The testimonies You have laid down
This phrase refers to the divine laws and decrees given by God, often seen as a reflection of His character and will. In the context of the Old Testament, "testimonies" can be understood as the covenantal stipulations given to Israel, such as those found in the Torah. These laws were not merely legal requirements but were intended to guide the Israelites in living a life that was pleasing to God. The use of "laid down" suggests a sense of permanence and authority, indicating that these testimonies are not subject to change or human alteration. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's word being eternal and unchanging, as seen in passages like Isaiah 40:8, which states, "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever."

are righteous
The righteousness of God's testimonies underscores their moral perfection and justice. In the biblical context, righteousness is often associated with God's nature and His actions. The laws and decrees given by God are a reflection of His righteous character, and they serve as a standard for human conduct. This righteousness is not merely legalistic but is deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people. The concept of righteousness is central to the biblical narrative, as seen in passages like Psalm 19:9, which declares, "The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether."

and altogether faithful
This phrase emphasizes the reliability and trustworthiness of God's testimonies. The faithfulness of God's word is a recurring theme in Scripture, highlighting that what God has spoken will surely come to pass. This faithfulness is not only about the accuracy of God's promises but also about His unwavering commitment to His covenant people. The idea of God's faithfulness is echoed in Lamentations 3:22-23, which states, "The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of God's faithful promises, as He embodies the truth and reliability of God's word (John 1:14, Revelation 19:11).

1. Psalmist
The author of Psalm 119, traditionally believed to be King David, who expresses a deep love and reverence for God's law.

2. God
The divine author of the testimonies, whose righteousness and faithfulness are extolled by the psalmist.

3. Israel
The nation to whom the testimonies were originally given, serving as a context for understanding the importance of God's laws.

4. The Law
Refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain God's commandments and instructions.

5. The Temple
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the Temple in Jerusalem is a central place of worship and adherence to God's testimonies.The Righteousness of God's Word
God's testimonies are inherently righteous, reflecting His perfect nature. As believers, we are called to trust and uphold these righteous standards in our lives.

The Faithfulness of God's Testimonies
The faithfulness of God's word assures us that His promises and commands are reliable. We can depend on His guidance in every aspect of life.

Living by God's Standards
As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to align our lives with God's righteous testimonies, allowing them to shape our character and decisions.

The Role of Scripture in Spiritual Growth
Engaging with God's word is essential for spiritual maturity. It equips us for every good work and helps us discern truth from falsehood.

The Eternal Nature of God's Word
God's testimonies are not only relevant for the past but remain applicable today. They provide a foundation for living a life that honors God.(138) Thy testimonies.--Better, Thou hast commanded Thy testimonies in righteousness and very faithfulness. But unquestionably another arrangement of the text of these two verses is correct. It takes the verb commandest with Psalm 119:137, and gets the simple and obvious "righteous art Thou, O Lord, and upright in the judgments which Thou hast commanded. Thy testimonies are righteous, and faithful to the uttermost" (Burgess). (See Psalm 7:6 and Psalm 119:144.)

Verse 138. - Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful; literally, righteousness and very faithfulness (see the Revised Version). "Harsh and severe as thy testimonies may seem, they are all thoroughly for man's highest good" (Kay).

Parallel Commentaries ...


The testimonies
עֵדֹתֶ֑יךָ (‘ê·ḏō·ṯe·ḵā)
Noun - feminine plural construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 5713: Testimony, witness

You have laid down
צִ֭וִּיתָ (ṣiw·wî·ṯā)
Verb - Piel - Perfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 6680: To lay charge (upon), give charge (to), command, order

are righteous
צֶ֣דֶק (ṣe·ḏeq)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 6664: The right, equity, prosperity

and altogether
מְאֹֽד׃ (mə·’ōḏ)
Adverb
Strong's 3966: Vehemence, vehemently, wholly, speedily

faithful.
וֶֽאֱמוּנָ֥ה (we·’ĕ·mū·nāh)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 530: Firmness, steadfastness, fidelity


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OT Poetry: Psalm 119:138 You have commanded your statutes in righteousness (Psalm Ps Psa.)