Psalms 119:127
Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 6
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כֵּ֭ן
H3651
כֵּ֭ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
אָהַ֣בְתִּי
Therefore I love
H157
אָהַ֣בְתִּי
Therefore I love
Strong's:
H157
Word #:
3 of 6
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
מִצְוֹתֶ֑יךָ
thy commandments
H4687
מִצְוֹתֶ֑יךָ
thy commandments
Strong's:
H4687
Word #:
4 of 6
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)
Cross References
Psalms 19:10More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.Proverbs 16:16How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!Proverbs 8:11For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.
Historical Context
Gold was the ancient world's ultimate measure of wealth and security. Solomon's temple was overlaid with gold; kings hoarded it. Yet the psalmist declares God's commandments surpass even purified gold—a radically counter-cultural value system.
Questions for Reflection
- How does cultural opposition to God's law increase or decrease your love for Scripture?
- What 'gold' in your life competes with your affection for God's commandments?
- Do you love God's law when it costs you something, or only when it's convenient?
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Analysis & Commentary
Therefore I love thy commandments above gold (עַל־כֵּן אָהַבְתִּי מִצְוֹתֶיךָ מִזָּהָב, al-ken ahavti mitzvoteiḵa mi-zahav)—The therefore connects to v. 126: precisely because God's law is violated, the faithful treasure it more. Mitzvot (commandments) become precious when rare. The comparative 'above gold' (mi-zahav) echoes Ps 19:10—God's words are more desirable than finest wealth.
Yea, above fine gold (מִפָּז, mi-paz)—Paz is refined, pure gold. The escalation (gold → fine gold) emphasizes supreme value. While the wicked nullify God's law, the righteous find it priceless.