Psalms 119:32
I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.
Original Language Analysis
דֶּֽרֶךְ
the way
H1870
דֶּֽרֶךְ
the way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
1 of 6
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
מִצְוֹתֶ֥יךָ
of thy commandments
H4687
מִצְוֹתֶ֥יךָ
of thy commandments
Strong's:
H4687
Word #:
2 of 6
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)
כִּ֖י
H3588
כִּ֖י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
4 of 6
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Cross References
1 Kings 4:29And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.Hebrews 12:1Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,2 Corinthians 6:11O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.2 Corinthians 3:17Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.Isaiah 61:1The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;Psalms 18:36Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.Psalms 119:45And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts.John 8:32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.John 8:36If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.1 Peter 2:16As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
Historical Context
Ancient athletes ran with purpose and training. The image would resonate with Greek games familiar to diaspora Jews, though the psalmist runs for God's glory, not human applause. The metaphor assumes commandments can feel burdensome (small heart) but become liberating when God expands capacity for loving obedience.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you experience God's commandments as a burden to trudge through or a path to run down with joy—what does this reveal about your heart's capacity?
- How has God specifically 'enlarged your heart' to delight in commands you once found restrictive or burdensome?
- What spiritual disciplines might God use to expand your heart's capacity for joyful obedience (meditation on Scripture, prayer, fasting, community)?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
I will run the way of thy commandments (דֶּֽרֶךְ־מִצְוֺתֶיךָ אָרוּץ)—Ruts (to run) replaces the earlier clinging and choosing with athletic vigor. The derek (way) of God's mitzvot (commandments) is not a trudging obligation but a race run with joy and energy. This anticipates Paul's metaphor of running the race (1 Corinthians 9:24). When thou shalt enlarge my heart (כִּי תַרְחִיב לִבִּי)—Rachab (to enlarge, make wide) describes expanding capacity. The lev (heart)—center of mind, will, and affections—must be supernaturally expanded to delight in God's commands.
The causal connection is crucial: running happens 'when' (כִּי, ki) God enlarges the heart. This is the New Covenant promise: "I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts" (Jeremiah 31:33). Apart from divine heart-expansion, commandments feel restrictive. With enlarged hearts, they become the joyful path we sprint down. This is sanctification: God changing our affections so obedience becomes delight, not duty.