Psalms 119:162
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 119:162
162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.
Chapter Context
Psalms 119 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, fellowship, wisdom. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 119:162
162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.
Analysis
I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil (שָׂשׂ אָנֹכִי עַל־אִמְרָתֶךָ כְּמוֹצֵא שָׁלָל רָב, sas anokhi al-imratekha kemotzeh shalal rav)—Sus means 'exult, rejoice, be glad.' Shalal is battle plunder, war spoil, the victor's bounty. Rav intensifies: 'abundant, great, much.' The psalmist's joy over imrah (word, utterance, promise) matches a warrior's elation over rich battlefield plunder.
This echoes Jeremiah 15:16: 'Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart.' Jesus embodies this in His wilderness temptation, valuing God's Word above bread (Matthew 4:4).
Historical Context
Ancient warfare made spoil a primary economic motivation (Judges 5:30; 1 Samuel 30:16). The comparison isn't about greed but about unexpected treasure after costly battle. The psalmist has fought to maintain Word-loyalty (v. 161); now he discovers the Word itself as his reward—more valuable than all material gain.
Reflection
- What would it look like practically to rejoice over Scripture as though you'd found 'great spoil' after battle?
- How does comparing God's Word to battle plunder challenge consumeristic or merely sentimental views of Bible reading?
- In what ways is the joy of discovering truth in Scripture similar to unexpected treasure after costly struggle?
Cross-References
- Word: Psalms 119:72, Jeremiah 15:16
- Parallel theme: Psalms 119:111, 1 Samuel 30:16, Isaiah 9:3