Psalm 19:8
New International Version
The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

New Living Translation
The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living.

English Standard Version
the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;

Berean Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

King James Bible
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

New King James Version
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;

New American Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

NASB 1995
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

NASB 1977
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Legacy Standard Bible
The precepts of Yahweh are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of Yahweh is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Amplified Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Christian Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, making the heart glad; the command of the LORD is radiant, making the eyes light up.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, making the heart glad; the command of the LORD is radiant, making the eyes light up.

American Standard Version
The precepts of Jehovah are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Contemporary English Version
The LORD's instruction is right; it makes our hearts glad. His commands shine brightly, and they give us light.

English Revised Version
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The instructions of the LORD are correct. They make the heart rejoice. The command of the LORD is radiant. It makes the eyes shine.

Good News Translation
The laws of the LORD are right, and those who obey them are happy. The commands of the LORD are just and give understanding to the mind.

International Standard Version
The precepts of the LORD are upright, making the heart rejoice. The commandment of the LORD is pure, giving light to the eyes.

Majority Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

NET Bible
The LORD's precepts are fair and make one joyful. The LORD's commands are pure and give insight for life.

New Heart English Bible
The LORD's precepts are right, rejoicing the heart. The LORD's commandment is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Webster's Bible Translation
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

World English Bible
Yahweh’s precepts are right, rejoicing the heart. Yahweh’s commandment is pure, enlightening the eyes.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
The precepts of YHWH [are] upright, "" Rejoicing the heart, "" The command of YHWH [is] pure, enlightening the eyes,

Young's Literal Translation
The precepts of Jehovah are upright, Rejoicing the heart, The command of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes,

Smith's Literal Translation
The mandates of Jehovah are straight, rejoicing the heart: the command of Jehovah pure, enlightening the eyes.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The justices of the Lord are right, rejoicing hearts: the commandment of the Lord is lightsome, enlightening the eyes.

Catholic Public Domain Version
The justice of the Lord is right, rejoicing hearts. The precepts of the Lord are brilliant, enlightening the eyes.

New American Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart. The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.

New Revised Standard Version
the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eyes;
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
The commandments of LORD JEHOVAH are right and give joy to the heart; the commandment of LORD JEHOVAH is precious and makes the eyes shine.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
The ordinances of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is bright, enlightening the eyes.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Heavens Declare the Glory of God
7The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. 9The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true, being altogether righteous.…

Cross References
James 1:25
But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does.

Romans 7:12
So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good.

Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Proverbs 6:23
For this commandment is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way to life,

2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, / so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Psalm 119:130
The unfolding of Your words gives light; it informs the simple.

Matthew 5:18
For I tell you truly, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.

Psalm 119:9
How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.

John 17:17
Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.

Psalm 119:14-16
I rejoice in the way of Your testimonies as much as in all riches. / I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways. / I will delight in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.

Psalm 119:97-100
Oh, how I love Your law! All day long it is my meditation. / Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, for they are always with me. / I have more insight than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation. ...

Psalm 119:111
Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart.

Psalm 119:72
The law from Your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.

Psalm 119:127
Therefore I love Your commandments more than gold, even the purest gold.


Treasury of Scripture

The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

statutes

Psalm 105:45
That they might observe his statutes, and keep his laws. Praise ye the LORD.

Psalm 119:12,16,80,171
Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes…

Genesis 26:5
Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.

right

Psalm 119:128
Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.

Nehemiah 9:13
Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments:

rejoicing

Psalm 40:8
I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

Psalm 119:14,24,54,92,121,143
I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches…

Deuteronomy 12:11,12
Then there shall be a place which the LORD your God shall choose to cause his name to dwell there; thither shall ye bring all that I command you; your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, your tithes, and the heave offering of your hand, and all your choice vows which ye vow unto the LORD: …

is pure

Psalm 12:6
The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

Psalm 119:40
Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness.

Proverbs 30:5
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

enlightening

Psalm 13:3
Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;

Psalm 119:98-100,105,130
Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me…

Proverbs 2:6
For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

Jump to Previous
Command Commandment Commands Enlightening Eyes Glad Heart Holy Joy Light Making Orders Precepts Pure Radiant Rejoicing Right Rule Statutes Upright
Jump to Next
Command Commandment Commands Enlightening Eyes Glad Heart Holy Joy Light Making Orders Precepts Pure Radiant Rejoicing Right Rule Statutes Upright
Psalm 19
1. The creatures show God's glory
7. The excellence of the divine law
12. David prays for grace














The precepts of the LORD
The term "precepts" in Hebrew is "piqqudim," which refers to mandates or instructions given by God. These are not mere suggestions but authoritative guidelines meant to direct the lives of believers. In the context of ancient Israel, these precepts were part of the covenantal relationship between God and His people, serving as a moral and spiritual compass. The use of "LORD" in all caps signifies the divine name YHWH, emphasizing God's eternal and unchanging nature. This highlights the divine origin and authority of these precepts, underscoring their importance and reliability.

are right
The Hebrew word for "right" is "yashar," which conveys the idea of being straight, level, or upright. This suggests that God's precepts are not only morally correct but also align with the ultimate truth and reality. In a world filled with moral ambiguity, the precepts of the LORD provide a clear and unwavering standard. Historically, this would have been a source of comfort and guidance for the Israelites, assuring them that following God's ways leads to righteousness and justice.

bringing joy to the heart
The phrase "bringing joy to the heart" speaks to the profound emotional and spiritual impact of living in accordance with God's precepts. The Hebrew word for "joy" is "simchah," which denotes a deep, abiding gladness. This joy is not superficial or fleeting but is rooted in the assurance and peace that come from aligning one's life with God's will. Throughout scripture, joy is often associated with God's presence and favor, suggesting that obedience to His precepts leads to a fulfilling and joyful life.

The commandments of the LORD
"Commandments" in Hebrew is "mitzvot," which refers to the specific laws and decrees given by God. These commandments are expressions of God's will and character, providing a framework for holy living. The repetition of "LORD" reinforces the divine authority behind these commandments, reminding believers of their sacred obligation to follow them. In the historical context of the Bible, these commandments were central to the identity and practice of the Israelite community, shaping their relationship with God and each other.

are radiant
The word "radiant" translates from the Hebrew "bar," which can mean pure, clear, or bright. This suggests that God's commandments illuminate the path of righteousness, dispelling darkness and confusion. The imagery of light is frequently used in scripture to represent truth, guidance, and revelation. Just as light enables us to see clearly, God's commandments provide clarity and understanding, helping believers navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and discernment.

giving light to the eyes
This phrase emphasizes the enlightening effect of God's commandments. The "eyes" symbolize perception and insight, and the "light" they receive from God's commandments enables believers to see and understand spiritual truths. In the ancient world, light was a powerful metaphor for knowledge and divine revelation. By following God's commandments, believers gain spiritual insight and discernment, allowing them to live wisely and in accordance with God's will. This illumination is a gift from God, guiding His people toward a life of righteousness and blessing.

(8) Right.--Here in its original sense of "straight," or direct. A fine moral insight suggested this touch. The road of duty, when plain and unmistakable, inspires a sense of gladness, even if it be difficult and dangerous.

"Stern Lawgiver, yet thou dost wear

The Godhead's most benignant grace;

Nor know we anything so fair

As is the smile upon thy face.

Flowers laugh before thee on their beds,

And fragrance in thy footing treads."

WORDSWORTH'S Ode to Duty.

'Enlightening the eyes.--Not here as in Psalm 13:3 (see Note) physically, but morally (comp. Psalm 119:105); the whole nature of one who lives in the light of truth is illuminated. . . .

Verse 8. - The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; rather, the precepts of the Lord are right. Another of the many synonyms under which the Law may be spoken of (see Dr. Kay's preface to the hundred and nineteenth psalm). God's precepts "rejoice the heart" of the godly. They are not felt as stern commands, but as gracious intimations of what God desires man to do for his own good. The commandment of the Lord is pure; i.e. spotless, clean, without fault (comp. ver. 7, "The Law of the Lord is perfect"). Enlightening the eyes; i.e. giving light to the intellect.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
The precepts
פִּקּ֘וּדֵ֤י (piq·qū·ḏê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 6490: Appointed, a mandate

of the LORD
יְהוָ֣ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

are right,
יְ֭שָׁרִים (yə·šā·rîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 3477: Straight, right

bringing joy
מְשַׂמְּחֵי־ (mə·śam·mə·ḥê-)
Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine plural construct
Strong's 8055: To brighten up, be, blithe, gleesome

to the heart;
לֵ֑ב (lêḇ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3820: The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre

the commandments
מִצְוַ֥ת (miṣ·waṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 4687: Commandment

of the LORD
יְהוָ֥ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

are radiant,
בָּ֝רָ֗ה (bā·rāh)
Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 1249: Beloved, pure, empty

giving light
מְאִירַ֥ת (mə·’î·raṯ)
Verb - Hifil - Participle - feminine singular construct
Strong's 215: To be or become light

to the eyes.
עֵינָֽיִם׃ (‘ê·nā·yim)
Noun - cd
Strong's 5869: An eye, a fountain


Links
Psalm 19:8 NIV
Psalm 19:8 NLT
Psalm 19:8 ESV
Psalm 19:8 NASB
Psalm 19:8 KJV

Psalm 19:8 BibleApps.com
Psalm 19:8 Biblia Paralela
Psalm 19:8 Chinese Bible
Psalm 19:8 French Bible
Psalm 19:8 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Psalm 19:8 Yahweh's precepts are right rejoicing the heart (Psalm Ps Psa.)
Psalm 19:7
Top of Page
Top of Page