Psalms 119:138
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 119:138
138 Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful.
Chapter Context
Psalms 119 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, discipleship, 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 119:138
138 Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful.
Analysis
Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded (edot, עֵדוֹת)—God's testimonies are His covenant stipulations, the authoritative witness to His will. Are righteous and very faithful (צֶדֶק וֶאֱמוּנָה מְאֹד, tsedeq ve-emunah meod)—The pairing of righteousness (tsedeq) and faithfulness (emunah) describes God's Word as both morally perfect and utterly reliable.
Scripture's dual character—righteous in content, faithful in execution—means it can be trusted completely. Jesus declared, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away" (Matthew 24:35). The very (exceedingly) emphasizes the superlative nature of God's self-revelation through His commandments.
Historical Context
In ancient Near Eastern covenants, the 'testimonies' were the treaty stipulations inscribed on tablets. Israel's Torah functioned similarly—God's covenant faithfulness was encoded in His laws, which testified to His unchanging character and purposes.
Reflection
- In what ways have you experienced God's Word as both 'righteous' (perfectly right) and 'faithful' (utterly reliable)?
- How does the absolute trustworthiness of Scripture shape your response to cultural challenges to biblical authority?
Word Studies
- Faith: אֱמוּנָה (Emunah) H530 - Faithfulness, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: Psalms 119:86
- Righteousness: Psalms 119:144