Psalms 119:126
It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law.
Original Language Analysis
עֵ֭ת
It is time
H6256
עֵ֭ת
It is time
Strong's:
H6256
Word #:
1 of 5
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת
to work
H6213
לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת
to work
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
2 of 5
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
לַיהוָ֑ה
for thee LORD
H3068
לַיהוָ֑ה
for thee LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 5
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Cross References
Jeremiah 8:8How do ye say, We are wise, and the law of the LORD is with us? Lo, certainly in vain made he it; the pen of the scribes is in vain.Matthew 15:6And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.Habakkuk 1:4Therefore the law is slacked, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth.Malachi 2:8But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the LORD of hosts.
Historical Context
This verse may reflect periods when Israel's leaders ignored or actively suppressed God's law—during wicked kings' reigns (Manasseh), or when Ezra discovered the law had been forgotten (Neh 8). The Maccabean period also saw systematic attempts to abolish Torah observance.
Questions for Reflection
- In an age when God's law is increasingly 'made void' in society, how should believers cry out for divine intervention?
- Does this verse justify righteous anger when God's Word is violated and mocked?
- How do you discern when to patiently endure wickedness versus boldly calling for God to act?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
It is time for thee, LORD, to work (עֵת לַעֲשׂוֹת לַיהוָה, et la'asot l'YHWH)—A bold declaration that divine intervention is overdue. The construction can mean 'time for YHWH to act' or 'time to act for YHWH's sake.' Either reading calls for God to vindicate His own name and covenant.
They have made void thy law (הֵפֵרוּ תוֹרָתֶךָ, heferu toratekha)—The verb parar means to break, frustrate, nullify. God's torah (instruction/law) is being systematically violated. When lawlessness abounds (Matt 24:12), God's people cry for His intervention. Jesus cleansed the temple with similar outrage (John 2:17).