Psalms 119:160

Authorized King James Version

Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רֹאשׁ

H7218

from the beginning

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

דְּבָרְךָ֥

H1697

Thy word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

אֱמֶ֑ת

H571

is true

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

וּ֝לְעוֹלָ֗ם

H5769

endureth for ever

properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

מִשְׁפַּ֥ט

H4941

judgments

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

צִדְקֶֽךָ׃

H6664

and every one of thy righteous

the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 119 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?