Psalms 119:66

Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ט֤וּב

H2898

me good

good (as a noun), in the widest sense, especially goodness (superlative concretely, the best), beauty, gladness, welfare

טַ֣עַם

H2940

judgment

properly, a taste, i.e., (figuratively) perception; by implication, intelligence; transitively, a mandate

וָדַ֣עַת

H1847

and knowledge

knowledge

לַמְּדֵ֑נִי

H3925

Teach

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

כִּ֖י

H3588

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

בְמִצְוֹתֶ֣יךָ

H4687

thy commandments

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

הֶאֱמָֽנְתִּי׃

H539

for I have believed

properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?