Psalms 19:7

Authorized King James Version

The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תּ֘וֹרַ֤ת
The law
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
#2
יְהוָ֥ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
תְּ֭מִימָה
is perfect
entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth
#4
מְשִׁ֣יבַת
converting
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#5
נָ֑פֶשׁ
the soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#6
עֵד֥וּת
the testimony
testimony
#7
יְהוָ֥ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
נֶ֝אֱמָנָ֗ה
is sure
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
#9
מַחְכִּ֥ימַת
making wise
to be wise (in mind, word or act)
#10
פֶּֽתִי׃
the simple
silly (i.e., seducible)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection