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Psalm 119
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
Psalm 119
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
Psalm 119[a]
A Prayer to God, the Lawgiver
Aleph
1 Blessed those whose way is blameless,
who walk by the law of the Lord.(A)
2 Blessed those who keep his testimonies,
who seek him with all their heart.(B)
3 They do no wrong;
they walk in his ways.
4 You have given them the command
to observe your precepts with care.
5 May my ways be firm
in the observance of your statutes!
6 Then I will not be ashamed
to ponder all your commandments.
7 I will praise you with sincere heart
as I study your righteous judgments.
8 I will observe your statutes;
do not leave me all alone.
Beth
9 How can the young keep his way without fault?
Only by observing your words.
10 With all my heart I seek you;
do not let me stray from your commandments.
11 In my heart I treasure your promise,
that I may not sin against you.
12 Blessed are you, O Lord;
teach me your statutes.(C)
13 With my lips I recite
all the judgments you have spoken.
14 I find joy in the way of your testimonies
more than in all riches.
15 I will ponder your precepts
and consider your paths.
16 In your statutes I take delight;
I will never forget your word.
Gimel
17 Be kind to your servant that I may live,
that I may keep your word.
18 Open my eyes to see clearly
the wonders of your law.
19 I am a sojourner in the land;[b](D)
do not hide your commandments from me.
20 At all times my soul is stirred
with longing for your judgments.
21 With a curse you rebuke the proud
who stray from your commandments.
22 Free me from disgrace and contempt,
for I keep your testimonies.
23 Though princes meet and talk against me,
your servant meditates on your statutes.
24 Your testimonies are my delight;
they are my counselors.
Daleth
25 My soul clings to the dust;(E)
give me life in accord with your word.
26 I disclosed my ways and you answered me;
teach me your statutes.
27 Make me understand the way of your precepts;
I will ponder your wondrous deeds.
28 My soul is depressed;
lift me up acccording to your word.
29 Lead me from the way of deceit;
favor me with your law.
30 The way of loyalty I have chosen;
I have kept your judgments.
31 I cling to your testimonies, Lord;
do not let me come to shame.
32 I will run the way of your commandments,
for you will broaden my heart.
He
33 Lord, teach me the way of your statutes;
I shall keep them with care.(F)
34 Give me understanding to keep your law,
to observe it with all my heart.
35 Lead me in the path of your commandments,(G)
for that is my delight.
36 Direct my heart toward your testimonies
and away from gain.
37 Avert my eyes from what is worthless;
by your way give me life.
38 For your servant, fulfill your promise
made to those who fear you.
39 Turn away from me the taunts I dread,
for your judgments are good.
40 See how I long for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life.
Waw
41 Let your mercy come to me, Lord,
salvation in accord with your promise.
42 Let me answer my taunters with a word,
for I trust in your word.
43 Do not take the word of truth from my mouth,
for in your judgments is my hope.
44 I will keep your law always,
for all time and forever.
45 I will walk freely in an open space
because I cherish your precepts.
46 I will speak openly of your testimonies
without fear even before kings.
47 I delight in your commandments,
which I dearly love.
48 [c]I lift up my hands to your commandments;
I study your statutes, which I love.
Zayin
49 Remember your word to your servant
by which you give me hope.
50 This is my comfort in affliction,
your promise that gives me life.
51 Though the arrogant utterly scorn me,
I do not turn from your law.
52 When I recite your judgments of old
I am comforted, Lord.
53 Rage seizes me because of the wicked;
they forsake your law.
54 Your statutes become my songs
wherever I make my home.
55 Even at night I remember your name
in observance of your law, Lord.
56 This is my good fortune,
for I have kept your precepts.
Heth
57 My portion is the Lord;
I promise to observe your words.
58 I entreat you with all my heart:
have mercy on me in accord with your promise.
59 I have examined my ways
and turned my steps to your testimonies.
60 I am prompt, I do not hesitate
in observing your commandments.
61 Though the snares of the wicked surround me,
your law I do not forget.
62 At midnight I rise to praise you
because of your righteous judgments.
63 I am the friend of all who fear you,
of all who observe your precepts.
64 The earth, Lord, is filled with your mercy;(H)
teach me your statutes.
Teth
65 You have treated your servant well,
according to your word, O Lord.
66 Teach me wisdom and knowledge,
for in your commandments I trust.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I hold to your promise.
68 You are good and do what is good;
teach me your statutes.
69 The arrogant smear me with lies,
but I keep your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are gross and fat;(I)
as for me, your law is my delight.
71 It was good for me to be afflicted,
in order to learn your statutes.
72 The law of your mouth is more precious to me
than heaps of silver and gold.
Yodh
73 Your hands made me and fashioned me;
give me understanding to learn your commandments.
74 Those who fear you rejoice to see me,
because I hope in your word.
75 I know, Lord, that your judgments are righteous;
though you afflict me, you are faithful.
76 May your mercy comfort me
in accord with your promise to your servant.
77 Show me compassion that I may live,
for your law is my delight.
78 Shame the proud for leading me astray with falsehood,
that I may study your testimonies.
79 Let those who fear you turn to me,
those who acknowledge your testimonies.
80 May I be wholehearted toward your statutes,
that I may not be put to shame.
Kaph
81 My soul longs for your salvation;
I put my hope in your word.(J)
82 My eyes long to see your promise.(K)
When will you comfort me?
83 I am like a wineskin shriveled by smoke,(L)
but I have not forgotten your statutes.
84 How long can your servant survive?
When will your judgment doom my foes?
85 The arrogant have dug pits for me;
defying your law.
86 All your commandments are steadfast.
Help me! I am pursued without cause.
87 They have almost put an end to me on earth,
but I do not forsake your precepts.
88 In your mercy give me life,
to observe the testimonies of your mouth.
Lamedh
89 [d]Your word, Lord, stands forever;(M)
it is firm as the heavens.
90 Through all generations your truth endures;
fixed to stand firm like the earth.
91 By your judgments they stand firm to this day,
for all things are your servants.
92 Had your law not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget your precepts;
through them you give me life.
94 I am yours; save me,
for I cherish your precepts.
95 The wicked hope to destroy me,
but I seek to understand your testimonies.
96 I have seen the limits of all perfection,
but your commandment is without bounds.
Mem
97 How I love your law, Lord![e]
I study it all day long.
98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my foes,
as it is forever with me.
99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
because I ponder your testimonies.
100 I have more understanding than my elders,
because I keep your precepts.(N)
101 I keep my steps from every evil path,
that I may observe your word.
102 From your judgments I do not turn,
for you have instructed me.
103 How sweet to my tongue is your promise,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!(O)
104 Through your precepts I gain understanding;
therefore I hate all false ways.
Nun
105 Your word is a lamp for my feet,
a light for my path.(P)
106 I make a solemn vow
to observe your righteous judgments.
107 I am very much afflicted, Lord;
give me life in accord with your word.
108 Accept my freely offered praise;(Q)
Lord, teach me your judgments.
109 My life is always at risk,
but I do not forget your law.
110 The wicked have set snares for me,
but from your precepts I do not stray.
111 Your testimonies are my heritage forever;
they are the joy of my heart.
112 My heart is set on fulfilling your statutes;
they are my reward forever.
Samekh
113 I hate every hypocrite;
your law I love.
114 You are my refuge and shield;
in your word I hope.
115 Depart from me, you wicked,(R)
that I may keep the commandments of my God.
116 Sustain me by your promise that I may live;
do not disappoint me in my hope.
117 Strengthen me that I may be safe,
ever to contemplate your statutes.
118 You reject all who stray from your statutes,
for vain is their deceit.
119 Like dross you regard all the wicked on earth;
therefore I love your testimonies.
120 My flesh shudders with dread of you;
I fear your judgments.
Ayin
121 I have fulfilled your righteous judgment;
do not abandon me to my oppressors.
122 Guarantee your servant’s welfare;
do not let the arrogant oppress me.
123 My eyes long to see your salvation
and the promise of your righteousness.
124 Act with mercy toward your servant;
teach me your statutes.
125 I am your servant; give me discernment
that I may know your testimonies.
126 It is time for the Lord to act;
they have disobeyed your law.
127 Truly I love your commandments
more than gold, more than the finest gold.
128 Thus, I follow all your precepts;
every wrong way I hate.
Pe
129 Wonderful are your testimonies;
therefore I keep them.
130 The revelation of your words sheds light,
gives understanding to the simple.
131 I sigh with open mouth,
yearning for your commandments.
132 Turn to me and be gracious,(S)
according to your judgment for those who love your name.
133 Steady my feet in accord with your promise;
do not let iniquity lead me.
134 Free me from human oppression,
that I may observe your precepts.
135 Let your face shine upon your servant;
teach me your statutes.
136 My eyes shed streams of tears
because your law is not observed.
Sadhe
137 You are righteous, Lord,
and just are your judgments.(T)
138 You have given your testimonies in righteousness
and in surpassing faithfulness.
139 I am consumed with rage,
because my foes forget your words.
140 Your servant loves your promise;
it has been proved by fire.
141 Though belittled and despised,
I do not forget your precepts.
142 Your justice is forever right,
your law true.
143 Though distress and anguish come upon me,
your commandments are my delight.
144 Your testimonies are forever righteous;
give me understanding that I may live.
145 I call with all my heart, O Lord;
answer me that I may keep your statutes.
146 I call to you to save me
that I may observe your testimonies.
147 I rise before dawn and cry out;
I put my hope in your words.
148 My eyes greet the night watches
as I meditate on your promise.(U)
149 Hear my voice in your mercy, O Lord;
by your judgment give me life.
150 Malicious persecutors draw near me;
they are far from your law.
151 You are near, O Lord;
reliable are all your commandments.
152 Long have I known from your testimonies
that you have established them forever.
Resh
153 Look at my affliction and rescue me,
for I have not forgotten your law.
154 Take up my cause and redeem me;(V)
for the sake of your promise give me life.
155 Salvation is far from sinners
because they do not cherish your statutes.
156 Your compassion is great, O Lord;
in accord with your judgments, give me life.
157 Though my persecutors and foes are many,
I do not turn from your testimonies.
158 I view the faithless with loathing(W)
because they do not heed your promise.
159 See how I love your precepts, Lord;
in your mercy give me life.
160 Your every word is enduring;
all your righteous judgments are forever.
Shin
161 Princes persecute me without reason,
but my heart reveres only your word.
162 I rejoice at your promise,
as one who has found rich spoil.
163 Falsehood I hate and abhor;
your law I love.
164 Seven times a day I praise you
because your judgments are righteous.
165 Lovers of your law have much peace;(X)
for them there is no stumbling block.
166 I look for your salvation, Lord,
and I fulfill your commandments.
167 I observe your testimonies;
I love them very much.
168 I observe your precepts and testimonies;
all my ways are before you.
Taw
169 Let my cry come before you, Lord;(Y)
in keeping with your word, give me understanding.
170 Let my prayer come before you;
rescue me according to your promise.
171 May my lips pour forth your praise,
because you teach me your statutes.
172 May my tongue sing of your promise,
for all your commandments are righteous.
173 Keep your hand ready to help me,
for I have chosen your precepts.
174 I long for your salvation, Lord;
your law is my delight.
175 Let my soul live to praise you;
may your judgments give me help.
176 I have wandered like a lost sheep;
seek out your servant,
for I do not forget your commandments.(Z)
Footnotes
- Psalm 119 This Psalm, the longest by far in the Psalter, praises God for giving such splendid laws and instruction for people to live by. The author glorifies and thanks God for the Torah, prays for protection from sinners enraged by others’ fidelity to the law, laments the cost of obedience, delights in the law’s consolations, begs for wisdom to understand the precepts, and asks for the rewards of keeping them. Several expected elements do not appear in the Psalm: Mount Sinai with its story of God’s revelation and gift to Israel of instruction and commandments, the Temple and other institutions related to revelation and laws (frequent in other Psalms). The Psalm is fascinated with God’s word directing and guiding human life. The poem is an acrostic; its twenty-two stanzas (of eight verses each) are in the order of the Hebrew alphabet. Each of the eight verses within a stanza begins with the same letter. Each verse contains one word for “instruction.” The translation here given attempts to translate each Hebrew word for “instruction” with the same English word. There are, however, nine words for “instruction,” not eight, so the principle of a different word for “instruction” in each verse cannot be maintained with perfect consistency. The nine words for “instruction” in the translation are: law, statute, commandment, precept, testimony, word, judgment, way, and promise.
- 119:19 A sojourner in the land: like someone without the legal protection of a native inhabitant, the psalmist has a special need for the guidance of God’s teaching.
- 119:48 I lift up my hands to your commandments: to lift up the hands was an ancient gesture of reverence to God. Here the picture is applied to God’s law.
- 119:89–91 God’s word creates the world, which manifests that word by its permanence and reliability.
- 119:97 Lord: the inclusion of “Lord” follows the tradition of the Septuagint and the Vulgate.
Psalm 119
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition
Psalm 119
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition
Psalm 119
The Glories of God’s Law
1 Happy are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord.
2 Happy are those who keep his decrees,
who seek him with their whole heart,
3 who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways.
4 You have commanded your precepts
to be kept diligently.
5 O that my ways may be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
6 Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
7 I will praise you with an upright heart,
when I learn your righteous ordinances.
8 I will observe your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me.
9 How can young people keep their way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 With my whole heart I seek you;
do not let me stray from your commandments.
11 I treasure your word in my heart,
so that I may not sin against you.
12 Blessed are you, O Lord;
teach me your statutes.
13 With my lips I declare
all the ordinances of your mouth.
14 I delight in the way of your decrees
as much as in all riches.
15 I will meditate on your precepts,
and fix my eyes on your ways.
16 I will delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.
17 Deal bountifully with your servant,
so that I may live and observe your word.
18 Open my eyes, so that I may behold
wondrous things out of your law.
19 I live as an alien in the land;
do not hide your commandments from me.
20 My soul is consumed with longing
for your ordinances at all times.
21 You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones,
who wander from your commandments;
22 take away from me their scorn and contempt,
for I have kept your decrees.
23 Even though princes sit plotting against me,
your servant will meditate on your statutes.
24 Your decrees are my delight,
they are my counselors.
25 My soul clings to the dust;
revive me according to your word.
26 When I told of my ways, you answered me;
teach me your statutes.
27 Make me understand the way of your precepts,
and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
28 My soul melts away for sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.
29 Put false ways far from me;
and graciously teach me your law.
30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I set your ordinances before me.
31 I cling to your decrees, O Lord;
let me not be put to shame.
32 I run the way of your commandments,
for you enlarge my understanding.
33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes,
and I will observe it to the end.
34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
and observe it with my whole heart.
35 Lead me in the path of your commandments,
for I delight in it.
36 Turn my heart to your decrees,
and not to selfish gain.
37 Turn my eyes from looking at vanities;
give me life in your ways.
38 Confirm to your servant your promise,
which is for those who fear you.
39 Turn away the disgrace that I dread,
for your ordinances are good.
40 See, I have longed for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life.
41 Let your steadfast love come to me, O Lord,
your salvation according to your promise.
42 Then I shall have an answer for those who taunt me,
for I trust in your word.
43 Do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
for my hope is in your ordinances.
44 I will keep your law continually,
forever and ever.
45 I shall walk at liberty,
for I have sought your precepts.
46 I will also speak of your decrees before kings,
and shall not be put to shame;
47 I find my delight in your commandments,
because I love them.
48 I revere your commandments, which I love,
and I will meditate on your statutes.
49 Remember your word to your servant,
in which you have made me hope.
50 This is my comfort in my distress,
that your promise gives me life.
51 The arrogant utterly deride me,
but I do not turn away from your law.
52 When I think of your ordinances from of old,
I take comfort, O Lord.
53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked,
those who forsake your law.
54 Your statutes have been my songs
wherever I make my home.
55 I remember your name in the night, O Lord,
and keep your law.
56 This blessing has fallen to me,
for I have kept your precepts.
57 The Lord is my portion;
I promise to keep your words.
58 I implore your favor with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to your promise.
59 When I think of your ways,
I turn my feet to your decrees;
60 I hurry and do not delay
to keep your commandments.
61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me,
I do not forget your law.
62 At midnight I rise to praise you,
because of your righteous ordinances.
63 I am a companion of all who fear you,
of those who keep your precepts.
64 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
teach me your statutes.
65 You have dealt well with your servant,
O Lord, according to your word.
66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
for I believe in your commandments.
67 Before I was humbled I went astray,
but now I keep your word.
68 You are good and do good;
teach me your statutes.
69 The arrogant smear me with lies,
but with my whole heart I keep your precepts.
70 Their hearts are fat and gross,
but I delight in your law.
71 It is good for me that I was humbled,
so that I might learn your statutes.
72 The law of your mouth is better to me
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.
73 Your hands have made and fashioned me;
give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,
because I have hoped in your word.
75 I know, O Lord, that your judgments are right,
and that in faithfulness you have humbled me.
76 Let your steadfast love become my comfort
according to your promise to your servant.
77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;
for your law is my delight.
78 Let the arrogant be put to shame,
because they have subverted me with guile;
as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.
79 Let those who fear you turn to me,
so that they may know your decrees.
80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes,
so that I may not be put to shame.
81 My soul languishes for your salvation;
I hope in your word.
82 My eyes fail with watching for your promise;
I ask, “When will you comfort me?”
83 For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,
yet I have not forgotten your statutes.
84 How long must your servant endure?
When will you judge those who persecute me?
85 The arrogant have dug pitfalls for me;
they flout your law.
86 All your commandments are enduring;
I am persecuted without cause; help me!
87 They have almost made an end of me on earth;
but I have not forsaken your precepts.
88 In your steadfast love spare my life,
so that I may keep the decrees of your mouth.
89 The Lord exists forever;
your word is firmly fixed in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have established the earth, and it stands fast.
91 By your appointment they stand today,
for all things are your servants.
92 If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my misery.
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have given me life.
94 I am yours; save me,
for I have sought your precepts.
95 The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,
but I consider your decrees.
96 I have seen a limit to all perfection,
but your commandment is exceedingly broad.
97 Oh, how I love your law!
It is my meditation all day long.
98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies,
for it is always with me.
99 I have more understanding than all my teachers,
for your decrees are my meditation.
100 I understand more than the aged,
for I keep your precepts.
101 I hold back my feet from every evil way,
in order to keep your word.
102 I do not turn away from your ordinances,
for you have taught me.
103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 Through your precepts I get understanding;
therefore I hate every false way.
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light to my path.
106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it,
to observe your righteous ordinances.
107 I am severely afflicted;
give me life, O Lord, according to your word.
108 Accept my offerings of praise, O Lord,
and teach me your ordinances.
109 I hold my life in my hand continually,
but I do not forget your law.
110 The wicked have laid a snare for me,
but I do not stray from your precepts.
111 Your decrees are my heritage forever;
they are the joy of my heart.
112 I incline my heart to perform your statutes
forever, to the end.
113 I hate the double-minded,
but I love your law.
114 You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in your word.
115 Go away from me, you evildoers,
that I may keep the commandments of my God.
116 Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live,
and let me not be put to shame in my hope.
117 Hold me up, that I may be safe
and have regard for your statutes continually.
118 You spurn all who go astray from your statutes;
for their cunning is in vain.
119 All the wicked of the earth you count as dross;
therefore I love your decrees.
120 My flesh trembles for fear of you,
and I am afraid of your judgments.
121 I have done what is just and right;
do not leave me to my oppressors.
122 Guarantee your servant’s well-being;
do not let the godless oppress me.
123 My eyes fail from watching for your salvation,
and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
124 Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
and teach me your statutes.
125 I am your servant; give me understanding,
so that I may know your decrees.
126 It is time for the Lord to act,
for your law has been broken.
127 Truly I love your commandments
more than gold, more than fine gold.
128 Truly I direct my steps by all your precepts;[a]
I hate every false way.
129 Your decrees are wonderful;
therefore my soul keeps them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
it imparts understanding to the simple.
131 With open mouth I pant,
because I long for your commandments.
132 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
as is your custom toward those who love your name.
133 Keep my steps steady according to your promise,
and never let iniquity have dominion over me.
134 Redeem me from human oppression,
that I may keep your precepts.
135 Make your face shine upon your servant,
and teach me your statutes.
136 My eyes shed streams of tears
because your law is not kept.
137 You are righteous, O Lord,
and your judgments are right.
138 You have appointed your decrees in righteousness
and in all faithfulness.
139 My zeal consumes me
because my foes forget your words.
140 Your promise is well tried,
and your servant loves it.
141 I am small and despised,
yet I do not forget your precepts.
142 Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
and your law is the truth.
143 Trouble and anguish have come upon me,
but your commandments are my delight.
144 Your decrees are righteous forever;
give me understanding that I may live.
145 With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord.
I will keep your statutes.
146 I cry to you; save me,
that I may observe your decrees.
147 I rise before dawn and cry for help;
I put my hope in your words.
148 My eyes are awake before each watch of the night,
that I may meditate on your promise.
149 In your steadfast love hear my voice;
O Lord, in your justice preserve my life.
150 Those who persecute me with evil purpose draw near;
they are far from your law.
151 Yet you are near, O Lord,
and all your commandments are true.
152 Long ago I learned from your decrees
that you have established them forever.
153 Look on my misery and rescue me,
for I do not forget your law.
154 Plead my cause and redeem me;
give me life according to your promise.
155 Salvation is far from the wicked,
for they do not seek your statutes.
156 Great is your mercy, O Lord;
give me life according to your justice.
157 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,
yet I do not swerve from your decrees.
158 I look at the faithless with disgust,
because they do not keep your commands.
159 Consider how I love your precepts;
preserve my life according to your steadfast love.
160 The sum of your word is truth;
and every one of your righteous ordinances endures forever.
161 Princes persecute me without cause,
but my heart stands in awe of your words.
162 I rejoice at your word
like one who finds great spoil.
163 I hate and abhor falsehood,
but I love your law.
164 Seven times a day I praise you
for your righteous ordinances.
165 Great peace have those who love your law;
nothing can make them stumble.
166 I hope for your salvation, O Lord,
and I fulfill your commandments.
167 My soul keeps your decrees;
I love them exceedingly.
168 I keep your precepts and decrees,
for all my ways are before you.
169 Let my cry come before you, O Lord;
give me understanding according to your word.
170 Let my supplication come before you;
deliver me according to your promise.
171 My lips will pour forth praise,
because you teach me your statutes.
172 My tongue will sing of your promise,
for all your commandments are right.
173 Let your hand be ready to help me,
for I have chosen your precepts.
174 I long for your salvation, O Lord,
and your law is my delight.
175 Let me live that I may praise you,
and let your ordinances help me.
176 I 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
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.
2 Happy are those who follow his commands,
who obey him with all their heart.
3 They never do wrong;
they walk in the Lord's ways.
4 Lord, you have given us your laws
and told us to obey them faithfully.
5 How I hope that I shall be faithful
in keeping your instructions!
6 If I pay attention to all your commands,
then I will not be put to shame.
7 As I learn your righteous judgments,
I will praise you with a pure heart.
8 I will obey your laws;
never abandon me!
Obedience to the Law of the Lord
9 How can young people keep their lives pure?
By obeying your commands.
10 With all my heart I try to serve you;
keep me from disobeying your commandments.
11 I keep your law in my heart,
so that I will not sin against you.
12 I praise you, O Lord;
teach me your ways.
13 I will repeat aloud
all the laws you have given.
14 I delight in following your commands
more than in having great wealth.
15 I study your instructions;
I examine your teachings.
16 I take pleasure in your laws;
your commands I will not forget.
Happiness in the Law of the Lord
17 Be good to me, your servant,
so that I may live and obey your teachings.
18 Open my eyes, so that I may see
the wonderful truths in your law.
19 I am here on earth for just a little while;
do not hide your commands from me.
20 My heart aches with longing;
I want to know your judgments at all times.
21 You reprimand the proud;
cursed are those who disobey your commands.
22 Free me from their insults and scorn,
because I have kept your laws.
23 The rulers meet and plot against me,
but I will study your teachings.
24 Your instructions give me pleasure;
they are my advisers.
Determination to Obey the Law of the Lord
25 I lie defeated in the dust;
revive me, as you have promised.
26 I confessed all I have done, and you answered me;
teach me your ways.
27 Help me to understand your laws,
and I will meditate on your wonderful teachings.[a]
28 I am overcome by sorrow;
strengthen me, as you have promised.
29 Keep me from going the wrong way,
and in your goodness teach me your law.
30 I have chosen to be obedient;
I have paid attention to your judgments.
31 I have followed your instructions, Lord;
don't let me be put to shame.
32 I will eagerly obey your commands,
because you will give me more understanding.
A Prayer for Understanding
33 Teach me, Lord, the meaning of your laws,
and I will obey them at all times.
34 Explain your law to me, and I will obey it;
I will keep it with all my heart.
35 Keep me obedient to your commandments,
because in them I find happiness.
36 Give me the desire to obey your laws
rather than to get rich.
37 Keep me from paying attention to what is worthless;
be good to me, as you have promised.
38 Keep your promise to me, your servant—
the promise you make to those who obey you.
39 Save me from the insults I fear;
how wonderful are your judgments!
40 I want to obey your commands;
give me new life, for you are righteous.
Trusting the Law of the Lord
41 Show me how much you love me, Lord,
and save me according to your promise.
42 Then I can answer those who insult me
because I trust in your word.
43 Enable me to speak the truth at all times,
because my hope is in your judgments.
44 I will always obey your law,
forever and ever.
45 I will live in perfect freedom,
because I try to obey your teachings.
46 I will announce your commands to kings
and I will not be ashamed.
47 I find pleasure in obeying your commands,
because I love them.
48 I respect and love your commandments;
I will meditate on your instructions.
Confidence in the Law of the Lord
49 Remember your promise to me, your servant;
it has given me hope.
50 Even in my suffering I was comforted
because your promise gave me life.
51 The proud are always scornful of me,
but I have not departed from your law.
52 I remember your judgments of long ago,
and they bring me comfort, O Lord.
53 When I see the wicked breaking your law,
I am filled with anger.
54 During my brief earthly life
I compose songs about your commands.
55 In the night I remember you, Lord,
and I think about your law.
56 I find my happiness
in obeying your commands.
Devotion to the Law of the Lord
57 You are all I want, O Lord;
I promise to obey your laws.
58 I ask you with all my heart
to have mercy on me, as you have promised!
59 I have considered my conduct,
and I promise to follow your instructions.
60 Without delay I hurry
to obey your commands.
61 The wicked have laid a trap for me,
but I do not forget your law.
62 In the middle of the night I wake up
to praise you for your righteous judgments.
63 I am a friend of all who serve you,
of all who obey your laws.
64 Lord, the earth is full of your constant love;
teach me your commandments.
The Value of the Law of the Lord
65 You have kept your promise, Lord,
and you are good to me, your servant.
66 Give me wisdom and knowledge,
because I trust in your commands.
67 Before you punished me, I used to go wrong,
but now I obey your word.
68 How good you are—how kind!
Teach me your commands.
69 The proud have told lies about me,
but with all my heart I obey your instructions.
70 They have no understanding,
but I find pleasure in your law.
71 My punishment was good for me,
because it made me learn your commands.
72 The law that you gave means more to me
than all the money in the world.
The Justice of the Law of the Lord
73 You created me, and you keep me safe;
give me understanding, so that I may learn your laws.
74 Those who honor you will be glad when they see me,
because I trust in your promise.
75 I know that your judgments are righteous, Lord,
and that you punished me because you are faithful.
76 Let your constant love comfort me,
as you have promised me, your servant.
77 Have mercy on me, and I will live
because I take pleasure in your law.
78 May the proud be ashamed for falsely accusing me;
as for me, I will meditate on your instructions.
79 May those who honor you come to me—
all those who know your commands.
80 May I perfectly obey your commandments
and be spared the shame of defeat.
A Prayer for Deliverance
81 I am worn out, Lord, waiting for you to save me;
I place my trust in your word.
82 My eyes are tired from watching for what you promised,
while I ask, “When will you help me?”
83 I am as useless as a discarded wineskin;
yet I have not forgotten your commands.
84 How much longer must I wait?
When will you punish those who persecute me?
85 The proud, who do not obey your law,
have dug pits to trap me.
86 Your commandments are all trustworthy;
people persecute me with lies—help me!
87 They have almost succeeded in killing me,
but I have not neglected your commands.
88 Because of your constant love be good to me,
so that I may obey your laws.
Faith in the Law of the Lord
89 Your word, O Lord, will last forever;
it is eternal in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness endures through all the ages;
you have set the earth in place, and it remains.
91 All things remain to this day because of your command,
because they are all your servants.
92 If your law had not been the source of my joy,
I would have died from my sufferings.
93 I will never neglect your instructions,
because by them you have kept me alive.
94 I am yours—save me!
I have tried to obey your commands.
95 The wicked are waiting to kill me,
but I will meditate on your laws.
96 I have learned that everything has limits;
but your commandment is perfect.
Love for the Law of the Lord
97 How I love your law!
I think about it all day long.
98 Your commandment is with me all the time
and makes me wiser than my enemies.
99 I understand more than all my teachers,
because I meditate on your instructions.
100 I have greater wisdom than those who are old,
because I obey your commands.
101 I have avoided all evil conduct,
because I want to obey your word.
102 I have not neglected your instructions,
because you yourself are my teacher.
103 How sweet is the taste of your instructions—
sweeter even than honey!
104 I gain wisdom from your laws,
and so I hate all bad conduct.
Light from the Law of the Lord
105 Your word is a lamp to guide me
and a light for my path.
106 I will keep my solemn promise
to obey your just instructions.
107 My sufferings, Lord, are terrible indeed;
keep me alive, as you have promised.
108 Accept my prayer of thanks, O Lord,
and teach me your commands.
109 I am always ready to risk my life;
I[b] have not forgotten your law.
110 The wicked lay a trap for me,
but I have not disobeyed your commands.
111 Your commandments are my eternal possession;
they are the joy of my heart.
112 I have decided to obey your laws
until the day I die.
Safety in the Law of the Lord
113 I hate those who are not completely loyal to you,
but I love your law.
114 You are my defender and protector;
I put my hope in your promise.
115 Go away from me, you sinful people.
I will obey the commands of my God.
116 Give me strength, as you promised, and I shall live;
don't let me be disappointed in my hope!
117 Hold me, and I will be safe,
and I will always pay attention to your commands.
118 You reject everyone who disobeys your laws;
their deceitful schemes are useless.
119 You treat all the wicked like rubbish,
and so I love your instructions.
120 Because of you I am afraid;
I am filled with fear because of your judgments.
Obedience to the Law of the Lord
121 I have done what is right and good;
don't abandon me to my enemies!
122 Promise that you will help your servant;
don't let the arrogant oppress me!
123 My eyes are tired from watching for your saving help,
for the deliverance you promised.
124 Treat me according to your constant love,
and teach me your commands.
125 I am your servant; give me understanding,
so that I may know your teachings.
126 Lord, it is time for you to act,
because people are disobeying your law.
127 I love your commands more than gold,
more than the finest gold.
128 And so I follow all your instructions;[c]
I hate all wrong ways.
Desire to Obey the Law of the Lord
129 Your teachings are wonderful;
I obey them with all my heart.
130 The explanation of your teachings gives light
and brings wisdom to the ignorant.
131 In my desire for your commands
I pant with open mouth.
132 Turn to me and have mercy on me
as you do on all those who love you.
133 As you have promised, keep me from falling;
don't let me be overcome by evil.
134 Save me from those who oppress me,
so that I may obey your commands.
135 Bless me with your presence
and teach me your laws.
136 My tears pour down like a river,
because people do not obey your law.
The Justice of the Law of the Lord
137 You are righteous, Lord,
and your laws are just.
138 The rules that you have given
are completely fair and right.
139 My anger burns in me like a fire,
because my enemies disregard your commands.
140 How certain your promise is!
How I love it!
141 I am unimportant and despised,
but I do not neglect your teachings.
142 Your righteousness will last forever,
and your law is always true.
143 I am filled with trouble and anxiety,
but your commandments bring me joy.
144 Your instructions are always just;
give me understanding, and I shall live.
A Prayer for Deliverance
145 With all my heart I call to you;
answer me, Lord, and I will obey your commands!
146 I call to you;
save me, and I will keep your laws.
147 Before sunrise I call to you for help;
I place my hope in your promise.
148 All night long I lie awake,
to meditate on your instructions.
149 Because your love is constant, hear me, O Lord;
show your mercy, and preserve my life!
150 My cruel persecutors are coming closer,
people who never keep your law.
151 But you are near to me, Lord,
and all your commands are permanent.
152 Long ago I learned about your instructions;
you made them to last forever.
A Plea for Help
153 Look at my suffering, and save me,
because I have not neglected your law.
154 Defend my cause, and set me free;
save me, as you have promised.
155 The wicked will not be saved,
for they do not obey your laws.
156 But your compassion, Lord, is great;
show your mercy and save me!
157 I have many enemies and oppressors,
but I do not fail to obey your laws.
158 When I look at those traitors, I am filled with disgust,
because they do not keep your commands.
159 See how I love your instructions, Lord.
Your love never changes, so save me!
160 The heart of your law is truth,
and all your righteous judgments are eternal.
Dedication to the Law of the Lord
161 Powerful people attack me unjustly,
but I respect your law.
162 How happy I am because of your promises—
as happy as someone who finds rich treasure.
163 I hate and detest all lies,
but I love your law.
164 Seven times each day I thank you
for your righteous judgments.
165 Those who love your law have perfect security,
and there is nothing that can make them fall.
166 I wait for you to save me, Lord,
and I do what you command.
167 I obey your teachings;
I love them with all my heart.
168 I obey your commands and your instructions;
you see everything I do.
A Prayer for Help
169 Let my cry for help reach you, Lord!
Give me understanding, as you have promised.
170 Listen to my prayer,
and save me according to your promise!
171 I will always praise you,
because you teach me your laws.
172 I will sing about your law,
because your commands are just.
173 Always be ready to help me,
because I follow your commands.
174 How I long for your saving help, O Lord!
I find happiness in your law.
175 Give me life, so that I may praise you;
may your instructions help me.
176 I 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
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.
2 Blessed are those who (C)comply with His [b]testimonies,
And (D)seek Him (E)with all their heart.
3 They also (F)do no injustice;
They walk in His ways.
4 You have [c](G)ordained Your precepts,
[d]That we are to keep them diligently.
5 Oh that my (H)ways may be established
To (I)keep Your statutes!
6 Then I (J)will not be ashamed
When I look at all Your commandments.
7 I will (K)give thanks to You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.
8 I will keep Your statutes;
Do not utterly (L)abandon me!
Beth
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By (M)keeping it according to Your word.
10 With (N)all my heart I have sought You;
Do not let me (O)wander from Your commandments.
11 I have (P)treasured Your word in my heart,
So that I may not sin against You.
12 Blessed are You, Lord;
(Q)Teach me Your statutes.
13 With my lips I have (R)told of
All the (S)ordinances of Your mouth.
14 I have (T)rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
[e]As much as in all riches.
15 I will (U)meditate on Your precepts
And [f]regard (V)Your ways.
16 I 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.
18 Open my eyes, that I may behold
Wonderful things from Your Law.
19 I am a (Z)stranger on the earth;
Do not hide Your commandments from me.
20 My soul is crushed [h](AA)with longing
For Your ordinances at all times.
21 You (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.
23 Even though (AG)rulers sit and speak against me,
Your servant (AH)meditates on Your statutes.
24 Your testimonies also are my (AI)delight;
They are [j]my advisers.
Daleth
25 My (AJ)soul clings to the dust;
(AK)Revive me (AL)according to Your word.
26 I have told of my ways, and You have answered me;
(AM)Teach me Your statutes.
27 Make me understand the way of Your precepts,
And I will (AN)meditate on Your wonders.
28 My (AO)soul [k]weeps because of grief;
(AP)Strengthen me according to Your word.
29 Remove the false way from me,
And graciously grant me Your Law.
30 I have chosen the faithful way;
I have [l]placed Your judgments before me.
31 I (AQ)cling to Your testimonies;
Lord, do not put me to shame!
32 I 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.
35 Make 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.
37 Turn 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.
40 Behold, I (BE)long for Your precepts;
Revive me through Your righteousness.
Vav
41 May Your (BF)favor also come to me, Lord,
Your salvation (BG)according to Your [o]word;
42 So that I will have an (BH)answer for one who (BI)taunts me,
For I trust in Your word.
43 And do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
For I [p](BJ)wait for Your judgments.
44 So I will (BK)keep Your Law continually,
Forever and ever.
45 And I will (BL)walk [q]at liberty,
For I (BM)seek Your precepts.
46 I will also speak of Your testimonies (BN)before kings
And shall not be ashamed.
47 I will (BO)delight in Your commandments,
Which I (BP)love.
48 And I shall lift up my hands to Your commandments,
Which I (BQ)love;
And I will (BR)meditate on Your statutes.
Zayin
49 Remember the word to Your servant,
[r]In which You have made me hope.
50 This is my (BS)comfort in my misery,
That Your word has [s]revived me.
51 The arrogant (BT)utterly deride me,
Yet I do not (BU)turn aside from Your Law.
52 I have (BV)remembered Your judgments from [t]of old, Lord,
And comfort myself.
53 Burning (BW)indignation has seized me because of the wicked,
Who (BX)abandon Your Law.
54 Your statutes are my songs
In the house of my (BY)pilgrimage.
55 Lord, I (BZ)remember Your name (CA)in the night,
And keep Your Law.
56 This has become mine,
[u]That I (CB)comply with Your precepts.
Heth
57 The Lord is my (CC)portion;
I have [v]promised to (CD)keep Your words.
58 I (CE)sought Your favor (CF)with all my heart;
(CG)Be gracious to me (CH)according to Your [w]word.
59 I (CI)considered my ways
And turned my feet to Your testimonies.
60 I hurried and did not delay
To keep Your commandments.
61 The (CJ)snares of the wicked have surrounded me,
But I have (CK)not forgotten Your Law.
62 At (CL)midnight I will rise to give thanks to You
Because of Your (CM)righteous judgments.
63 I 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
65 You have treated Your servant well,
Lord, according to Your word.
66 Teach 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.
68 You are (CS)good and You (CT)do good;
(CU)Teach me Your statutes.
69 The arrogant [z]have (CV)forged a lie against me;
With all my heart I will (CW)comply with Your precepts.
70 Their heart is (CX)insensitive, like fat,
But I (CY)delight in Your Law.
71 It is (CZ)good for me that I was afflicted,
So that I may learn Your statutes.
72 The (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.
74 May those who [ab]fear You (DD)see me and be glad,
Because I [ac](DE)wait for Your word.
75 I know, Lord, that Your judgments are (DF)righteous,
And that You have afflicted me (DG)in faithfulness.
76 May Your favor [ad]comfort me,
According to Your [ae]word to Your servant.
77 May (DH)Your compassion come to me so that I may live,
For Your Law is my (DI)delight.
78 May (DJ)the arrogant be put to shame, because they lead me astray (DK)with a lie;
But I shall (DL)meditate on Your precepts.
79 May those who [af]fear You turn to me,
And those who know Your testimonies.
80 May my heart be [ag](DM)blameless in Your statutes,
So that I will not (DN)be ashamed.
Kaph
81 My (DO)soul languishes for Your salvation;
I [ah](DP)wait for Your word.
82 My (DQ)eyes fail with longing for Your [ai]word,
[aj]While I say, “When will You comfort me?”
83 Though I have (DR)become like a wineskin in the smoke,
I do (DS)not forget Your statutes.
84 How many are the (DT)days of Your servant?
When will You (DU)execute judgment on those who persecute me?
85 The arrogant have (DV)dug pits for me,
People who are not in accord with Your Law.
86 All Your commandments are (DW)faithful;
They have (DX)persecuted me with a lie; (DY)help me!
87 They almost destroyed me on earth,
But as for me, I (DZ)did not abandon Your precepts.
88 Revive 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.
90 Your (EB)faithfulness continues [ak]throughout generations;
You (EC)established the earth, and it (ED)stands.
91 They stand this day by Your (EE)ordinances,
For (EF)all things are Your servants.
92 If Your Law had not been my (EG)delight,
Then I would have perished (EH)in my misery.
93 I will (EI)never forget Your precepts,
For by them You have [al](EJ)revived me.
94 I am Yours, (EK)save me;
For I have (EL)sought Your precepts.
95 The wicked (EM)wait for me to destroy me;
I will diligently consider Your testimonies.
96 I have seen [am]a limit to all perfection;
Your commandment is exceedingly broad.
Mem
97 How I (EN)love Your Law!
It is my (EO)meditation all the day.
98 Your (EP)commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
For they are ever [an]mine.
99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
For Your testimonies are my (EQ)meditation.
100 I understand (ER)more than those who are old,
Because I have (ES)complied with Your precepts.
101 I have (ET)restrained my feet from every evil way,
So that I may keep Your word.
102 I have not (EU)turned aside from Your judgments,
For You Yourself have taught me.
103 How (EV)sweet are Your [ao]words to my [ap]taste!
Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 From Your precepts I (EW)get understanding;
Therefore I (EX)hate every false way.
Nun
105 Your word is a (EY)lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.
106 I have (EZ)sworn and I will confirm it,
That I will keep Your righteous judgments.
107 I am exceedingly (FA)afflicted;
[aq](FB)Revive me, Lord, according to Your word.
108 Be pleased to accept the (FC)[ar]voluntary offerings of my mouth, Lord,
And (FD)teach me Your judgments.
109 My [as](FE)life is continually [at]in my hand,
Yet I do not (FF)forget Your Law.
110 The wicked have (FG)set a [au]trap for me,
Yet I have not (FH)wandered from Your precepts.
111 I have (FI)inherited Your testimonies forever,
For they are the (FJ)joy of my heart.
112 I have (FK)inclined my heart to perform Your statutes
Forever, even (FL)to the end.
Samekh
113 I hate those who are (FM)double-minded,
But I love Your (FN)Law.
114 You 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.
117 Sustain me so that I may be (FV)safe,
That I may (FW)have regard for Your statutes continually.
118 You have [ay]rejected all those (FX)who stray from Your statutes,
For their deceitfulness is [az]useless.
119 You have [ba]removed all the wicked of the earth like [bb](FY)impurities;
Therefore I (FZ)love Your testimonies.
120 My flesh [bc](GA)trembles from the fear of You,
And I am (GB)afraid of Your judgments.
Ayin
121 I have (GC)done justice and righteousness;
Do not leave me to my oppressors.
122 Be (GD)a guarantor for Your servant for good;
Do not let the arrogant (GE)oppress me.
123 My (GF)eyes fail with longing for Your salvation,
And for Your righteous [bd]word.
124 Deal 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.
126 It is time for the Lord to (GK)act,
For they have broken Your Law.
127 Therefore I (GL)love Your commandments
Above gold, yes, above pure gold.
128 Therefore I carefully follow all Your (GM)precepts concerning everything,
I (GN)hate every false way.
Pe
129 Your testimonies are (GO)wonderful;
Therefore my soul (GP)complies with them.
130 The (GQ)unfolding of Your words gives light;
It gives (GR)understanding to the simple.
131 I (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.
133 Establish 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.
136 My 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.
138 You have commanded Your testimonies in (HE)righteousness
And great (HF)faithfulness.
139 My (HG)zeal has [bh]consumed me,
Because my enemies have forgotten Your words.
140 Your (HH)word is very [bi]pure,
Therefore Your servant (HI)loves it.
141 I am small and (HJ)despised,
Yet I do not (HK)forget Your precepts.
142 Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And (HL)Your Law is truth.
143 Trouble and anguish have [bj]come upon me,
Yet Your commandments are my (HM)delight.
144 Your (HN)testimonies are righteous forever;
(HO)Give me understanding that I may live.
Qoph
145 I cried out (HP)with all my heart; answer me, Lord!
I will (HQ)comply with Your statutes.
146 I cried to You; (HR)save me
And I shall keep Your testimonies.
147 I [bk](HS)rise before dawn and cry for help;
I [bl]wait for Your words.
148 My eyes anticipate the (HT)night watches,
So that I may (HU)meditate on Your [bm]word.
149 Hear my voice (HV)according to Your faithfulness;
(HW)Revive me, Lord, according to Your judgments.
150 Those who follow after wickedness approach;
They are far from Your Law.
151 You are (HX)near, Lord,
And all Your commandments are (HY)truth.
152 From 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.
155 Salvation 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.
157 Many are my (IJ)persecutors and my enemies,
Yet I do not (IK)turn aside from Your testimonies.
158 I see the (IL)treacherous and (IM)loathe them,
Because they do not keep Your word.
159 Consider how I (IN)love Your precepts;
(IO)Revive me, Lord, according to Your faithfulness.
160 The (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.
162 I (IU)rejoice at Your [bp]word,
Like one who (IV)finds great plunder.
163 I (IW)hate and loathe falsehood,
But I (IX)love Your Law.
164 Seven times a day I praise You
Because of Your (IY)righteous judgments.
165 Those who love Your Law have (IZ)great peace,
And [bq](JA)nothing causes them to stumble.
166 I (JB)hope for Your salvation, Lord,
And do Your commandments.
167 My (JC)soul keeps Your testimonies,
And I (JD)love them exceedingly.
168 I (JE)keep Your precepts and Your testimonies,
For all my (JF)ways are before You.
Tav
169 Let my (JG)cry [br]come before You, Lord;
(JH)Give me understanding (JI)according to Your word.
170 Let my (JJ)pleading come before You;
(JK)Save me according to Your [bs]word.
171 Let my (JL)lips pour out praise,
For You (JM)teach me Your statutes.
172 Let my (JN)tongue sing about Your [bt]word,
For all Your (JO)commandments are righteousness.
173 Let Your (JP)hand be [bu]ready to help me,
For I have (JQ)chosen Your precepts.
174 I (JR)long for Your salvation, Lord,
And Your Law is my (JS)delight.
175 Let my (JT)soul live that it may praise You,
And let Your ordinances help me.
176 I 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
New International Version
Psalm 119[a]
א Aleph
1 Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,(A)
who walk(B) according to the law of the Lord.(C)
2 Blessed(D) are those who keep his statutes(E)
and seek him(F) with all their heart—(G)
3 they do no wrong(H)
but follow his ways.(I)
4 You have laid down precepts(J)
that are to be fully obeyed.(K)
5 Oh, that my ways were steadfast
in obeying your decrees!(L)
6 Then I would not be put to shame(M)
when I consider all your commands.(N)
7 I will praise you with an upright heart
as I learn your righteous laws.(O)
8 I will obey your decrees;
do not utterly forsake me.(P)
ב Beth
9 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
- 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
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