Psalms Chapter 119 · Verse 140
Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it.
Original Language Analysis
צְרוּפָ֖ה
pure
H6884
צְרוּפָ֖ה
pure
Strong's:
H6884
Word #:
1 of 5
to fuse (metal), i.e., refine (literally or figuratively)
מְאֹ֗ד
is very
H3966
מְאֹ֗ד
is very
Strong's:
H3966
Word #:
3 of 5
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or
Cross References
Proverbs 30:5Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.Psalms 12:6The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.Psalms 19:8The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.2 Peter 1:21For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.Psalms 119:128Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.Psalms 18:30As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.Romans 7:12Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.Romans 7:22For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:1 Peter 2:2As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:Romans 7:16If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern servants required training to serve masters well—learning household customs, master's preferences, proper protocols. Israel as YHWH's servant nation needed instruction in covenant stipulations to fulfill their calling (Exodus 19:5-6). Prophets and kings served as God's servants with special responsibilities (Moses: Numbers 12:7, David: 2 Samuel 7:5, prophets: Amos 3:7). The ideal Servant of Isaiah 40-55 would perfectly know and obey God's will. Jesus fulfilled this role (Philippians 2:5-11), and believers now serve as His servants (Romans 1:1, James 1:1), requiring Spirit-given understanding of God's will (Colossians 1:9-10).
Questions for Reflection
- How does identifying primarily as God's servant reshape your approach to Scripture study?
- What is the connection between submitted will ("I am your servant") and spiritual understanding?
- In what areas do you need divine understanding to better know and obey God's testimonies?
Analysis & Commentary
"I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies." The declaration avdekha ani (your servant I am) expresses covenant relationship and submitted will. Eved (servant/slave) indicates one who belongs to and obeys a master. This identity grounds the request: havineni ve'ed'ah edotekha (give me understanding that I may know your testimonies). Bin (understand/discern) means to perceive with insight, distinguish, comprehend deeply—not merely intellectual knowledge but penetrating understanding. Yada (know) similarly indicates experiential, relational knowledge, not just factual awareness. The servant seeks understanding to truly know (yada) God's edot (testimonies). This prayer acknowledges that covenant relationship requires divinely given understanding—servants need master's instruction to serve effectively.