not forgotten your statutes.
⁸⁴How long must your servant endure?
    When will you judge those who persecute me?
⁸⁵The arrogant have dug pitfalls for me;
    they flout your law.
⁸⁶All your commandments are enduring;
    I am persecuted without cause; help me!
⁸⁷They have almost made an end of me on earth;
    but I have not forsaken your precepts.
⁸⁸In your steadfast love spare my life,
    so that I may keep the decrees of your mouth.

⁸⁹The Lord exists forever;
    your word is firmly fixed in heaven.
⁹⁰Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
    you have established the earth, and it stands fast.
⁹¹By your appointment they stand today,
    for all things are your servants.
⁹²If your law had not been my delight,
    I would have perished in my misery.
⁹³I will never forget your precepts,
    for by them you have given me life.
⁹⁴I am yours; save me,
    for I have sought your precepts.
⁹⁵The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,
    but I consider your decrees.
⁹⁶I have seen a limit to all perfection,
    but your commandment is exceedingly broad.

⁹⁷Oh, how I love your law!
    It is my meditation all day long.
⁹⁸Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies,
    for it is always with me.
⁹⁹I have more understanding than all my teachers,
    for your decrees are my meditation.
¹⁰⁰I understand more than the aged,
    for I keep your precepts.
¹⁰¹I hold back my feet from every evil way,
    in order to keep your word.
¹⁰²I do not turn away from your ordinances,
    for you have taught me.
¹⁰³How sweet are your words to my taste,
    sweeter than honey to my mouth!
¹⁰⁴Through your precepts I get understanding;
    therefore I hate every false way.

¹⁰⁵Your word is a lamp to my feet
    and a light to my path.
¹⁰⁶I have sworn an oath and confirmed it,
    to observe your righteous ordinances.
¹⁰⁷I am severely afflicted;
    give me life, O Lord, according to your word.
¹⁰⁸Accept my offerings of praise, O Lord,
    and teach me your ordinances.
¹⁰⁹I hold my life in my hand continually,
    but I do not forget your law.
¹¹⁰The wicked have laid a snare for me,
    but I do not stray from your precepts.
¹¹¹Your decrees are my heritage forever;
    they are the joy of my heart.
¹¹²I incline my heart to perform your statutes
    forever, to the end.

¹¹³I hate the double-minded,
    but I love your law.
¹¹⁴You are my hiding place and my shield;
    I hope in your word.
¹¹⁵Go away from me, you evildoers,
    that I may keep the commandments of my God.
¹¹⁶Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live,
    and let me not be put to shame in my hope.
¹¹⁷Hold me up, that I may be safe
    and have regard for your statutes continually.
¹¹⁸You spurn all who go astray from your statutes;
    for their cunning is in vain.
¹¹⁹All the wicked of the earth you count as dross;
    therefore I love your decrees.
¹²⁰My flesh trembles for fear of you,
    and I am afraid of your judgments.

¹²¹I have done what is just and right;
    do not leave me to my oppressors.
¹²²Guarantee your servant’s well-being;
    do not let the godless oppress me.
¹²³My eyes fail from watching for your salvation,
    and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
¹²⁴Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
    and teach me your statutes.
¹²⁵I am your servant; give me understanding,
    so that I may know your decrees.
¹²⁶It is time for the Lord to act,
    for your law has been broken.
¹²⁷Truly I love your commandments
    more than gold, more than fine gold.
¹²⁸Truly I direct my steps by all your precepts;^[a]
    I hate every false way.

¹²⁹Your decrees are wonderful;
    therefore my soul keeps them.
¹³⁰The unfolding of your words gives light;
    it imparts understanding to the simple.
¹³¹With open mouth I pant,
    because I long for your commandments.
¹³²Turn to me and be gracious to me,
    as is your custom toward those who love your name.
¹³³Keep my steps steady according to your promise,
    and never let iniquity have dominion over me.
¹³⁴Redeem me from human oppression,
    that I may keep your precepts.
¹³⁵Make your face shine upon your servant,
    and teach me your statutes.
¹³⁶My eyes shed streams of tears
    because your law is not kept.

¹³⁷You are righteous, O Lord,
    and your judgments are right.
¹³⁸You have appointed your decrees in righteousness
    and in all faithfulness.
¹³⁹My zeal consumes me
    because my foes forget your words.
¹⁴⁰Your promise is well tried,
    and your servant loves it.
¹⁴¹I am small and despised,
    yet I do not forget your precepts.
¹⁴²Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
    and your law is the truth.
¹⁴³Trouble and anguish have come upon me,
    but your commandments are my delight.
¹⁴⁴Your decrees are righteous forever;
    give me understanding that I may live.

¹⁴⁵With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord.
    I will keep your statutes.
¹⁴⁶I cry to you; save me,
    that I may observe your decrees.
¹⁴⁷I rise before dawn and cry for help;
    I put my hope in your words.
¹⁴⁸My eyes are awake before each watch of the night,
    that I may meditate on your promise.
¹⁴⁹In your steadfast love hear my voice;
    O Lord, in your justice preserve my life.
¹⁵⁰Those who persecute me with evil purpose draw near;
    they are far from your law.
¹⁵¹Yet you are near, O Lord,
    and all your commandments are true.
¹⁵²Long ago I learned from your decrees
    that you have established them forever.

¹⁵³Look on my misery and rescue me,
    for I do not forget your law.
¹⁵⁴Plead my cause and redeem me;
    give me life according to your promise.
¹⁵⁵Salvation is far from the wicked,
    for they do not seek your statutes.
¹⁵⁶Great is your mercy, O Lord;
    give me life according to your justice.
¹⁵⁷Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,
    yet I do not swerve from your decrees.
¹⁵⁸I look at the faithless with disgust,
    because they do not keep your commands.
¹⁵⁹Consider how I love your precepts;
    preserve my life according to your steadfast love.
¹⁶⁰The sum of your word is truth;
    and every one of your righteous ordinances endures forever.

¹⁶¹Princes persecute me without cause,
    but my heart stands in awe of your words.
¹⁶²I rejoice at your word
    like one who finds great spoil.
¹⁶³I hate and abhor falsehood,
    but I love your law.
¹⁶⁴Seven times a day I praise you
    for your righteous ordinances.
¹⁶⁵Great peace have those who love your law;
    nothing can make them stumble.
¹⁶⁶I hope for your salvation, O Lord,
    and I fulfill your commandments.
¹⁶⁷My soul keeps your decrees;
    I love them exceedingly.
¹⁶⁸I keep your precepts and decrees,
    for all my ways are before you.

¹⁶⁹Let my cry come before you, O Lord;
    give me understanding according to your word.
¹⁷⁰Let my supplication come before you;
    deliver me according to your promise.
¹⁷¹My lips will pour forth praise,
    because you teach me your statutes.
¹⁷²My tongue will sing of your promise,
    for all your commandments are right.
¹⁷³Let your hand be ready to help me,
    for I have chosen your precepts.
¹⁷⁴I long for your salvation, O Lord,
    and your law is my delight.
¹⁷⁵Let me live that I may praise you,
    and let your ordinances help me.
¹⁷⁶I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek out your servant,
    for I do not forget your commandments.

Footnotes

Psalm 119:128 Gk Jerome: Meaning of Heb uncertain

Psalm 119

Good News Translation

The Law of the Lord

119 Happy are those whose lives are faultless,
    who live according to the law of the Lord.
²Happy are those who follow his commands,
    who obey him with all their heart.
³They never do wrong;
    they walk in the Lord's ways.
⁴Lord, you have given us your laws
    and told us to obey them faithfully.
⁵How I hope that I shall be faithful
    in keeping your instructions!
⁶If I pay attention to all your commands,
    then I will not be put to shame.
⁷As I learn your righteous judgments,
    I will praise you with a pure heart.
⁸I will obey your laws;
    never abandon me!

Obedience to the Law of the Lord

⁹How can young people keep their lives pure?
    By obeying your commands.
¹⁰With all my heart I try to serve you;
    keep me from disobeying your commandments.
¹¹I keep your law in my heart,
    so that I will not sin against you.
¹²I praise you, O Lord;
    teach me your ways.
¹³I will repeat aloud
    all the laws you have given.
¹⁴I delight in following your commands
    more than in having great wealth.
¹⁵I study your instructions;
    I examine your teachings.
¹⁶I take pleasure in your laws;
    your commands I will not forget.

Happiness in the Law of the Lord

¹⁷Be good to me, your servant,
    so that I may live and obey your teachings.
¹⁸Open my eyes, so that I may see
    the wonderful truths in your law.
¹⁹I am here on earth for just a little while;
    do not hide your commands from me.
²⁰My heart aches with longing;
    I want to know your judgments at all times.
²¹You reprimand the proud;
    cursed are those who disobey your commands.
²²Free me from their insults and scorn,
    because I have kept your laws.
²³The rulers meet and plot against me,
    but I will study your teachings.
²⁴Your instructions give me pleasure;
    they are my advisers.

Determination to Obey the Law of the Lord

²⁵I lie defeated in the dust;
    revive me, as you have promised.
²⁶I confessed all I have done, and you answered me;
    teach me your ways.
²⁷Help me to understand your laws,
    and I will meditate on your wonderful teachings.^[a]
²⁸I am overcome by sorrow;
    strengthen me, as you have promised.
²⁹Keep me from going the wrong way,
    and in your goodness teach me your law.
³⁰I have chosen to be obedient;
    I have paid attention to your judgments.
³¹I have followed your instructions, Lord;
    don't let me be put to shame.
³²I will eagerly obey your commands,
    because you will give me more understanding.

A Prayer for Understanding

³³Teach me, Lord, the meaning of your laws,
    and I will obey them at all times.
³⁴Explain your law to me, and I will obey it;
    I will keep it with all my heart.
³⁵Keep me obedient to your commandments,
    because in them I find happiness.
³⁶Give me the desire to obey your laws
    rather than to get rich.
³⁷Keep me from paying attention to what is worthless;
    be good to me, as you have promised.
³⁸Keep your promise to me, your servant—
    the promise you make to those who obey you.
³⁹Save me from the insults I fear;
    how wonderful are your judgments!
⁴⁰I want to obey your commands;
    give me new life, for you are righteous.

Trusting the Law of the Lord

⁴¹Show me how much you love me, Lord,
    and save me according to your promise.
⁴²Then I can answer those who insult me
    because I trust in your word.
⁴³Enable me to speak the truth at all times,
    because my hope is in your judgments.
⁴⁴I will always obey your law,
    forever and ever.
⁴⁵I will live in perfect freedom,
    because I try to obey your teachings.
⁴⁶I will announce your commands to kings
    and I will not be ashamed.
⁴⁷I find pleasure in obeying your commands,
    because I love them.
⁴⁸I respect and love your commandments;
    I will meditate on your instructions.

Confidence in the Law of the Lord

⁴⁹Remember your promise to me, your servant;
    it has given me hope.
⁵⁰Even in my suffering I was comforted
    because your promise gave me life.
⁵¹The proud are always scornful of me,
    but I have not departed from your law.
⁵²I remember your judgments of long ago,
    and they bring me comfort, O Lord.
⁵³When I see the wicked breaking your law,
    I am filled with anger.
⁵⁴During my brief earthly life
    I compose songs about your commands.
⁵⁵In the night I remember you, Lord,
    and I think about your law.
⁵⁶I find my happiness
    in obeying your commands.

Devotion to the Law of the Lord

⁵⁷You are all I want, O Lord;
    I promise to obey your laws.
⁵⁸I ask you with all my heart
    to have mercy on me, as you have promised!
⁵⁹I have considered my conduct,
    and I promise to follow your instructions.
⁶⁰Without delay I hurry
    to obey your commands.
⁶¹The wicked have laid a trap for me,
    but I do not forget your law.
⁶²In the middle of the night I wake up
    to praise you for your righteous judgments.
⁶³I am a friend of all who serve you,
    of all who obey your laws.
⁶⁴Lord, the earth is full of your constant love;
    teach me your commandments.

The Value of the Law of the Lord

⁶⁵You have kept your promise, Lord,
    and you are good to me, your servant.
⁶⁶Give me wisdom and knowledge,
    because I trust in your commands.
⁶⁷Before you punished me, I used to go wrong,
    but now I obey your word.
⁶⁸How good you are—how kind!
    Teach me your commands.
⁶⁹The proud have told lies about me,
    but with all my heart I obey your instructions.
⁷⁰They have no understanding,
    but I find pleasure in your law.
⁷¹My punishment was good for me,
    because it made me learn your commands.
⁷²The law that you gave means more to me
    than all the money in the world.

The Justice of the Law of the Lord

⁷³You created me, and you keep me safe;
    give me understanding, so that I may learn your laws.
⁷⁴Those who honor you will be glad when they see me,
    because I trust in your promise.
⁷⁵I know that your judgments are righteous, Lord,
    and that you punished me because you are faithful.
⁷⁶Let your constant love comfort me,
    as you have promised me, your servant.
⁷⁷Have mercy on me, and I will live
    because I take pleasure in your law.
⁷⁸May the proud be ashamed for falsely accusing me;
    as for me, I will meditate on your instructions.
⁷⁹May those who honor you come to me—
    all those who know your commands.
⁸⁰May I perfectly obey your commandments
    and be spared the shame of defeat.

A Prayer for Deliverance

⁸¹I am worn out, Lord, waiting for you to save me;
    I place my trust in your word.
⁸²My eyes are tired from watching for what you promised,
    while I ask, “When will you help me?”
⁸³I am as useless as a discarded wineskin;
    yet I have not forgotten your commands.
⁸⁴How much longer must I wait?
    When will you punish those who persecute me?
⁸⁵The proud, who do not obey your law,
    have dug pits to trap me.
⁸⁶Your commandments are all trustworthy;
    people persecute me with lies—help me!
⁸⁷They have almost succeeded in killing me,
    but I have not neglected your commands.
⁸⁸Because of your constant love be good to me,
    so that I may obey your laws.

Faith in the Law of the Lord

⁸⁹Your word, O Lord, will last forever;
    it is eternal in heaven.
⁹⁰Your faithfulness endures through all the ages;
    you have set the earth in place, and it remains.
⁹¹All things remain to this day because of your command,
    because they are all your servants.
⁹²If your law had not been the source of my joy,
    I would have died from my sufferings.
⁹³I will never neglect your instructions,
    because by them you have kept me alive.
⁹⁴I am yours—save me!
    I have tried to obey your commands.
⁹⁵The wicked are waiting to kill me,
    but I will meditate on your laws.
⁹⁶I have learned that everything has limits;
    but your commandment is perfect.

Love for the Law of the Lord

⁹⁷How I love your law!
    I think about it all day long.
⁹⁸Your commandment is with me all the time
    and makes me wiser than my enemies.
⁹⁹I understand more than all my teachers,
    because I meditate on your instructions.
¹⁰⁰I have greater wisdom than those who are old,
    because I obey your commands.
¹⁰¹I have avoided all evil conduct,
    because I want to obey your word.
¹⁰²I have not neglected your instructions,
    because you yourself are my teacher.
¹⁰³How sweet is the taste of your instructions—
    sweeter even than honey!
¹⁰⁴I gain wisdom from your laws,
    and so I hate all bad conduct.

Light from the Law of the Lord

¹⁰⁵Your word is a lamp to guide me
    and a light for my path.
¹⁰⁶I will keep my solemn promise
    to obey your just instructions.
¹⁰⁷My sufferings, Lord, are terrible indeed;
    keep me alive, as you have promised.
¹⁰⁸Accept my prayer of thanks, O Lord,
    and teach me your commands.
¹⁰⁹I am always ready to risk my life;
    I^[b] have not forgotten your law.
¹¹⁰The wicked lay a trap for me,
    but I have not disobeyed your commands.
¹¹¹Your commandments are my eternal possession;
    they are the joy of my heart.
¹¹²I have decided to obey your laws
    until the day I die.

Safety in the Law of the Lord

¹¹³I hate those who are not completely loyal to you,
    but I love your law.
¹¹⁴You are my defender and protector;
    I put my hope in your promise.
¹¹⁵Go away from me, you sinful people.
    I will obey the commands of my God.
¹¹⁶Give me strength, as you promised, and I shall live;
    don't let me be disappointed in my hope!
¹¹⁷Hold me, and I will be safe,
    and I will always pay attention to your commands.
¹¹⁸You reject everyone who disobeys your laws;
    their deceitful schemes are useless.
¹¹⁹You treat all the wicked like rubbish,
    and so I love your instructions.
¹²⁰Because of you I am afraid;
    I am filled with fear because of your judgments.

Obedience to the Law of the Lord

¹²¹I have done what is right and good;
    don't abandon me to my enemies!
¹²²Promise that you will help your servant;
    don't let the arrogant oppress me!
¹²³My eyes are tired from watching for your saving help,
    for the deliverance you promised.
¹²⁴Treat me according to your constant love,
    and teach me your commands.
¹²⁵I am your servant; give me understanding,
    so that I may know your teachings.
¹²⁶Lord, it is time for you to act,
    because people are disobeying your law.
¹²⁷I love your commands more than gold,
    more than the finest gold.
¹²⁸And so I follow all your instructions;^[c]
    I hate all wrong ways.

Desire to Obey the Law of the Lord

¹²⁹Your teachings are wonderful;
    I obey them with all my heart.
¹³⁰The explanation of your teachings gives light
    and brings wisdom to the ignorant.
¹³¹In my desire for your commands
    I pant with open mouth.
¹³²Turn to me and have mercy on me
    as you do on all those who love you.
¹³³As you have promised, keep me from falling;
    don't let me be overcome by evil.
¹³⁴Save me from those who oppress me,
    so that I may obey your commands.
¹³⁵Bless me with your presence
    and teach me your laws.
¹³⁶My tears pour down like a river,
    because people do not obey your law.

The Justice of the Law of the Lord

¹³⁷You are righteous, Lord,
    and your laws are just.
¹³⁸The rules that you have given
    are completely fair and right.
¹³⁹My anger burns in me like a fire,
    because my enemies disregard your commands.
¹⁴⁰How certain your promise is!
    How I love it!
¹⁴¹I am unimportant and despised,
    but I do not neglect your teachings.
¹⁴²Your righteousness will last forever,
    and your law is always true.
¹⁴³I am filled with trouble and anxiety,
    but your commandments bring me joy.
¹⁴⁴Your instructions are always just;
    give me understanding, and I shall live.

A Prayer for Deliverance

¹⁴⁵With all my heart I call to you;
    answer me, Lord, and I will obey your commands!
¹⁴⁶I call to you;
    save me, and I will keep your laws.
¹⁴⁷Before sunrise I call to you for help;
    I place my hope in your promise.
¹⁴⁸All night long I lie awake,
    to meditate on your instructions.
¹⁴⁹Because your love is constant, hear me, O Lord;
    show your mercy, and preserve my life!
¹⁵⁰My cruel persecutors are coming closer,
    people who never keep your law.
¹⁵¹But you are near to me, Lord,
    and all your commands are permanent.
¹⁵²Long ago I learned about your instructions;
    you made them to last forever.

A Plea for Help

¹⁵³Look at my suffering, and save me,
    because I have not neglected your law.
¹⁵⁴Defend my cause, and set me free;
    save me, as you have promised.
¹⁵⁵The wicked will not be saved,
    for they do not obey your laws.
¹⁵⁶But your compassion, Lord, is great;
    show your mercy and save me!
¹⁵⁷I have many enemies and oppressors,
    but I do not fail to obey your laws.
¹⁵⁸When I look at those traitors, I am filled with disgust,
    because they do not keep your commands.
¹⁵⁹See how I love your instructions, Lord.
    Your love never changes, so save me!
¹⁶⁰The heart of your law is truth,
    and all your righteous judgments are eternal.

Dedication to the Law of the Lord

¹⁶¹Powerful people attack me unjustly,
    but I respect your law.
¹⁶²How happy I am because of your promises—
    as happy as someone who finds rich treasure.
¹⁶³I hate and detest all lies,
    but I love your law.
¹⁶⁴Seven times each day I thank you
    for your righteous judgments.
¹⁶⁵Those who love your law have perfect security,
    and there is nothing that can make them fall.
¹⁶⁶I wait for you to save me, Lord,
    and I do what you command.
¹⁶⁷I obey your teachings;
    I love them with all my heart.
¹⁶⁸I obey your commands and your instructions;
    you see everything I do.

A Prayer for Help

¹⁶⁹Let my cry for help reach you, Lord!
    Give me understanding, as you have promised.
¹⁷⁰Listen to my prayer,
    and save me according to your promise!
¹⁷¹I will always praise you,
    because you teach me your laws.
¹⁷²I will sing about your law,
    because your commands are just.
¹⁷³Always be ready to help me,
    because I follow your commands.
¹⁷⁴How I long for your saving help, O Lord!
    I find happiness in your law.
¹⁷⁵Give me life, so that I may praise you;
    may your instructions help me.
¹⁷⁶I wander about like a lost sheep;
    so come and look for me, your servant,
    because I have not neglected your laws.

Footnotes

Psalm 119:27 teachings; or deeds.
Psalm 119:109 I am always ready to risk my life; I; or My life is in constant danger, but I.
Psalm 119:128 Some ancient translations all your instructions; Hebrew unclear.

Psalm 119

New American Standard Bible

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Aleph

119 Blessed are those whose way is ^[a]^(A)blameless,
Who ^(B)walk in the Law of the Lord.
²Blessed are those who ^(C)comply with His ^[b]testimonies,
And ^(D)seek Him ^(E)with all their heart.
³They also ^(F)do no injustice;
They walk in His ways.
⁴You have ^[c]^(G)ordained Your precepts,
^[d]That we are to keep them diligently.
⁵Oh that my ^(H)ways may be established
To ^(I)keep Your statutes!
⁶Then I ^(J)will not be ashamed
When I look at all Your commandments.
⁷I will ^(K)give thanks to You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.
⁸I will keep Your statutes;
Do not utterly ^(L)abandon me!

Beth

⁹How can a young man keep his way pure?
By ^(M)keeping it according to Your word.
¹⁰With ^(N)all my heart I have sought You;
Do not let me ^(O)wander from Your commandments.
¹¹I have ^(P)treasured Your word in my heart,
So that I may not sin against You.
¹²Blessed are You, Lord;
^(Q)Teach me Your statutes.
¹³With my lips I have ^(R)told of
All the ^(S)ordinances of Your mouth.
¹⁴I have ^(T)rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
^[e]As much as in all riches.
¹⁵I will ^(U)meditate on Your precepts
And ^[f]regard ^(V)Your ways.
¹⁶I shall ^[g]^(W)delight in Your statutes;
I will ^(X)not forget Your word.

Gimel

¹⁷^(Y)Deal generously with Your servant,
That I may live and keep Your word.
¹⁸Open my eyes, that I may behold
Wonderful things from Your Law.
¹⁹I am a ^(Z)stranger on the earth;
Do not hide Your commandments from me.
²⁰My soul is crushed ^[h]^(AA)with longing
For Your ordinances at all times.
²¹You ^(AB)rebuke the arrogant, ^[i]the ^(AC)cursed,
Who ^(AD)wander from Your commandments.
²²^(AE)Take disgrace and contempt away from me,
For I ^(AF)comply with Your testimonies.
²³Even though ^(AG)rulers sit and speak against me,
Your servant ^(AH)meditates on Your statutes.
²⁴Your testimonies also are my ^(AI)delight;
They are ^[j]my advisers.

Daleth

²⁵My ^(AJ)soul clings to the dust;
^(AK)Revive me ^(AL)according to Your word.
²⁶I have told of my ways, and You have answered me;
^(AM)Teach me Your statutes.
²⁷Make me understand the way of Your precepts,
And I will ^(AN)meditate on Your wonders.
²⁸My ^(AO)soul ^[k]weeps because of grief;
^(AP)Strengthen me according to Your word.
²⁹Remove the false way from me,
And graciously grant me Your Law.
³⁰I have chosen the faithful way;
I have ^[l]placed Your judgments before me.
³¹I ^(AQ)cling to Your testimonies;
Lord, do not put me to shame!
³²I shall run the way of Your commandments,
For You will ^(AR)enlarge my heart.

He

³³^(AS)Teach me, the way of Your statutes, Lord,
And I shall comply with it to the end.
³⁴^(AT)Give me understanding, so that I may ^(AU)comply with Your Law
And keep it ^(AV)with all my heart.
³⁵Make me walk in the ^(AW)path of Your commandments,
For I ^(AX)delight in it.
³⁶^(AY)Incline my heart to Your testimonies,
And not to ^(AZ)dishonest gain.
³⁷Turn my ^(BA)eyes away from looking at what is worthless,
And ^(BB)revive me in Your ways.
³⁸^(BC)Establish Your ^[m]word to Your servant
^[n]As that which produces reverence for You.
³⁹^(BD)Take away my disgrace which I dread,
For Your judgments are good.
⁴⁰Behold, I ^(BE)long for Your precepts;
Revive me through Your righteousness.

Vav

⁴¹May Your ^(BF)favor also come to me, Lord,
Your salvation ^(BG)according to Your ^[o]word;
⁴²So that I will have an ^(BH)answer for one who ^(BI)taunts me,
For I trust in Your word.
⁴³And do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
For I ^[p]^(BJ)wait for Your judgments.
⁴⁴So I will ^(BK)keep Your Law continually,
Forever and ever.
⁴⁵And I will ^(BL)walk ^[q]at liberty,
For I ^(BM)seek Your precepts.
⁴⁶I will also speak of Your testimonies ^(BN)before kings
And shall not be ashamed.
⁴⁷I will ^(BO)delight in Your commandments,
Which I ^(BP)love.
⁴⁸And I shall lift up my hands to Your commandments,
Which I ^(BQ)love;
And I will ^(BR)meditate on Your statutes.

Zayin

⁴⁹Remember the word to Your servant,
^[r]In which You have made me hope.
⁵⁰This is my ^(BS)comfort in my misery,
That Your word has ^[s]revived me.
⁵¹The arrogant ^(BT)utterly deride me,
Yet I do not ^(BU)turn aside from Your Law.
⁵²I have ^(BV)remembered Your judgments from ^[t]of old, Lord,
And comfort myself.
⁵³Burning ^(BW)indignation has seized me because of the wicked,
Who ^(BX)abandon Your Law.
⁵⁴Your statutes are my songs
In the house of my ^(BY)pilgrimage.
⁵⁵Lord, I ^(BZ)remember Your name ^(CA)in the night,
And keep Your Law.
⁵⁶This has become mine,
^[u]That I ^(CB)comply with Your precepts.

Heth

⁵⁷The Lord is my ^(CC)portion;
I have ^[v]promised to ^(CD)keep Your words.
⁵⁸I ^(CE)sought Your favor ^(CF)with all my heart;
^(CG)Be gracious to me ^(CH)according to Your ^[w]word.
⁵⁹I ^(CI)considered my ways
And turned my feet to Your testimonies.
⁶⁰I hurried and did not delay
To keep Your commandments.
⁶¹The ^(CJ)snares of the wicked have surrounded me,
But I have ^(CK)not forgotten Your Law.
⁶²At ^(CL)midnight I will rise to give thanks to You
Because of Your ^(CM)righteous judgments.
⁶³I am a ^(CN)companion to all those who ^[x]fear You,
And to those who keep Your precepts.
⁶⁴^(CO)The earth is full of Your goodness, Lord;
^(CP)Teach me Your statutes.

Teth

⁶⁵You have treated Your servant well,
Lord, according to Your word.
⁶⁶Teach me good ^[y]^(CQ)discernment and knowledge,
For I believe in Your commandments.
⁶⁷^(CR)Before I was afflicted I went astray,
But now I keep Your word.
⁶⁸You are ^(CS)good and You ^(CT)do good;
^(CU)Teach me Your statutes.
⁶⁹The arrogant ^[z]have ^(CV)forged a lie against me;
With all my heart I will ^(CW)comply with Your precepts.
⁷⁰Their heart is ^(CX)insensitive, like fat,
But I ^(CY)delight in Your Law.
⁷¹It is ^(CZ)good for me that I was afflicted,
So that I may learn Your statutes.
⁷²The ^(DA)Law of Your mouth is better to me
Than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

Yodh

⁷³^(DB)Your hands made me and ^[aa]fashioned me;
^(DC)Give me understanding, so that I may learn Your commandments.
⁷⁴May those who ^[ab]fear You ^(DD)see me and be glad,
Because I ^[ac]^(DE)wait for Your word.
⁷⁵I know, Lord, that Your judgments are ^(DF)righteous,
And that You have afflicted me ^(DG)in faithfulness.
⁷⁶May Your favor ^[ad]comfort me,
According to Your ^[ae]word to Your servant.
⁷⁷May ^(DH)Your compassion come to me so that I may live,
For Your Law is my ^(DI)delight.
⁷⁸May ^(DJ)the arrogant be put to shame, because they lead me astray ^(DK)with a lie;
But I shall ^(DL)meditate on Your precepts.
⁷⁹May those who ^[af]fear You turn to me,
And those who know Your testimonies.
⁸⁰May my heart be ^[ag]^(DM)blameless in Your statutes,
So that I will not ^(DN)be ashamed.

Kaph

⁸¹My ^(DO)soul languishes for Your salvation;
I ^[ah]^(DP)wait for Your word.
⁸²My ^(DQ)eyes fail with longing for Your ^[ai]word,
^[aj]While I say, “When will You comfort me?”
⁸³Though I have ^(DR)become like a wineskin in the smoke,
I do ^(DS)not forget Your statutes.
⁸⁴How many are the ^(DT)days of Your servant?
When will You ^(DU)execute judgment on those who persecute me?
⁸⁵The arrogant have ^(DV)dug pits for me,
People who are not in accord with Your Law.
⁸⁶All Your commandments are ^(DW)faithful;
They have ^(DX)persecuted me with a lie; ^(DY)help me!
⁸⁷They almost destroyed me on earth,
But as for me, I ^(DZ)did not abandon Your precepts.
⁸⁸Revive me according to Your faithfulness,
So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.

Lamedh

⁸⁹^(EA)Forever, Lord,
Your word stands in heaven.
⁹⁰Your ^(EB)faithfulness continues ^[ak]throughout generations;
You ^(EC)established the earth, and it ^(ED)stands.
⁹¹They stand this day by Your ^(EE)ordinances,
For ^(EF)all things are Your servants.
⁹²If Your Law had not been my ^(EG)delight,
Then I would have perished ^(EH)in my misery.
⁹³I will ^(EI)never forget Your precepts,
For by them You have ^[al]^(EJ)revived me.
⁹⁴I am Yours, ^(EK)save me;
For I have ^(EL)sought Your precepts.
⁹⁵The wicked ^(EM)wait for me to destroy me;
I will diligently consider Your testimonies.
⁹⁶I have seen ^[am]a limit to all perfection;
Your commandment is exceedingly broad.

Mem

⁹⁷How I ^(EN)love Your Law!
It is my ^(EO)meditation all the day.
⁹⁸Your ^(EP)commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
For they are ever ^[an]mine.
⁹⁹I have more insight than all my teachers,
For Your testimonies are my ^(EQ)meditation.
¹⁰⁰I understand ^(ER)more than those who are old,
Because I have ^(ES)complied with Your precepts.
¹⁰¹I have ^(ET)restrained my feet from every evil way,
So that I may keep Your word.
¹⁰²I have not ^(EU)turned aside from Your judgments,
For You Yourself have taught me.
¹⁰³How ^(EV)sweet are Your ^[ao]words to my ^[ap]taste!
Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
¹⁰⁴From Your precepts I ^(EW)get understanding;
Therefore I ^(EX)hate every false way.

Nun

¹⁰⁵Your word is a ^(EY)lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.
¹⁰⁶I have ^(EZ)sworn and I will confirm it,
That I will keep Your righteous judgments.
¹⁰⁷I am exceedingly ^(FA)afflicted;
^[aq]^(FB)Revive me, Lord, according to Your word.
¹⁰⁸Be pleased to accept the ^(FC)^[ar]voluntary offerings of my mouth, Lord,
And ^(FD)teach me Your judgments.
¹⁰⁹My ^[as]^(FE)life is continually ^[at]in my hand,
Yet I do not ^(FF)forget Your Law.
¹¹⁰The wicked have ^(FG)set a ^[au]trap for me,
Yet I have not ^(FH)wandered from Your precepts.
¹¹¹I have ^(FI)inherited Your testimonies forever,
For they are the ^(FJ)joy of my heart.
¹¹²I have ^(FK)inclined my heart to perform Your statutes
Forever, even ^(FL)to the end.

Samekh

¹¹³I hate those who are ^(FM)double-minded,
But I love Your ^(FN)Law.
¹¹⁴You are my ^(FO)hiding place and my ^(FP)shield;
I ^[av]^(FQ)wait for Your word.
¹¹⁵^(FR)Leave me, you evildoers,
So that I may ^(FS)comply with the commandments of my God.
¹¹⁶^(FT)Sustain me according to Your ^[aw]word, that I may live;
And ^(FU)do not let me be ^[ax]ashamed of my hope.
¹¹⁷Sustain me so that I may be ^(FV)safe,
That I may ^(FW)have regard for Your statutes continually.
¹¹⁸You have ^[ay]rejected all those ^(FX)who stray from Your statutes,
For their deceitfulness is ^[az]useless.
¹¹⁹You have ^[ba]removed all the wicked of the earth like ^[bb]^(FY)impurities;
Therefore I ^(FZ)love Your testimonies.
¹²⁰My flesh ^[bc]^(GA)trembles from the fear of You,
And I am ^(GB)afraid of Your judgments.

Ayin

¹²¹I have ^(GC)done justice and righteousness;
Do not leave me to my oppressors.
¹²²Be ^(GD)a guarantor for Your servant for good;
Do not let the arrogant ^(GE)oppress me.
¹²³My ^(GF)eyes fail with longing for Your salvation,
And for Your righteous ^[bd]word.
¹²⁴Deal with Your servant ^(GG)according to Your graciousness,
And ^(GH)teach me Your statutes.
¹²⁵^(GI)I am Your servant; ^(GJ)give me understanding,
So that I may know Your testimonies.
¹²⁶It is time for the Lord to ^(GK)act,
For they have broken Your Law.
¹²⁷Therefore I ^(GL)love Your commandments
Above gold, yes, above pure gold.
¹²⁸Therefore I carefully follow all Your ^(GM)precepts concerning everything,
I ^(GN)hate every false way.

Pe

¹²⁹Your testimonies are ^(GO)wonderful;
Therefore my soul ^(GP)complies with them.
¹³⁰The ^(GQ)unfolding of Your words gives light;
It gives ^(GR)understanding to the simple.
¹³¹I ^(GS)opened my mouth wide and ^(GT)panted,
For I ^(GU)longed for Your commandments.
¹³²^(GV)Turn to me and be gracious to me,
As is right for those who love Your name.
¹³³Establish my ^(GW)footsteps in Your ^[be]word,
And do not let any ^[bf]wrongdoing ^(GX)have power over me.
¹³⁴^(GY)Redeem me from oppression by man,
So that I may keep Your precepts.
¹³⁵^(GZ)Make Your face shine upon Your servant,
And ^(HA)teach me Your statutes.
¹³⁶My eyes ^[bg]shed ^(HB)streams of water,
Because they ^(HC)do not keep Your Law.

Tsadhe

¹³⁷^(HD)You are righteous, Lord,
And Your judgments are right.
¹³⁸You have commanded Your testimonies in ^(HE)righteousness
And great ^(HF)faithfulness.
¹³⁹My ^(HG)zeal has ^[bh]consumed me,
Because my enemies have forgotten Your words.
¹⁴⁰Your ^(HH)word is very ^[bi]pure,
Therefore Your servant ^(HI)loves it.
¹⁴¹I am small and ^(HJ)despised,
Yet I do not ^(HK)forget Your precepts.
¹⁴²Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And ^(HL)Your Law is truth.
¹⁴³Trouble and anguish have ^[bj]come upon me,
Yet Your commandments are my ^(HM)delight.
¹⁴⁴Your ^(HN)testimonies are righteous forever;
^(HO)Give me understanding that I may live.

Qoph

¹⁴⁵I cried out ^(HP)with all my heart; answer me, Lord!
I will ^(HQ)comply with Your statutes.
¹⁴⁶I cried to You; ^(HR)save me
And I shall keep Your testimonies.
¹⁴⁷I ^[bk]^(HS)rise before dawn and cry for help;
I ^[bl]wait for Your words.
¹⁴⁸My eyes anticipate the ^(HT)night watches,
So that I may ^(HU)meditate on Your ^[bm]word.
¹⁴⁹Hear my voice ^(HV)according to Your faithfulness;
^(HW)Revive me, Lord, according to Your judgments.
¹⁵⁰Those who follow after wickedness approach;
They are far from Your Law.
¹⁵¹You are ^(HX)near, Lord,
And all Your commandments are ^(HY)truth.
¹⁵²From long ago I have ^(HZ)known from Your testimonies
That You have founded them ^(IA)forever.

Resh

¹⁵³^(IB)Look at my ^(IC)affliction and rescue me,
For I have not ^(ID)forgotten Your Law.
¹⁵⁴^(IE)Plead my cause and ^(IF)redeem me;
Revive me according to Your ^[bn]word.
¹⁵⁵Salvation is ^(IG)far from the wicked,
For they ^(IH)do not seek Your statutes.
¹⁵⁶^[bo]^(II)Great are Your mercies, Lord;
Revive me according to Your judgments.
¹⁵⁷Many are my ^(IJ)persecutors and my enemies,
Yet I do not ^(IK)turn aside from Your testimonies.
¹⁵⁸I see the ^(IL)treacherous and ^(IM)loathe them,
Because they do not keep Your word.
¹⁵⁹Consider how I ^(IN)love Your precepts;
^(IO)Revive me, Lord, according to Your faithfulness.
¹⁶⁰The ^(IP)sum of Your word is ^(IQ)truth,
And every one of Your righteous judgments ^(IR)is everlasting.

Shin

¹⁶¹^(IS)Rulers persecute me without cause,
But my heart ^(IT)stands in awe of Your words.
¹⁶²I ^(IU)rejoice at Your ^[bp]word,
Like one who ^(IV)finds great plunder.
¹⁶³I ^(IW)hate and loathe falsehood,
But I ^(IX)love Your Law.
¹⁶⁴Seven times a day I praise You
Because of Your ^(IY)righteous judgments.
¹⁶⁵Those who love Your Law have ^(IZ)great peace,
And ^[bq]^(JA)nothing causes them to stumble.
¹⁶⁶I ^(JB)hope for Your salvation, Lord,
And do Your commandments.
¹⁶⁷My ^(JC)soul keeps Your testimonies,
And I ^(JD)love them exceedingly.
¹⁶⁸I ^(JE)keep Your precepts and Your testimonies,
For all my ^(JF)ways are before You.

Tav

¹⁶⁹Let my ^(JG)cry ^[br]come before You, Lord;
^(JH)Give me understanding ^(JI)according to Your word.
¹⁷⁰Let my ^(JJ)pleading come before You;
^(JK)Save me according to Your ^[bs]word.
¹⁷¹Let my ^(JL)lips pour out praise,
For You ^(JM)teach me Your statutes.
¹⁷²Let my ^(JN)tongue sing about Your ^[bt]word,
For all Your ^(JO)commandments are righteousness.
¹⁷³Let Your ^(JP)hand be ^[bu]ready to help me,
For I have ^(JQ)chosen Your precepts.
¹⁷⁴I ^(JR)long for Your salvation, Lord,
And Your Law is my ^(JS)delight.
¹⁷⁵Let my ^(JT)soul live that it may praise You,
And let Your ordinances help me.
¹⁷⁶I have ^(JU)wandered about like a lost sheep; search for Your servant,
For I do ^(JV)not forget Your commandments.

Footnotes

Psalm 119:1 Lit complete; or having integrity
Psalm 119:2 Or provisions, and so throughout the Psalm
Psalm 119:4 Lit commanded
Psalm 119:4 Lit To keep
Psalm 119:14 Lit As over all
Psalm 119:15 Or look at
Psalm 119:16 Lit delight myself
Psalm 119:20 Lit for
Psalm 119:21 Or Cursed are those who wander...
Psalm 119:24 Lit the men of my counsel
Psalm 119:28 Lit drops
Psalm 119:30 Or accounted Your ordinances worthy
Psalm 119:38 Or promise
Psalm 119:38 Lit Which is for the fear of You
Psalm 119:41 Or promise
Psalm 119:43 Or hope in
Psalm 119:45 Lit in a wide place
Psalm 119:49 Lit On
Psalm 119:50 Or preserved me alive
Psalm 119:52 Or everlasting
Psalm 119:56 Or Because
Psalm 119:57 Lit said that I would keep
Psalm 119:58 Or promise
Psalm 119:63 Or revere
Psalm 119:66 Or judgment
Psalm 119:69 Lit besmear me with lies
Psalm 119:73 Lit established
Psalm 119:74 Or revere
Psalm 119:74 Or hope in
Psalm 119:76 Lit be for my comfort
Psalm 119:76 Or promise
Psalm 119:79 Or revere
Psalm 119:80 Lit complete; or having integrity
Psalm 119:81 Or hope in
Psalm 119:82 Or promise
Psalm 119:82 Lit Saying
Psalm 119:90 Lit to
Psalm 119:93 Or kept me alive
Psalm 119:96 Lit an end of
Psalm 119:98 Or with me
Psalm 119:103 Or promises
Psalm 119:103 Lit palate
Psalm 119:107 Or Keep me alive
Psalm 119:108 Or freewill offerings
Psalm 119:109 Lit soul
Psalm 119:109 I.e., in danger
Psalm 119:110 Lit trapping net
Psalm 119:114 Or hope in
Psalm 119:116 Or promise
Psalm 119:116 Lit put to shame because of
Psalm 119:118 Lit made light of
Psalm 119:118 Lit falsehood
Psalm 119:119 Lit caused to cease
Psalm 119:119 Lit dross
Psalm 119:120 Lit bristles up from
Psalm 119:123 Or promise
Psalm 119:133 Or promise
Psalm 119:133 Or injustice
Psalm 119:136 Lit run down
Psalm 119:139 Lit put an end to
Psalm 119:140 Lit refined
Psalm 119:143 Lit found me
Psalm 119:147 Lit anticipate the dawn
Psalm 119:147 Or hope in
Psalm 119:148 Or promise
Psalm 119:154 Or promise
Psalm 119:156 Or Many
Psalm 119:162 Or promise
Psalm 119:165 Lit they have no stumbling block.
Psalm 119:169 Lit come near before
Psalm 119:170 Or promise
Psalm 119:172 Or promise
Psalm 119:173 Lit to help me

Psalm 119

New International Version

Psalm 119^[a]

א Aleph

¹Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,^(A)
    who walk^(B) according to the law of the Lord.^(C)
²Blessed^(D) are those who keep his statutes^(E)
    and seek him^(F) with all their heart—^(G)
³they do no wrong^(H)
    but follow his ways.^(I)
⁴You have laid down precepts^(J)
    that are to be fully obeyed.^(K)
⁵Oh, that my ways were steadfast
    in obeying your decrees!^(L)
⁶Then I would not be put to shame^(M)
    when I consider all your commands.^(N)
⁷I will praise you with an upright heart
    as I learn your righteous laws.^(O)
⁸I will obey your decrees;
    do not utterly forsake me.^(P)

ב Beth

⁹How can a young person stay on the path of purity?^(Q)
    By living according to your word.^(R)
¹⁰I seek you with all my heart;^(S)
    do not let me stray from your commands.^(T)
¹¹I have hidden your word in my heart^(U)
    that I might not sin^(V) against you.
¹²Praise be^(W) to you, Lord;
    teach me^(X) your decrees.^(Y)
¹³With my lips I recount
    all the laws that come from your mouth.^(Z)
¹⁴I rejoice in following your statutes^(AA)
    as one rejoices in great riches.
¹⁵I meditate on your precepts^(AB)
    and consider your ways.
¹⁶I delight^(AC) in your decrees;
    I will not neglect your word.

ג Gimel

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

ד Daleth

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

ה He

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

ו Waw

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

ז Zayin

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

ח Heth

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

ט Teth

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

י Yodh

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

כ Kaph

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

ל Lamedh

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

מ Mem

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

נ Nun

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

ס Samekh

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

ע Ayin

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

פ Pe

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

צ Tsadhe

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

ק Qoph

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

ר Resh

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

ש Sin and Shin

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

ת Taw

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

Footnotes

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.
Psalm 119:33 Or follow it for its reward
Psalm 119:37 Two manuscripts of the Masoretic Text and Dead Sea Scrolls; most manuscripts of the Masoretic Text life in your way
Psalm 119:112 Or decrees / for their enduring reward

English Standard Version (ESV)

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE)

New Revised Standard Version Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Good News Translation (GNT)

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

New American Standard Bible is made available by The Lockman Foundation

New International Version (NIV)

Psalm 119 English Standard Version

Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet

Aleph

Beth

Gimel

Daleth

He

Waw

Zayin

Heth

Teth

Yodh

Kaph

Lamedh

Mem

Nun

Samekh

Ayin

Pe

Tsadhe

Qoph

Resh

Sin and Shin

Taw

Footnotes

Cross references

Psalm 119 New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Psalm 119

The Glories of God’s Law

Footnotes

Psalm 119 Good News Translation

The Law of the Lord

Obedience to the Law of the Lord

Happiness in the Law of the Lord

Determination to Obey the Law of the Lord

A Prayer for Understanding

Trusting the Law of the Lord

Confidence in the Law of the Lord

Devotion to the Law of the Lord

The Value of the Law of the Lord

The Justice of the Law of the Lord

A Prayer for Deliverance

Faith in the Law of the Lord

Love for the Law of the Lord

Light from the Law of the Lord

Safety in the Law of the Lord

Obedience to the Law of the Lord

Desire to Obey the Law of the Lord

The Justice of the Law of the Lord

A Prayer for Deliverance

A Plea for Help

Dedication to the Law of the Lord

A Prayer for Help

Footnotes

Psalm 119 New American Standard Bible

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Aleph

Beth

Gimel

Daleth

He

Vav

Zayin

Heth

Teth

Yodh

Kaph

Lamedh

Mem

Nun

Samekh

Ayin

Pe

Tsadhe

Qoph

Resh

Shin

Tav

Footnotes

Cross references

Psalm 119

English Standard Version

Psalm 119

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Psalm 119

Good News Translation

Psalm 119

New American Standard Bible

Psalm 119

New International Version

Psalm 119^[a]