Psalms 119:151
Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth.
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָ֑ה
O LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
O LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 6
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
וְֽכָל
H3605
וְֽכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Historical Context
The ancient world's gods were often distant, capricious, and unknowable. YHWH's nearness to Israel—revealed in Torah, manifest in tabernacle/temple presence—was radically distinctive. This accessibility culminated in the Incarnation (Immanuel, God with us).
Questions for Reflection
- How does the nearness of God affect your response to the truthfulness of His commandments?
- In what practical ways do you experience God's nearness through engagement with His Word?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Thou art near, O LORD (קָרוֹב אַתָּה יְהוָה, qarov attah YHWH)—In contrast to the wicked who are far (v. 150), YHWH is near. This is relational proximity, covenant presence. And all thy commandments are truth (וְכָל־מִצְוֹתֶיךָ אֱמֶת, ve-khol mitzvotekha emet)—The totality (all) and certainty (truth) of God's commandments is emphasized. No command is suspect; every one is reliable.
Deuteronomy 4:7 celebrates Israel's uniqueness: "What nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them?" God's nearness is both terror (Psalm 139:7-12) and comfort (Psalm 73:28). Jesus promised, "I am with you alway" (Matthew 28:20). The Spirit indwells believers (1 Corinthians 6:19). Divine nearness and the truthfulness of all Scripture are inseparable—God draws near through His self-revelation in His Word.