Psalms 119:26

Authorized King James Version

I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes.

Word-by-Word Analysis

דְּרָכַ֣י

H1870

my ways

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

סִ֭פַּרְתִּי

H5608

I have declared

properly, to score with a mark as a tally or record, i.e., (by implication) to inscribe, and also to enumerate; intensively, to recount, i.e., celebra

וַֽתַּעֲנֵ֗נִי

H6030

and thou heardest

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,

לַמְּדֵ֥נִי

H3925

me teach

properly, to goad, i.e., (by implication) to teach (the rod being an middle eastern incentive)

חֻקֶּֽיךָ׃

H2706

me thy statutes

an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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 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?
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?