Psalm 119:1-34

Psalm 119This psalm is an acrostic poem, the stanzas of which begin with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet; moreover, the verses of each stanza begin with the same letter of the Hebrew alphabet. 1א Aleph Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the LORD .

2Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart—

3they do no wrong but follow his ways.

4You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed.

5Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!

6Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands.

7I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws.

8I will obey your decrees; do not utterly forsake me. ב Beth

9How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.

10I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.

11I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

12Praise be to you, LORD ; teach me your decrees.

13With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth.

14I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches.

15I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways.

16I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word. ג Gimel

17Be good to your servant while I live, that I may obey your word.

18Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.

19I am a stranger on earth; do not hide your commands from me.

20My soul is consumed with longing for your laws at all times.

21You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed, those who stray from your commands.

22Remove from me their scorn and contempt, for I keep your statutes.

23Though rulers sit together and slander me, your servant will meditate on your decrees.

24Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors. ד Daleth

25I am laid low in the dust; preserve my life according to your word.

26I gave an account of my ways and you answered me; teach me your decrees.

27Cause me to understand the way of your precepts, that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.

28My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.

29Keep me from deceitful ways; be gracious to me and teach me your law.

30I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I have set my heart on your laws.

31I hold fast to your statutes, LORD ; do not let me be put to shame.

32I run in the path of your commands, for you have broadened my understanding. ה He

33Teach me, LORD, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Or follow it for its reward

34Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart.