Psa 119.1-176 is the longest psalm by far. The author is not named and there is no heading. Many scholars believe it was written by David over a period of time but this cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. If the author is unnamed it is because Yehovah did not feel it was important to name them, so we will not speculate.
This psalm is also arranged in an acrostic form. There are twenty-two letters in the Hebrew Alphabet, and this psalm contains twenty-two sections of eight (number of new beginning) verses each. The first section of eight verses begins with the Hebrew letter “Aleph.” The second section of eight verses begins with the Hebrew letter “Beit.” The psalm proceeds that way until all twenty-two letters are used. This psalm glorifies the Torah and the Mitzvot (commandments), and nearly every verse has a word to describe the Torah like “law” (Torah); “word” (davar or imrah); “judgments” (mishpatim); “testimonies” (edut); “commandments” (mitzvot); “statutes” (chukim); “precepts” (pekudim); “words” (imrataycha) and “ways” (derek).
So, the subject is the Torah and it goes from Aleph to Tav. This alludes to the “beginning and the end” and it means “Head of the Covenant.” Aleph and Tav is also a term for the Messiah. This psalm can also be used in prayer in the following way. You can spell out in Hebrew your need and then pray the appropriate verses. So, as we move through this psalm we will give certain meanings of each letter and touch on each verse.
In this psalm, the author is asking to be saved so he can follow the Torah. God judges on our faith and our desire to follow the Torah, not on our ability to keep every point of it. Faith and desire are inseparable (Deut 10.12-13).
Psa 119.1-8 is the first section called “Aleph” in most Bibles. This letter was symbolized anciently by an ox head, meaning power, strength, leader, first and beginning. The rabbis teach it represents the head, the seat of human intellect. It begins, “How blessed (empowered to succeed) are those whose way (direction in life) is blameless (complete, whole-hearted), who walk in the law (Torah) of Yehovah (the biblical way was to study all the arguments in what is called a pilpul or peppered argument. This led to a discussion on opinions and to diligently search and “wrestle” with the question, and let God lead you, not tell you what to believe like a “crusader”- v 1). How blessed are those who observe his testimonies (edut), who seek him with all their hearts (desires, thoughts-v 2). They do no unrighteousness (deliberate wickedness); they walk in his ways (derek-v 3). Thou hast ordained thy precepts (pekudim), that we should keep them diligently (carefully-v 4). Oh that my ways may be established (directed) to keep thy statutes (chukim-v 5). Then I shall not be ashamed (disgraced) when I look upon all thy commandments (mitzvot-because they tell him what sin is, like Paul said in Rom 3.20-v 6). I shall give thanks to thee with uprightness of heart (sincere), when I learn (study) thy righteous judgments (mishpatim-v 7). I shall keep thy statutes (chukim to the best of my ability), do not forsake me utterly (so that I can do it-v 8).”
Psa 119.9-16 is the section for the letter “Beit” meaning “house or tent” and the ancient symbol looked like a tent. The rabbis say that “Beit” represents “binah” which is the comprehension between good and evil. It begins, “How can a young man keep (cleanse) his way (Eph 5.26; Prov 3.6-stay on the right track)? By keeping it according to thy word (davar or being sincerely dedicated to the Torah-v 9). With all my heart (focused all my attention) I have sought thee; do not let me wander (lose sight of) from thy commandments (mitzvot-v 10). Thy word I have treasured (concealed) in my heart; that I may not sin against thee (by the Torah is the knowledge of sin in Rom 3.20-v 11). Blessed art thou, O Lord, teach me thy statutes (chukim-v 12).. With my lips I have told of (proclaimed) all the ordinances (mishpatim) of thy mouth (v 13). I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies (edut-from the word “edi” meaning “ornament”) as much as in all riches (because the Torah is true riches-v 14). I will meditate (to speak in a low tone, to mutter) on thy precepts (pekudacha) and regard (look at intensely) thy ways (v 15). I shall delight (occupy myself) in thy statutes (chukim); I shall not forget thy word (davar-v 16).”
Psa 119.17-24 is the section for the Hebrew letter “Gimel” meaning “camel, carry or to lift up” which was the ancient symbol. The rabbis teach that gimel is the left leg ready to run to the next letter dalet, meaning “door.” It says, “Deal bountifully (much favor) with thy servant, that I may live (literally “I will live”-Matt 19.17; Deut 30.6, 32.47) and keep thy word (davar-v 17). Open my eyes (to understand), that I may behold (perceive) wonderful (hidden) things from thy law (Torah-v 18). I am a stranger (temporary sojourner) in the earth (physically); do not hide thy commandments (mitzvot) from me (because a traveler needs direction on where to go-v 19). My soul is crushed with longing (intense yearning) after thine ordinances (mishpatim) at all times (to follow the Torah-v 20). Thou dost rebuke the arrogant (proud), the cursed (willful sinner), who wander from thy commandments (mitzvot-their ignorance is a self-inflicted wound-v 21). Take away reproach and contempt from me (of those who scoff), for I observe thy testimonies (edutaycha-he is not a willful sinner-v 22). Even though princes (those in authority) sit and talk against me (for observing the Torah), thy servant meditates (speak in a low tone, mutter) on thy statues (chukim-v 23). Thy testimonies (edutaycha) also are my delight (preoccupation with my emotions), they are my counselors (provides advice when studied-v 24).”
Psa 119.25-32 is the section with the letter “Dalet” meaning “a door, pathway or to enter.” The ancient symbol was a tent door. It begins, “My soul cleaves to the dust (the spiritually depressed); revive me according to thy word (davar-God’s promises-v 25). I have told of my ways (some good, some bad) and thou hast answered me; teach me thy statutes (chukim-the one, true way-v 26). Make me understand (he not only needed the knowledge of the Torah, but also the understanding) the way of your precepts (pekudim-a clear conception), so I will meditate (discuss) on thy wonders (miracles, grace , forgiveness, mercy, redemption-v 27). My soul weeps (melts) because of grief (no relief from trouble); strengthen me (set me right) according to thy word (davar-v 28). Remove from me the false way (false doctrine); and graciously grant me thy law (the truth contained in the Torah-v 29). I have chosen the faithful way (way of faith); I have placed thine ordinances (mishpatim) before me (submitted to them-v 30). I cleave (cling) to thy testimonies (the edut are meant to remind us of eternal truth or events, so we need to have them); O Yehovah, do not put me to shame (for the choice I have made-v 31). I shall run the way of thy commandments (mitzvot-with passion to do them-Psa 119.60), for thou wilt enlarge my heart (of understanding-v 32).”
Psa 119.33-40 is the section for the letter “Hey” meaning “to behold or to reveal.” It had the ancient symbol of arms extended, and it is contained in the name Yehovah. It begins, “Teach me, O Yehovah, the way (derek) of thy statutes (chukim), and I shall observe it to the end (of his life, their ultimate purpose- v 33). Give me understading, that I may observe (literally “guard”) thy law (Torah), and keep it with all my heart (desire, to show Yehovah he loves him-John 14.15-v 34). Make me walk in thy path (lead me on the trail) of thy commandments (mitzvot), for I delight (has desire) in it (v 35). Incline my heart (draw my desire) to thy testimonies (edut) and not to dishonest gain (greed, lust for money-Exo 18.2-v 36). Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity (empty, futile imaginations), and revive me in thy ways (derek-v 37). Establish (set up) thy word (davar) to thy servant, as that which produces reverence for thee (Torah works a proper awe for Yehovah in us-v 38). Turn away my reproach (scorn) which I dread (because his failings were always brought up to disgrace him), for thine ordinances (mispatim) are good (I accept your judgment-v 39). Behold, I long for (yearn) for thy precepts (pekudim), revive me through thy righteousness (in the way of righteousness-v 40).”
Psa 119.41-48 is the section with the letter “Vav” which means “nail, peg, to secure.” Its ancient symbol looked like “Y.” This letter is also a part of God’s name. It says, “May thy lovingkindness also come to me, Lord (Yehovah), thy salvation (full deliverance) according to thy word (davar-v 41). So I shall have an answer for him who reproaches me (attacking him, no saving him), for I trust in thy word (davar- that says he can be sure-v 42). And do not take the word of truth (Torah) utterly out of my mouth (it is his only defense), for I wait (with hope, knowing they will come to pass) for thy ordinances (mishpatim-v 43). So I will keep thy law (Torah) continually (constantly), forever and ever (meaning in this life and in the Olam Haba-v 44). And I will walk at liberty (Torah truth sets us free-John 8.32; Psa 119.160; Jam 1.25, 2.12; 2 Cor 3.17), for I seek thy precepts (Pekudim out of love-v 45). I will also speak of thy testimonies (edut) before kings (who usually don’t want such talk, he is free to be bold), and I shall not be ashamed (because my loyalty is to God-v 46). And I shall delight (be occupied with) in thy commandments (mitzvot), which I love (not burdensome-v 47); and I will lift up my hands (accepting) to thy commandments, which I love (not burdensome); and I will meditate (to speak or mutter in a low tone) on thy statutes (chukim-v 48).”
Psa 119.49-56 is the section for the letter “Zayin” which means “cut off .” The ancient symbol was a weapon, looking like an axe or club. It begins by saying, “Remember the word (davar) to thy servant (God’s promises of salvation and redemption. If this was David, it refers to the word that God would establish his house and kingdom forever) in which thou hast made me hope (hope is a sure thing in Biblical thought-v 49). This is my comfort in my affliction (his firm ground to stand on), that thy word (davar) has revived me (gave him life in the past-v 50). The arrogant deride me (scoffed at his practices) yet I will not turn aside from thy law (Torah-v 51). I have remembered thine ordinances (mishpatim) from of old (a lesson from history on the fate of the wicked and the protection of the righteous) and comfort myself (that it remains the same now-v 52). Burning indignation (zeal) has seized me because of the wicked who forsake thy law (Torah- he wants to rebuke them because they are headed for ruin-v 53). Thy statutes (chukim) are my songs (music to his ears) in the house of my pilgrimage (his body in this present age, or Olam Ha Zeh-v 54). I have remembered your name, O Yehovah, in the night (when fear and anxiety can strike) and keep thy law (Torah-v 55). This has become mine (this comfortable feeling) because I observe (keep, cheerish) thy precepts (pekude-v 56).
Psa 119.57-64 is the next letter “Chet” meaning “fence, divided, to reveal.” Its ancient symbol was a fence. It says, “The Lord (Yehovah) is my portion (allotted share-some chose wealth and property, etc); I have promised to keep thy words (davar or his commandments-v 57). I entreated (pleaded) thy favor with all my heart; be gracious (merciful) to me according to thy word (davar, the promises-v 58). I considered my ways (what they were), and turned my feet to thy testimonies (edut-v 59). I hastened and did not delay to keep thy commandments (mitzvot-v 60). The cords (bonds) of the wicked have encircled me (robbed, plundered), but I have not forgotten thy law (Torah-they can’t take that-v 61). At midnight (the depth of night) I shall arise to give thanks to thee because of thy righteous judgments (mishpatim-not only because they are appreciated, but he may be accepting the painful judgments God has measured to him-v 62). I am a companion (friend) of all those who fear thee, and of those who keep thy precepts (pekudim-v 63). The earth is full of thy lovingkindness, Yehovah; teach me thy statutes (chukim- as an example of your kindness and spiritual blessings-v 64).”
Psa 119.65-72 is the next letter “Tet” and it means a “snake or surround.” Its ancient symbol was a snake basket. It says, “Thou hast dealt well (did good) with thy servant, Yehovah, according to thy word (davar-he restored his throne if this was written by David after his enemies drove him out (v 65). Teach me good discernment (judgment) and knowledge (Da’at-so he can distinguish between good and evil, the facts of Torah), for I believe in thy commandments (mitzvot will keep him out of error-v 66). Before I was afflicted (humbled) I went astray, but now (after the pain) I keep thy word (davar-he learned the answer-Hos 5.15-v 67). Thou art good and doest good (even when he chastises his people); teach me thy statutes (chukim-which the wicked say has no value-v 68). The arrogant (proud) forged a lie against me (attached lies to me); with all my heart I will observe thy precepts (pekude-despite the lies-v 69). Their heart is covered with fat (a barrier, mental block, oblivious to the truth-Lev 3.4, 7.23), but I delight (preoccupied with) is thy law (Torah-v 70). It is good for me (a benefit) that I was afflicted, that I may learn thy statutes (chukim that he may have never learned-v 71). The law (Torah) of thy mouth is better (preferred) to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces (Deut 17.17-19 says the king was to have a personal Torah scroll with him, not multiply gold and silver to himself-v 72). “
Psa 119.73-80 is the letter “Yod” and it means “hand, make, my.” Its ancient symbol was an arm and a hand. It also was a part of the name of God (Yehovah). It begins, “Thy hands made me and fashioned me (in your image); give me understanding (insight) that I might learn thy commandments (mitzvot-v 73). May those who fear thee see me and be glad (other believers are glad to be with other believers), because I wait for (serving) thy word (davar-it has not disappointed him and others can be inspired by that-v 74). I know, Yehovah, that thy judgments (mishpatim) are righteous (just, true), and that in faithfulness (good faith) thou hast afflicted me (he deserved it-v 75). O may thy lovingkindness comfort me (sustain him in trouble), according to thy word (davar) to thy servant (v 76). May thy compassion (mercy) come to me that I may live, for thy law (Torah) is my delight (preoccupation-v 77). May the arrogant (proud) be ashamed, for they subvert (malign) me with a lie; but I shall meditate (speak and mutter in a low tone) on thy precepts (pekudim-v 78). May those who fear thee turn to me (realize the lies are not true), even those who know thy testimonies (edut-they had much in common, they knew the Torah-v 79). May my heart (desires, thoughts) be blameless (wholehearted) in thy statues (chukim), that I may not be ashamed (disgraced before my enemies-v 80).”
Psa 119.81-88 is the Letter “Kaf” meaning “open, palm” and the ancient symbol looked like an open palm. It says, “My soul languishes (pines, faints) for thy salvation; I wait (hope, knowing the promises are a sure thing) for thy word (davar-v 81). My eyes fail (worn out, strained by watching) for thy word (davar to be fulfilled), while I say, ‘when will thou comfort (assist) me (v 82)?’ Though I have become like a wineskin in smoke (dried up, something that should be thrown away) I do not forget thy statutes (chukim-even though my enemy tries to destroy me, it won’t work-v 83). How many are the days of thy servant (am I going to die soon)? When wilt thou execute judgment (mishpatim) on those who persecute me (and disrupt their plots-v 84). The arrogant (proud) have dug pits (secret plans and snares) for me, men who are not in accord with thy law (Torah does not guide them-v 85). All thy commandments (mitzvot) are faithful (you can trust them); they have persecuted me with a lie (a fugitive), help me (Deut 10.18-v 86). They almost destroyed me on earth, but as for me (no matter how hard it got), I did not forsake thy precepts (pekudim-he stood his ground-v 87). Revive (preserve) me according to thy lovingkindness, so that I may keep the testimony (edut) of thy mouth (God spoke the Torah-v 88).”
Psa 119.89-96 brings us to the letter “Lamed” which means “control, speak, authority.” The ancient symbol looked like a shepherd’s crook. It says, “Forever, Yehovah, thy word (davar) is settled in heaven (firm, unchangeable-v 89). Thy faithfulness endures (remains the same) from generation to generation, thou hast established the earth, and it stands (v 90). They stand this day according to thy ordinances (mishpatim); for all things are thy servants (obeying his laws-v 91). If thy law (Torah) had not been my delight (preoccupation), then I would have perished (in bitterness) in my affliction (mental anguish-v 92). I will never forget thy precepts (pekudim-despite the persecutions), for by them thou hast revived me (they are your life-Deut 30.6, 32.47; Prov 8.35, 9.11-v 93). I am thine, save me (from the present troubles), for I have sought thy precepts (pekudim-God looks at the desire to follow the Torah, not on our ability to keep every point of it-v 94). The wicked wait for me (hoping) to destroy me; I shall diligently consider (contemplate) thy testimonies (edut-to reinforce my faith and conviction-v 95). I have seen a limit to all perfection (all things come to an end); but thy commandment (mitzvot) is exceedingly broad (Torah wisdom is endless-Job 11.7-9-v 96).”
Psa 119.97-104 is the letter “Mem” and it means “water, mighty, blood” and it is symbolized anciently by water like waves. It begins, “O how I love thy law (Torah)! it is my meditation (discussion, muttering in a low tone) all the day (the writer is not boasting of himself, but praising God who gave the Torah through which he is able to overcome his natural tendencies-v 97). Thy commandments (mitzvot) make me wiser than my enemies (who believed they had a superior intelligence in the world’s knowledge). For they are ever with me (the Torah is the essence of his being-v 98). I have more insight than all my teachers, for thy testimonies (edut) are my meditation (discussion, conversation-v 99). I understand more than my elders, because I keep (observe) thy precepts (pekudim-v 100). I have restrained my feet (held myself back) from every evil way (path), that I may keep your word (davar-Num 15.39-40-v 101). I have not turned aside (departed) from thine ordinances (mishpatim), for thou thyself hast taught me (to do what it teaches-v 102). How sweet (pleasant) are thy words (imrataycha) to my taste more than honey to my mouth (new students would eat the letters of the Hebrew alphabet with honey on it- v 103). From thy precepts (pekudim) I get understanding (practical understanding in all matters); therefore I hate every false way (because he had understanding-v 104).”
Psa 119.105-112 has the letter “Nun” which means “continue, activity, life” and it had an ancient symbol that looks like a seed sprout. It says, “Thy word (davar) is a lamp (ner) to my feet and a light to my path (Prov 6.20-23; 1 John 1.5-7; Zeph 1.12; Rev 21.23-24-v 105). I have sworn, and I will confirm it (fulfill it), that I will keep thy righteous ordinances (mishpatim-v 106). I am exceedingly afflicted (heavy problems), revive me (preserve), O Yehovah, according to thy word (davar-Lev 18.5-v 107). Accept the freewill offerings of my mouth (his meditations, prayers, etc) and teach me thy judgments (mishpatim-v 108). My life is continually in my hand (in danger) yet I do not forget thy law (Torah is in his heart and mind, thought and desires-v 109). The wicked have laid a snare (pits to kill him, draw him into sin) for me, yet I have not gone astray from thy precepts (pekudim-v 110). I have inherited thy testimonies (edut) forever (a tradition of faith from his fathers) for they are the joy of my heart (Torah was not burdensome-v 111). I have inclined (caused) my heart (desires and thoughts) to perform thy statutes (obey them) forever (l’olam) to the end (of his life-v 112).”
Psa 119.113-120 deals with the letter “Samech” which means “prop, turn, twist slowly” it had the ancient symbol of a hand on a staff. It begins, “I hate those who are double-minded (not resolute, to deviate-Jam.1-6-8; 1 King 18.21). But I love thy law (Torah-v 113). Thou art my hiding place (concealment-Zeph 2.1-3; Psa 27.5; Psa 91.1) and my shield (Prov 30.5-6; Psa 84.9); I wait (hope is knowing that all the promises are a sure thing) for thy word (davar-v 114). Depart from me evildoers (their course in life was evil) for I will keep (observe) the commandments (mitzvot) of my God (v 115). Sustain (support) me according to thy word (davar-as he has promised) that I may live (Lev 18.5; Deut 30.6); and do not let me be ashamed (disgraced for having put his confidence in Yehovah) of my hope (hope is knowing that God’s promises is a sure thing-v 116). Uphold (sustain) me that I may be safe (delivered, safe), that I may have regard for (respect) thy statutes (chukim) continually (free from all interference-v 117). Thou hast rejected (trampled on) all those who wander from thy statutes (chukim- the truth of the Torah) for their deceitfulness is falsehood (their traps won’t work-v 118). Thou hast removed (purged) all the wicked of the earth like dross (worthless left behind in a smelter ); therefore I love thy testimonies (edut-they purge his heart of worthless dross-v 119). My flesh trembles for fear (shakes with awe) of thee (righteous know they can’t hide), and I am afraid (fear, awe) of thy judgments (mishpatim-v 120).”
Psa 119.121-128 deals with the letter “Ayin” meaning “to see, eye, perceive, reveal” and its ancient symbol was an eye. It says, “I have done justice (mishpat) and righteousness (as defined by the Torah); do not leave me (abandon) to my oppressors (the cruel-v 121). Be a surety for thy servant for good (a lawyer who defends against false charges); do not let the arrogant (proud) oppress me (by their cruel tactics-v 122). My eyes (the letter Ayin) fail (watch all the time) for thy salvation (yeshua), and for thy righteous word (davar- his promises-v 123). Deal (treat) with thy servant according to thy lovingkindness (mercy, favor); and teach me thy statutes (chukim so they can be followed- v 124). I am thy servant; give me understanding (binah-comprehension of good and evil), that I may know thy testimonies (edut-v 125). It is time for Yehovah to act (he is not slow but there is a time when he will), for they have broken (destroyed, voided) thy law (Torah-v 126). Therefore I love thy commandments more than (above) gold, yes, above fine gold (the wicked, on the other hand, voided the Torah to pursue wealth-v 127). Therefore, I esteem right all thy precepts (pekudim) concerning everything, I hate every false way (God’s Torah can deliver us, gold can’t. The wicked ridicule and distort the teachings of the Torah- v 128).”
Psa 119.129-136 deals with the letter “Peh” which means “mouth, to speak, a word” and its ancient symbol symbol was in the shape of a mouth. Thy testimonies (edut) are wonderful (beyond human comprehension); therefore my soul observes them (v 129). The unfolding (opening) of thy words (davar) give light (illumination); it gives understanding to the simple (innocent, no pretense-v 130). I opened my mouth (the letter “Peh”) wide and panted (starving, thirsty for the word), for I longed for thy commandments (mitzvot-like the rain in a drought-Deut 32.2-v 131). Turn to me and be gracious to me (my success depends on it), after thy manner (just like you used to do) with those who love thy name (v 132). Establish (set) my footsteps in thy word (davar-to walk in thy ways), and do not let any iniquity have dominion (power) over me (v 133). Redeem me from oppression (exploitation) of man, that I may keep (observe) thy precepts (pekudim-v 134). Make thy face shine (with favor) upon thy servant (Num 6.25; Prov 16.15), and teach me thy statutes (chukim-giving me wisdom to understand difficult passages and Torah instruction-v 135). My eyes shed streams of water (in sorrow) because they (the wicked) do not keep thy law (Torah- and destroy themselves-v 136).”
Psa 119.137-144 is the letter (Tzadi) meaning “fish hook, catch, desire and need” and its ancient symbol looked like a fish hook. It reads, “Righteous art thou, O Lord, and upright (true) are thy judgments (mishpatim-v 137). Thou hast commanded thy testimonies (edut) in righteousness and exceeding faithfulness (with firmness, no partiality-Deut 16.19-20-v 138). My zeal (righteous passion, indignation) has consumed me (brought him near to death), because my adversaries (oppressors) have forgotten thy word (davar-in false doctrine-Jam 1.22-25-v 139). Thy word (davar) is very pure (free of flaws-Psa 12.6), therefore thy servant loves it (v 140). I am small (in my own eyes) and despised (his opinions are belittled and made fun of, ignored), yet I do not forget thy precepts (pekudim- he does not abandon them-v 141). Thy righteousness is an everlasting (l’olam) righteousness, and thy word (davar) is truth (John 8.52, 17.17; Psa 119.160; Rom 2.20-v 142). Trouble and anguish have come upon me, yet thy commandments are my delight (preoccupation- he turned to the Torah for encouragement02 Pet 1.12-v 143). Thy testimonies (edut) are righteous forever, give me understanding that I may live (Deut 4.1; Lev 18.5; Deut 30.6).”
Psa 119.145-152 deals with the letter “Kof” meaning “back of the head, behind, last, least” and had the ancient symbol of the back of the head. It says, “I cried with all my heart (full effort); answer me, Yehovah! I will observe thy statutes (chukim- v 145). I cried to thee; save me, and I will keep thy testimonies (edut-a parallelism with the previous verse-v 146). I rise before dawn (literally a time of transition) and cry for help ( he wanted to be the first person to pray that day); I wait (or hope, which is the belief that God’s promises are a sure thing) in thy word (davar-v 147). My eyes anticipate the night watches (he was awake at night), that I may meditate (speak, mutter) on thy word (v 148). Hear my voice according (on the basis of) your lovingkindness (mercy), revive me (bring life) O Yehovah according to (on the basis of) thine ordinances (mishpatim-v 149). Those who follow after wickedness draw near (to evil); they are far from thy law (Torah does not instruct them on sin (v 150). Thou art near, O Yehovah, and all thy commandments are truth (v 151). Of old (from the start) I have known from thy testimonies (edut) that thou hast founded them forever (not temporary or to be done away with-v 152).”
Psa 153-160 is the letter “Resh” and it means “a head, a man, a person, highest, top, sum” and its ancient symbol was the head of a man. It says, “Look (see, consider) my affliction and rescue (deliver) me; for I do not forget thy law (Torah-v 153). Plead (defend) my cause (case) and redeem me; revive (give life) according to thy word (davar-there are biblical revivals “according to thy word” which brings man back to the Torah, like in the revival of Hezekiah and Josiah, but on the other hand, there are false revivals which are not “according to thy word” that does not bring people back to the Torah. Usually they are revivals back to some values not found in the Torah. We should measure any revival with the standard, “Is this according to God’s word in the Torah?”-v 154). Salvation is far from the wicked (they refuse to follow the Torah) for they do not seek thy statutes (chukim-they don’t care-v 155). Great are thy mercies, O Yehovah, revive me according to thine ordinances (mishpatim- v 156). Many are my persecutors and adversaries (because I follow the Torah) yet I do not turn aside from thy testimonies (edut-v 157). I behold the treacherous and quarreled with them because they kept not thy word (davar-v 158). Consider how I love thy precepts (pekudim-they were not burdensome); revive me, O Yehovah, according to thy lovingkindness (not because I keep the commandments but according to your grace and mercy-v 159). The sum (the word “Rosh” here in Hebrew” carries the meaning of our letter “Resh”) of thy word is truth (2 Pet 1.12; John 8.32; Psa 119.142, 160), and everyone of thy righteous ordinances (mishpatim) is everlasting (l”olam-v 160).
Psa 161-168 deals with the letter “Shin” and it means “teeth, consume and destroy” and it was symbolized by “teeth.” It begins, “Princes (the influential) persecute me (also) without cause (he had done nothing), but my heart stands in awe of thy word (davar-persecution by people in authority could not deter his love for the Torah-v 161). I rejoice at thy word (davar-not in getting favor from man) as one who finds great spoil (gets rich spiritually by God’s revelation to him-v 162). I hate and despise falsehood, but I love thy law (Torah is the opposite of falsehood-v 163). Seven times a day (many times, completely) I praise thee, because of thy righteous ordinances (mishpatim-even those judgments that are against him-v 164). Those who love thy law (Torah) have great peace (something the wicked do not have) and nothing causes them to stumble (or be offended-v 165). I hope for thy salvation, O Yehovah, and do thy commandments (mitzvot-be obedient-v 166). My soul (desires) keep thy testimonies (edut), and I love them exceedingly (they are not burdensome and he studies and examines them-v 167). I kept thy precepts (pekudim) and thy testimonies (edut) for all my ways are before thee (he kept the Torah and God sees it-v 168).”
Psa 119.169-176 is the last section and it deals with the letter “Tav” which means “covenant, to seal, sign, cross, last and finished.” It had the ancient symbol of two crossed sticks, like a “T.” It says, “Let my cry come before thee, O Yehovah, give me understanding according to thy word (davar-so he can follow the Torah-v 169). Let my supplication (petition) come before thee; deliver (rescue) me according to thy word (davar-v 170). Let my lips utter praise when you teach me thy statutes (chukim-v 171). Let my tongue sing of thy word (davar), for all thy commandments are righteousness (in line with truth-v 172). Let thy hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen thy precepts (pekudim-v 173). I long for thy salvation, and thy law (Torah) is my delight (preoccupation-v 174). Let my soul live (in this world) that I may praise thee, and let thine ordinances (mishpatim-v 175) help me. I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant (like a shepherd seeks his sheep), for I do not forget thy commandments (mitzvot-because I am only recently lost, I have not forgotten your Torah-v 176).
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