“A Meditation of God’s Perfect Word” Lesson 21: Psalm 119

Introduction to Psalm 119 Psalm 119 contains 176 lines or verses arranged in 22 stanzas of 8 verses each. Psalm 119 is Alphabetic/Acrostic –Each eight-verse stanza of Psalm 119 begins with the succeeding letter of the Hebrew alphabet. –Each of the other seven verses in a stanza also begins with that same letter In this Psalm, all of the letters of the Hebrew alphabet combine in perfect form in order to praise the perfect Word of Lord.

Introduction to Psalm 119 In English, the effect would be something like this: A blessing is on them that are undefiled in the way and walk in the law of Jehovah; A blessing is on them that keep his testimonies, and seek him with their whole heart; Also on them that do no wickedness, but walk in his ways. A law hast thou given unto us, that we should diligently keep thy commandments. Ah! Lord, that my ways were made so direct that I might keep thy statutes! And then shall I not be confounded. While I have respect unto all thy commandments. As for me, I will thank thee with an unfeigned heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. An eye will I have unto thy ceremonies, O forsake me not utterly.

Photo of Psalm 119:59-64 from the Dead Sea Scrolls Jehovah's name is in the ancient Hebrew script while the rest of the text is in a more modern Hebrew that was used at the time. Note that each line begins with the Hebrew letter "Heth" denoting its part in the acrostic of Psalm 119.

Introduction to Psalm 119 Nearly every verse in this Psalm refers to God’s word, either specifically or by use of a synonym. The Law – broad expression of God’s will for man Testimonies – God’s righteous witness Judgments – pronouncements of right and wrong Statutes – particular laws Ordinances – ordained regulations, authoritative orders Precepts – principles intended as general rules of action or conduct Commandments – orders given by one in authority Promise – a declaration related to future intentions Way or ways – that which leads in a given direction or a course of action

Outline of Psalm 119 Aleph (1-8) – God’s word blesses those who keep it. Desire to keep it! Beth (9-16) – Heeding God’s word is the key to living a clean life. Gimel (17-24) – A prayer to understand God’s delightful word. Daleth (25-32) – A prayer to be revived and empowered by God’s word. Heh (33-40) – The keeping of God’s word is life’s first priority. Waw (41-48) – Trusting God’s word holds hope of salvation and vindication.

Outline of Psalm 119 Zayin (49-56) – God’s word gives comfort. Heth (57-64) – Dedication and determination to keeping God’s word. Teth (65-72) – The blessing of being disciplined by God’s word. Yod (73-80) – Those who fear the Lord turn to one who keeps God’s word. Kaph (81-88) – Search God’s word for strength to endure persecution. Lamed (89-96) – God’s eternal word is trusted forever by His servants. Mem (97-104) – God’s word provides superior wisdom and moral understanding.

Outline of Psalm 119 Nun ( ) – God’s word is a light in dark places. Samek ( ) – God’s word demands single- minded devotion; God rejects the double-minded. Ayin ( ) – A plea for God to preserve and protect one who has kept His word. Peh ( ) – God’s word gives light and understanding; it should be desired and kept! Tsadde ( ) – God’s word is everlastingly true and righteous. Qoph ( ) – Great desire for God’s great word.

Outline of Psalm 119 Resh ( ) – A plea to be revived by God’s word. Shin ( ) – God’s law should be loved. Tau ( ) – Man’s words should plead for, praise and proclaim God’s word.