Psalms 119:172

My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.

Word-by-Word Analysis

תַּ֣עַן

H6030

shall speak

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

לְ֭שׁוֹנִי

H3956

My tongue

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

אִמְרָתֶ֑ךָ

H565

of thy word

an utterance

כִּ֖י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

כָל

H3605

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

מִצְוֹתֶ֣יךָ

H4687

for all thy commandments

a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

צֶּֽדֶק׃

H6664

are righteousness

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

In what ways does understanding righteousness in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?