Psalms 119:136

Authorized King James Version

Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פַּלְגֵי
H6388
Rivers
a rill (i.e., small channel of water, as in irrigation)
#2
מַ֭יִם
H4325
of waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#3
יָרְד֣וּ
H3381
run down
to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau
#4
עֵינָ֑י
H5869
mine eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#5
עַ֝֗ל
H5921
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
לֹא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
שָׁמְר֥וּ
H8104
because they keep
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#8
תוֹרָתֶֽךָ׃
H8451
not thy law
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection