Psalms 119:129
Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 6
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כֵּ֝֗ן
H3651
כֵּ֝֗ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
Historical Context
The Pe stanza emphasizes God's Word as source of wonder, light, and understanding. In ancient Israel, God's self-revelation through Torah was unparalleled—surrounding nations had myths and superstitions, but Israel had the living God's own words (Deut 4:7-8).
Questions for Reflection
- When was the last time you encountered Scripture with genuine wonder and awe rather than familiarity?
- How does seeing God's testimonies as 'wonderful' (miraculous) change your approach to Bible reading?
- Do you guard God's Word as carefully as you protect your most valuable possessions?
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Analysis & Commentary
Thy testimonies are wonderful (פְּלָאוֹת עֵדְוֹתֶיךָ, pla'ot edvoteiḵa)—Pele means wonder, marvel, miracle—used of God's miraculous acts (Exod 15:11) and mysterious works (Isa 9:6, 'Wonderful Counselor'). God's edot (testimonies, covenant witnesses) are not mundane rules but supernatural revelations that inspire awe.
Therefore doth my soul keep them (עַל־כֵּן נְצָרַתַּם נַפְשִׁי, al-ken netsaratam nafshi)—Wonder produces obedience. Natsar means to guard, watch over, treasure. The soul (nefesh, whole person) guards God's words as precious. This begins the Pe (פ) stanza (vv. 129-136).