Psalms 119:107
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 119:107
107 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word.
Chapter Context
Psalms 119 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, wisdom, redemption. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-176: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 119:107
107 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word.
Analysis
I am afflicted very much (נַעֲנֵיתִי עַד־מְאֹד, na'aneiti ad-me'od)—the verb anah means to be bowed down, humbled, or oppressed. Despite this crushing affliction, the psalmist's plea is not for relief but for spiritual vitality: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word (חַיֵּנִי יְהוָה כִּדְבָרֶךָ, chayyeni YHWH kidvarekha). The verb chayah means to make alive, revive, preserve life—occurring ten times in Psalm 119.
This petition reveals profound theology: affliction drives us to seek life-giving power from God's word, not merely escape from suffering. The psalmist prays for resurrection life in the midst of death-like circumstances. Paul echoes this in 2 Corinthians 4:8-10, where affliction produces spiritual life. True revival comes not from changed circumstances but from God's quickening according to His promises.
Historical Context
Affliction was common in Israel's history—persecution, exile, opposition. The psalmist's focus on being 'quickened' rather than merely rescued reflects the theology of the exile, where physical deliverance seemed impossible but spiritual vitality remained accessible through God's word.
Reflection
- When afflicted, do you primarily seek relief from suffering or spiritual quickening through God's word?
- How has severe affliction in your life driven you deeper into Scripture rather than away from God?
- What does it mean practically to ask God to 'quicken' you according to His word today?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 34:19, 143:11
- Word: Psalms 119:25
- Parallel theme: Psalms 119:88