Psalms 119:126
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 119:126
126 It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law.
Chapter Context
Psalms 119 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, holiness, 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 119:126
126 It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law.
Analysis
It is time for thee, LORD, to work (עֵת לַעֲשׂוֹת לַיהוָה, et la'asot l'YHWH)—A bold declaration that divine intervention is overdue. The construction can mean 'time for YHWH to act' or 'time to act for YHWH's sake.' Either reading calls for God to vindicate His own name and covenant.
They have made void thy law (הֵפֵרוּ תוֹרָתֶךָ, heferu toratekha)—The verb parar means to break, frustrate, nullify. God's torah (instruction/law) is being systematically violated. When lawlessness abounds (Matt 24:12), God's people cry for His intervention. Jesus cleansed the temple with similar outrage (John 2:17).
Historical Context
This verse may reflect periods when Israel's leaders ignored or actively suppressed God's law—during wicked kings' reigns (Manasseh), or when Ezra discovered the law had been forgotten (Neh 8). The Maccabean period also saw systematic attempts to abolish Torah observance.
Reflection
- In an age when God's law is increasingly 'made void' in society, how should believers cry out for divine intervention?
- Does this verse justify righteous anger when God's Word is violated and mocked?
- How do you discern when to patiently endure wickedness versus boldly calling for God to act?
Word Studies
- Law: תּוֹרָה (Torah) H8451 - Law, instruction
Cross-References
- Word: Jeremiah 8:8, Habakkuk 1:4, Malachi 2:8, Matthew 15:6