Psalms 119

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This psalm containeth various prayers, praises, and professions of obedience.

1. Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.

2. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.

3. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways.

4. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.

5. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!

6. Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.

7. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments.

8. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly.

9. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

10. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.

11. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

12. Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes.

13. With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth.

14. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches.

15. I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.

16. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

17. Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word.

18. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.

19. I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me.

20. My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times.

21. Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments.

22. Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies.

23. Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.

24. Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors.

25. My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word.

26. I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes.

27. Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.

28. My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word.

29. Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously.

30. I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me.

31. I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame.

32. I will run the way of thy com-mandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.

33. Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.

34. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.

35. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.

36. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.

37. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.

38. Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.

39. Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good.

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

41. Let thy mercies come also unto me, O LORD, even thy salvation, according to thy word.

42. So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word.

43. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments.

44. So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever.

45. And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts.

46. I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.

47. And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.

48. My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

49. Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.

50. This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

51. The proud have had me greatly in derision: yet have I not declined from thy law.

52. I remembered thy judgments of old, O LORD; and have comforted myself.

53. Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law.

54. Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage.

55. I have remembered thy name, O LORD, in the night, and have kept thy law.

56. This I had, because I kept thy precepts.

57. Thou art my portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words.

58. I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word.

59. I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies.

60. I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy commandments.

61. The bands of the wicked have robbed me: but I have not forgotten thy law.

62. At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.

63. I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.

64. The earth, O LORD, is full of thy mercy: teach me thy statutes.

65. Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O LORD, according unto thy word.

66. Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments.

67. Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word.

68. Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes.

69. The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart.

70. Their heart is as fat as grease; but I delight in thy law.

71. It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.

72. The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.

73. Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments.

74. They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word.

75. I know, O LORD, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.

76. Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant.

77. Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight.

78. Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts.

79. Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies.

80. Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed.

81. My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word.

82. Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me?

83. For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget thy statutes.

84. How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me?

85. The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law.

86. All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.

87. They had almost consumed me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts.

88. Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth.

89. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.

90. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

91. They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants.

92. Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.

93. I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me.

94. I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.

95. The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies.

96. I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad.

97. O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.

98. Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.

99. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.

100. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.

101. I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word.

102. I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me.

103. How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

104. Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.

105. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

106. I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.

107. I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word.

108. Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments.

109. My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.

110. The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts.

111. Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.

112. I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.

113. I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.

114. Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

115. Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.

116. Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.

117. Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.

118. Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.

119. Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.

120. My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.

121. I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors.

122. Be surety for thy servant for good: let not the proud oppress me.

123. Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness.

124. Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes.

125. I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies.

126. It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law.

127. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.

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

129. Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.

130. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

131. I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments.

132. Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me, as thou usest to do unto those that love thy name.

133. Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

134. Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts.

135. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes.

136. Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law.

137. Righteous art thou, O LORD, and upright are thy judgments.

138. Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful.

139. My zeal hath consumed me, because mine enemies have forgotten thy words.

140. Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it.

141. I am small and despised: yet do not I forget thy precepts.

142. Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.

143. Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me: yet thy commandments are my delights.

144. The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall live.

145. I cried with my whole heart; hear me, O LORD: I will keep thy statutes.

146. I cried unto thee; save me, and I shall keep thy testimonies.

147. I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word.

148. Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word.

149. Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O LORD, quicken me according to thy judgment.

150. They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.

151. Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth.

152. Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever.

153. Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law.

154. Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word.

155. Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek not thy statutes.

156. Great are thy tender mercies, O LORD: quicken me according to thy judgments.

157. Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies.

158. I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word.

159. Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O LORD, according to thy lovingkindness.

160. Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

161. Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.

162. I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.

163. I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love.

164. Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.

165. Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.

166. Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments.

167. My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly.

168. I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee.

169. Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: give me understanding according to thy word.

170. Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word.

171. My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes.

172. My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.

173. Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts.

174. I have longed for thy salvation, O LORD; and thy law is my delight.

175. Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me.

176. I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.

Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me. My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times. Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies. Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors. My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word. I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes. Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works. My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously. I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me. I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame. I will run the way of thy com-mandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way. Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear. Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good. Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness. Let thy mercies come also unto me, O LORD, even thy salvation, according to thy word. So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments. So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever. And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts. I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved. My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes. Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me. The proud have had me greatly in derision: yet have I not declined from thy law. I remembered thy judgments of old, O LORD; and have comforted myself. Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law. Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage. I have remembered thy name, O LORD, in the night, and have kept thy law. This I had, because I kept thy precepts. Thou art my portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words. I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word. I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy commandments. The bands of the wicked have robbed me: but I have not forgotten thy law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments. I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts. The earth, O LORD, is full of thy mercy: teach me thy statutes. Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O LORD, according unto thy word. Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word. Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes. The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart. Their heart is as fat as grease; but I delight in thy law. It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes. The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver. Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word. I know, O LORD, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me. Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant. Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight. Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts. Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies. Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed. My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word. Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me? For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget thy statutes. How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me? The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law. All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me. They had almost consumed me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts. Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts. The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies. I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad. O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts. I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word. I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me. How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments. I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word. Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments. My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law. The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts. Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart. I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end. I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love. Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God. Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope. Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually. Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood. Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies. My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments. I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors. Be surety for thy servant for good: let not the proud oppress me. Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness. Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes. I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies. It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way. Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments. Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me, as thou usest to do unto those that love thy name. Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes. Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law. Righteous art thou, O LORD, and upright are thy judgments. Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful. My zeal hath consumed me, because mine enemies have forgotten thy words. Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it. I am small and despised: yet do not I forget thy precepts. Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth. Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me: yet thy commandments are my delights. The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall live. I cried with my whole heart; hear me, O LORD: I will keep thy statutes. I cried unto thee; save me, and I shall keep thy testimonies. I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word. Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word. Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O LORD, quicken me according to thy judgment. They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law. Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth. Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever. Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law. Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word. Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek not thy statutes. Great are thy tender mercies, O LORD: quicken me according to thy judgments. Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies. I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word. Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O LORD, according to thy lovingkindness. Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word. I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil. I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love. Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments. Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments. My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly. I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee. Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: give me understanding according to thy word. Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word. My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes. My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness. Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts. I have longed for thy salvation, O LORD; and thy law is my delight. Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me. I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.

NKJV

1. Blessed are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the Lord!

2. Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart!

3. They also do no iniquity;
They walk in His ways.

4. You have commanded us
To keep Your precepts diligently.

5. Oh, that my ways were directed
To keep Your statutes!

6. Then I would not be ashamed,
When I look into all Your commandments.

7. I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.

8. I will keep Your statutes;
Oh, do not forsake me utterly!

9. How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.

10. With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!

11. Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.

12. Blessed are You, O Lord!
Teach me Your statutes.

13. With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth.

14. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.

15. I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways.

16. I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.

17. Deal bountifully with Your servant,
That I may live and keep Your word.

18. Open my eyes, that I may see
Wondrous things from Your law.

19. I am a stranger in the earth;
Do not hide Your commandments from me.

20. My soul breaks with longing
For Your judgments at all times.

21. You rebuke the proud—the cursed,
Who stray from Your commandments.

22. Remove from me reproach and contempt,
For I have kept Your testimonies.

23. Princes also sit and speak against me,
But Your servant meditates on Your statutes.

24. Your testimonies also are my delight
And my counselors.

25. My soul clings to the dust;
Revive me according to Your word.

26. I have declared my ways, and You answered me;
Teach me Your statutes.

27. Make me understand the way of Your precepts;
So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works.

28. My soul melts from heaviness;
Strengthen me according to Your word.

29. Remove from me the way of lying,
And grant me Your law graciously.

30. I have chosen the way of truth;
Your judgments I have laid before me.

31. I cling to Your testimonies;
O Lord, do not put me to shame!

32. I will run the course of Your commandments,
For You shall enlarge my heart.

33. Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes,
And I shall keep it to the end.

34. Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law;
Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.

35. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments,
For I delight in it.

36. Incline my heart to Your testimonies,
And not to covetousness.

37. Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,
And revive me in Your way.

38. Establish Your word to Your servant,
Who is devoted to fearing You.

39. Turn away my reproach which I dread,
For Your judgments are good.

40. Behold, I long for Your precepts;
Revive me in Your righteousness.

41. Let Your mercies come also to me, O Lord—
Your salvation according to Your word.

42. So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me,
For I trust in Your word.

43. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
For I have hoped in Your ordinances.

44. So shall I keep Your law continually,
Forever and ever.

45. And I will walk at liberty,
For I seek Your precepts.

46. I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings,
And will not be ashamed.

47. And I will delight myself in Your commandments,
Which I love.

48. My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments,
Which I love,
And I will meditate on Your statutes.

49. Remember the word to Your servant,
Upon which You have caused me to hope.

50. This is my comfort in my affliction,
For Your word has given me life.

51. The proud have me in great derision,
Yet I do not turn aside from Your law.

52. I remembered Your judgments of old, O Lord,
And have comforted myself.

53. Indignation has taken hold of me
Because of the wicked, who forsake Your law.

54. Your statutes have been my songs
In the house of my pilgrimage.

55. I remember Your name in the night, O Lord,
And I keep Your law.

56. This has become mine,
Because I kept Your precepts.

57. You are my portion, O Lord;
I have said that I would keep Your words.

58. I entreated Your favor with my whole heart;
Be merciful to me according to Your word.

59. I thought about my ways,
And turned my feet to Your testimonies.

60. I made haste, and did not delay
To keep Your commandments.

61. The cords of the wicked have bound me,
But I have not forgotten Your law.

62. At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You,
Because of Your righteous judgments.

63. I am a companion of all who fear You,
And of those who keep Your precepts.

64. The earth, O Lord, is full of Your mercy;
Teach me Your statutes.

65. You have dealt well with Your servant,
O Lord, according to Your word.

66. Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
For I believe Your commandments.

67. Before I was afflicted I went astray,
But now I keep Your word.

68. You are good, and do good;
Teach me Your statutes.

69. The proud have forged a lie against me,
But I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart.

70. Their heart is as fat as grease,
But I delight in Your law.

71. It is good for me that I have been afflicted,
That I may learn Your statutes.

72. The law of Your mouth is better to me
Than thousands of coins of gold and silver.

73. Your hands have made me and fashioned me;
Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments.

74. Those who fear You will be glad when they see me,
Because I have hoped in Your word.

75. I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.

76. Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,
According to Your word to Your servant.

77. Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live;
For Your law is my delight.

78. Let the proud be ashamed,
For they treated me wrongfully with falsehood;
But I will meditate on Your precepts.

79. Let those who fear You turn to me,
Those who know Your testimonies.

80. Let my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes,
That I may not be ashamed.

81. My soul faints for Your salvation,
But I hope in Your word.

82. My eyes fail from searching Your word,
Saying, “When will You comfort me?”

83. For I have become like a wineskin in smoke,
Yet I do not forget Your statutes.

84. How many are the days of Your servant?
When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me?

85. The proud have dug pits for me,
Which is not according to Your law.

86. All Your commandments are faithful;
They persecute me wrongfully;
Help me!

87. They almost made an end of me on earth,
But I did not forsake Your precepts.

88. Revive me according to Your lovingkindness,
So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.

89. Forever, O Lord,
Your word is settled in heaven.

90. Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
You established the earth, and it abides.

91. They continue this day according to Your ordinances,
For all are Your servants.

92. Unless Your law had been my delight,
I would then have perished in my affliction.

93. I will never forget Your precepts,
For by them You have given me life.

94. I am Yours, save me;
For I have sought Your precepts.

95. The wicked wait for me to destroy me,
But I will consider Your testimonies.

96. I have seen the consummation of all perfection,
But Your commandment is exceedingly broad.

97. Oh, how I love Your law!
It is my meditation all the day.

98. You, through Your commandments, make me wiser than my enemies;
For they are ever with me.

99. I have more understanding than all my teachers,
For Your testimonies are my meditation.

100. I understand more than the ancients,
Because I keep Your precepts.

101. I have restrained my feet from every evil way,
That I may keep Your word.

102. I have not departed from Your judgments,
For You Yourself have taught me.

103. How sweet are Your words to my taste,
Sweeter than honey to my mouth!

104. Through Your precepts I get understanding;
Therefore I hate every false way.

105. Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.

106. I have sworn and confirmed
That I will keep Your righteous judgments.

107. I am afflicted very much;
Revive me, O Lord, according to Your word.

108. Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord,
And teach me Your judgments.

109. My life is continually in my hand,
Yet I do not forget Your law.

110. The wicked have laid a snare for me,
Yet I have not strayed from Your precepts.

111. Your testimonies I have taken as a heritage forever,
For they are the rejoicing of my heart.

112. I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes
Forever, to the very end.

113. I hate the double-minded,
But I love Your law.

114. You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in Your word.

115. Depart from me, you evildoers,
For I will keep the commandments of my God!

116. Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live;
And do not let me be ashamed of my hope.

117. Hold me up, and I shall be safe,
And I shall observe Your statutes continually.

118. You reject all those who stray from Your statutes,
For their deceit is falsehood.

119. You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross;
Therefore I love Your testimonies.

120. My flesh trembles for fear of You,
And I am afraid of Your judgments.

121. I have done justice and righteousness;
Do not leave me to my oppressors.

122. Be surety for Your servant for good;
Do not let the proud oppress me.

123. My eyes fail from seeking Your salvation
And Your righteous word.

124. Deal with Your servant according to Your mercy,
And teach me Your statutes.

125. I am Your servant;
Give me understanding,
That I may know Your testimonies.

126. It is time for You to act, O Lord,
For they have regarded Your law as void.

127. Therefore I love Your commandments
More than gold, yes, than fine gold!

128. Therefore all Your precepts concerning all things
I consider to be right;
I hate every false way.

129. Your testimonies are wonderful;
Therefore my soul keeps them.

130. The entrance of Your words gives light;
It gives understanding to the simple.

131. I opened my mouth and panted,
For I longed for Your commandments.

132. Look upon me and be merciful to me,
As Your custom is toward those who love Your name.

133. Direct my steps by Your word,
And let no iniquity have dominion over me.

134. Redeem me from the oppression of man,
That I may keep Your precepts.

135. Make Your face shine upon Your servant,
And teach me Your statutes.

136. Rivers of water run down from my eyes,
Because men do not keep Your law.

137. Righteous are You, O Lord,
And upright are Your judgments.

138. Your testimonies, which You have commanded,
Are righteous and very faithful.

139. My zeal has consumed me,
Because my enemies have forgotten Your words.

140. Your word is very pure;
Therefore Your servant loves it.

141. I am small and despised,
Yet I do not forget Your precepts.

142. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And Your law is truth.

143. Trouble and anguish have overtaken me,
Yet Your commandments are my delights.

144. The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting;
Give me understanding, and I shall live.

145. I cry out with my whole heart;
Hear me, O Lord!
I will keep Your statutes.

146. I cry out to You;
Save me, and I will keep Your testimonies.

147. I rise before the dawning of the morning,
And cry for help;
I hope in Your word.

148. My eyes are awake through the night watches,
That I may meditate on Your word.

149. Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness;
O Lord, revive me according to Your justice.

150. They draw near who follow after wickedness;
They are far from Your law.

151. You are near, O Lord,
And all Your commandments are truth.

152. Concerning Your testimonies,
I have known of old that You have founded them forever.

153. Consider my affliction and deliver me,
For I do not forget Your law.

154. Plead my cause and redeem me;
Revive me according to Your word.

155. Salvation is far from the wicked,
For they do not seek Your statutes.

156. Great are Your tender mercies, O Lord;
Revive me according to Your judgments.

157. Many are my persecutors and my enemies,
Yet I do not turn from Your testimonies.

158. I see the treacherous, and am disgusted,
Because they do not keep Your word.

159. Consider how I love Your precepts;
Revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness.

160. The entirety of Your word is truth,
And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.

161. Princes persecute me without a cause,
But my heart stands in awe of Your word.

162. I rejoice at Your word
As one who finds great treasure.

163. I hate and abhor lying,
But I love Your law.

164. Seven times a day I praise You,
Because of Your righteous judgments.

165. Great peace have those who love Your law,
And nothing causes them to stumble.

166. Lord, I hope for Your salvation,
And I do Your commandments.

167. My soul keeps Your testimonies,
And I love them exceedingly.

168. I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies,
For all my ways are before You.

169. Let my cry come before You, O Lord;
Give me understanding according to Your word.

170. Let my supplication come before You;
Deliver me according to Your word.

171. My lips shall utter praise,
For You teach me Your statutes.

172. My tongue shall speak of Your word,
For all Your commandments are righteousness.

173. Let Your hand become my help,
For I have chosen Your precepts.

174. I long for Your salvation, O Lord,
And Your law is my delight.

175. Let my soul live, and it shall praise You;
And let Your judgments help me.

176. I have gone astray like a lost sheep;
Seek Your servant,
For I do not forget Your commandments.

Blessed are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart! They also do no iniquity;
They walk in His ways. You have commanded us
To keep Your precepts diligently. Oh, that my ways were directed
To keep Your statutes! Then I would not be ashamed,
When I look into all Your commandments. I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments. I will keep Your statutes;
Oh, do not forsake me utterly! How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You. Blessed are You, O Lord!
Teach me Your statutes. With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word. Deal bountifully with Your servant,
That I may live and keep Your word. Open my eyes, that I may see
Wondrous things from Your law. I am a stranger in the earth;
Do not hide Your commandments from me. My soul breaks with longing
For Your judgments at all times. You rebuke the proud—the cursed,
Who stray from Your commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt,
For I have kept Your testimonies. Princes also sit and speak against me,
But Your servant meditates on Your statutes. Your testimonies also are my delight
And my counselors. My soul clings to the dust;
Revive me according to Your word. I have declared my ways, and You answered me;
Teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts;
So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works. My soul melts from heaviness;
Strengthen me according to Your word. Remove from me the way of lying,
And grant me Your law graciously. I have chosen the way of truth;
Your judgments I have laid before me. I cling to Your testimonies;
O Lord, do not put me to shame! I will run the course of Your commandments,
For You shall enlarge my heart. Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes,
And I shall keep it to the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law;
Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments,
For I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies,
And not to covetousness. Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,
And revive me in Your way. Establish Your word to Your servant,
Who is devoted to fearing You. Turn away my reproach which I dread,
For Your judgments are good. Behold, I long for Your precepts;
Revive me in Your righteousness. Let Your mercies come also to me, O Lord—
Your salvation according to Your word. So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me,
For I trust in Your word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
For I have hoped in Your ordinances. So shall I keep Your law continually,
Forever and ever. And I will walk at liberty,
For I seek Your precepts. I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings,
And will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself in Your commandments,
Which I love. My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments,
Which I love,
And I will meditate on Your statutes. Remember the word to Your servant,
Upon which You have caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction,
For Your word has given me life. The proud have me in great derision,
Yet I do not turn aside from Your law. I remembered Your judgments of old, O Lord,
And have comforted myself. Indignation has taken hold of me
Because of the wicked, who forsake Your law. Your statutes have been my songs
In the house of my pilgrimage. I remember Your name in the night, O Lord,
And I keep Your law. This has become mine,
Because I kept Your precepts. You are my portion, O Lord;
I have said that I would keep Your words. I entreated Your favor with my whole heart;
Be merciful to me according to Your word. I thought about my ways,
And turned my feet to Your testimonies. I made haste, and did not delay
To keep Your commandments. The cords of the wicked have bound me,
But I have not forgotten Your law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You,
Because of Your righteous judgments. I am a companion of all who fear You,
And of those who keep Your precepts. The earth, O Lord, is full of Your mercy;
Teach me Your statutes. You have dealt well with Your servant,
O Lord, according to Your word. Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
For I believe Your commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray,
But now I keep Your word. You are good, and do good;
Teach me Your statutes. The proud have forged a lie against me,
But I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart. Their heart is as fat as grease,
But I delight in Your law. It is good for me that I have been afflicted,
That I may learn Your statutes. The law of Your mouth is better to me
Than thousands of coins of gold and silver. Your hands have made me and fashioned me;
Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments. Those who fear You will be glad when they see me,
Because I have hoped in Your word. I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me. Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,
According to Your word to Your servant. Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live;
For Your law is my delight. Let the proud be ashamed,
For they treated me wrongfully with falsehood;
But I will meditate on Your precepts. Let those who fear You turn to me,
Those who know Your testimonies. Let my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes,
That I may not be ashamed. My soul faints for Your salvation,
But I hope in Your word. My eyes fail from searching Your word,
Saying, “When will You comfort me?” For I have become like a wineskin in smoke,
Yet I do not forget Your statutes. How many are the days of Your servant?
When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me? The proud have dug pits for me,
Which is not according to Your law. All Your commandments are faithful;
They persecute me wrongfully;
Help me! They almost made an end of me on earth,
But I did not forsake Your precepts. Revive me according to Your lovingkindness,
So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth. Forever, O Lord,
Your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
You established the earth, and it abides. They continue this day according to Your ordinances,
For all are Your servants. Unless Your law had been my delight,
I would then have perished in my affliction. I will never forget Your precepts,
For by them You have given me life. I am Yours, save me;
For I have sought Your precepts. The wicked wait for me to destroy me,
But I will consider Your testimonies. I have seen the consummation of all perfection,
But Your commandment is exceedingly broad. Oh, how I love Your law!
It is my meditation all the day. You, through Your commandments, make me wiser than my enemies;
For they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers,
For Your testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients,
Because I keep Your precepts. I have restrained my feet from every evil way,
That I may keep Your word. I have not departed from Your judgments,
For You Yourself have taught me. How sweet are Your words to my taste,
Sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through Your precepts I get understanding;
Therefore I hate every false way. Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path. I have sworn and confirmed
That I will keep Your righteous judgments. I am afflicted very much;
Revive me, O Lord, according to Your word. Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord,
And teach me Your judgments. My life is continually in my hand,
Yet I do not forget Your law. The wicked have laid a snare for me,
Yet I have not strayed from Your precepts. Your testimonies I have taken as a heritage forever,
For they are the rejoicing of my heart. I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes
Forever, to the very end. I hate the double-minded,
But I love Your law. You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in Your word. Depart from me, you evildoers,
For I will keep the commandments of my God! Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live;
And do not let me be ashamed of my hope. Hold me up, and I shall be safe,
And I shall observe Your statutes continually. You reject all those who stray from Your statutes,
For their deceit is falsehood. You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross;
Therefore I love Your testimonies. My flesh trembles for fear of You,
And I am afraid of Your judgments. I have done justice and righteousness;
Do not leave me to my oppressors. Be surety for Your servant for good;
Do not let the proud oppress me. My eyes fail from seeking Your salvation
And Your righteous word. Deal with Your servant according to Your mercy,
And teach me Your statutes. I am Your servant;
Give me understanding,
That I may know Your testimonies. It is time for You to act, O Lord,
For they have regarded Your law as void. Therefore I love Your commandments
More than gold, yes, than fine gold! Therefore all Your precepts concerning all things
I consider to be right;
I hate every false way. Your testimonies are wonderful;
Therefore my soul keeps them. The entrance of Your words gives light;
It gives understanding to the simple. I opened my mouth and panted,
For I longed for Your commandments. Look upon me and be merciful to me,
As Your custom is toward those who love Your name. Direct my steps by Your word,
And let no iniquity have dominion over me. Redeem me from the oppression of man,
That I may keep Your precepts. Make Your face shine upon Your servant,
And teach me Your statutes. Rivers of water run down from my eyes,
Because men do not keep Your law. Righteous are You, O Lord,
And upright are Your judgments. Your testimonies, which You have commanded,
Are righteous and very faithful. My zeal has consumed me,
Because my enemies have forgotten Your words. Your word is very pure;
Therefore Your servant loves it. I am small and despised,
Yet I do not forget Your precepts. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And Your law is truth. Trouble and anguish have overtaken me,
Yet Your commandments are my delights. The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting;
Give me understanding, and I shall live. I cry out with my whole heart;
Hear me, O Lord!
I will keep Your statutes. I cry out to You;
Save me, and I will keep Your testimonies. I rise before the dawning of the morning,
And cry for help;
I hope in Your word. My eyes are awake through the night watches,
That I may meditate on Your word. Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness;
O Lord, revive me according to Your justice. They draw near who follow after wickedness;
They are far from Your law. You are near, O Lord,
And all Your commandments are truth. Concerning Your testimonies,
I have known of old that You have founded them forever. Consider my affliction and deliver me,
For I do not forget Your law. Plead my cause and redeem me;
Revive me according to Your word. Salvation is far from the wicked,
For they do not seek Your statutes. Great are Your tender mercies, O Lord;
Revive me according to Your judgments. Many are my persecutors and my enemies,
Yet I do not turn from Your testimonies. I see the treacherous, and am disgusted,
Because they do not keep Your word. Consider how I love Your precepts;
Revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness. The entirety of Your word is truth,
And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever. Princes persecute me without a cause,
But my heart stands in awe of Your word. I rejoice at Your word
As one who finds great treasure. I hate and abhor lying,
But I love Your law. Seven times a day I praise You,
Because of Your righteous judgments. Great peace have those who love Your law,
And nothing causes them to stumble. Lord, I hope for Your salvation,
And I do Your commandments. My soul keeps Your testimonies,
And I love them exceedingly. I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies,
For all my ways are before You. Let my cry come before You, O Lord;
Give me understanding according to Your word. Let my supplication come before You;
Deliver me according to Your word. My lips shall utter praise,
For You teach me Your statutes. My tongue shall speak of Your word,
For all Your commandments are righteousness. Let Your hand become my help,
For I have chosen Your precepts. I long for Your salvation, O Lord,
And Your law is my delight. Let my soul live, and it shall praise You;
And let Your judgments help me. I have gone astray like a lost sheep;
Seek Your servant,
For I do not forget Your commandments.

Metrical version

Psalm 119

C.M. Jackson, Caithness, Bangor, York, Bristol, Ballerma

Aleph

Blessed are they that undefiled,
and straight are in the way;
Who in the LORD's most holy law
do walk, and do not stray.

Blessed are they who to observe
his statutes are inclined;
And who do seek the living God
with their whole heart and mind.

Such in his ways do walk, and they
do no iniquity.
Thou hast commanded us to keep
thy precepts carefully.

O that thy statutes to observe
thou would'st my ways direct!
Then shall I not be shamed, when I
thy precepts all respect.

Then with integrity of heart
thee will I praise and bless,
When I the judgments all have learned
of thy pure righteousness.

That I will keep thy statutes all
firmly resolved have I:
O do not then, most gracious God,
forsake me utterly.

Beth

By what means shall a young man learn
his way to purify?
If he according to thy word
thereto attentive be.

Unfeignedly thee have I sought
with all my soul and heart:
O let me not from the right path
of thy commands depart.

Thy word I in my heart have hid,
that I offend not thee.
O LORD, thou ever blessed art,
thy statutes teach thou me.

The judgments of thy mouth each one
my lips declared have:
More joy thy testimonies' way
than riches all me gave.

I will thy holy precepts make
my meditation;
And carefully I'll have respect
unto thy ways each one.

Upon thy statutes my delight
shall constantly be set:
And, by thy grace, I never will
thy holy word forget.

Gimel

With me thy servant, in thy grace,
deal bountifully, Lord;
That by thy favour I may live,
and duly keep thy word.

Open mine eyes, that of thy law
the wonders I may see.
I am a stranger on this earth,
hide not thy laws from me.

My soul within me breaks, and doth
much fainting still endure,
Through longing that it hath all times
unto thy judgments pure.

Thou hast rebuked the cursed proud,
who from thy precepts swerve.
Reproach and shame remove from me,
for I thy laws observe.

Against me princes spake with spite,
while they in council sat:
But I thy servant did upon
thy statutes meditate.

My comfort, and my heart's delight,
thy testimonies be;
And they, in all my doubts and fears,
are counsellors to me.

Daleth

My soul to dust cleaves: quicken me,
according to thy word.
My ways I showed, and me thou heard'st:
teach me thy statutes, Lord.

The way of thy commandments
make me aright to know;
So all thy works that wondrous are
I shall to others show.

My soul doth melt, and drop away,
for heaviness and grief:
To me, according to thy word,
give strength, and send relief.

From me the wicked way of lies
let far removed be;
And graciously thy holy law
do thou grant unto me.

I chosen have the perfect way
of truth and verity:
Thy judgments that most righteous are
before me laid have I.

I to thy testimonies cleave;
shame do not on me cast.
I'll run thy precepts' way, when thou
my heart enlarged hast.

He

Teach me, O LORD, the perfect way
of thy precepts divine,
And to observe it to the end
I shall my heart incline.

Give understanding unto me,
so keep thy law shall I;
Yea, ev'n with my whole heart I shall
observe it carefully.

In thy law's path make me to go;
for I delight therein.
My heart unto thy test'monies,
and not to greed, incline.

Turn thou away my sight and eyes
from viewing vanity;
And in thy good and holy way
be pleased to quicken me.

Confirm to me thy gracious word,
which I did gladly hear,
Ev'n to thy servant, Lord, who is
devoted to thy fear.

Turn thou away my feared reproach;
for good thy judgments be.
Lo, for thy precepts I have longed;
in thy truth quicken me.

Vau

Let thy sweet mercies also come
and visit me, O LORD;
Ev'n thy benign salvation,
according to thy word.

So shall I have wherewith I may
give him an answer just,
Who spitefully reproacheth me;
for in thy word I trust.

The word of truth out of my mouth
take thou not utterly;
For on thy judgments righteous
my hope doth still rely.

So shall I keep for evermore
thy law continually.
And, sith that I thy precepts seek,
I'll walk at liberty.

I'll speak thy word to kings, and I
with shame shall not be moved;
And will delight myself always
in thy laws, which I loved.

To thy commandments, which I loved,
my hands lift up I will;
And I will also meditate
upon thy statutes still.

Zain

Remember, Lord, thy gracious word
thou to thy servant spake,
Which, for a ground of my sure hope,
thou causedst me to take.

This word of thine my comfort is
in mine affliction:
For in my straits I am revived
by this thy word alone.

The men whose hearts with pride are stuffed
did greatly me deride;
Yet from thy straight commandments
I have not turned aside.

Thy judgments righteous, O LORD,
which thou of old forth gave,
I did remember, and myself
by them comforted have.

Horror took hold on me, because
ill men thy law forsake.
I in my house of pilgrimage
thy laws my songs do make.

Thy name by night, LORD, I did mind,
and I have kept thy law.
And this I had, because thy word
I kept, and stood in awe.

Cheth

Thou my sure portion art alone,
which I did choose, O LORD:
I have resolved, and said, that I
would keep thy holy word.

With my whole heart I did entreat
thy face and favour free:
According to thy gracious word
be merciful to me.

I thought upon my former ways,
and did my life well try;
And to thy testimonies pure
my feet then turned I.

I did not stay, nor linger long,
as those that slothful are;
But hastily thy laws to keep
myself I did prepare.

Bands of ill men me robbed; yet I
thy precepts did not slight.
I'll rise at midnight thee to praise,
ev'n for thy judgments right.

I am companion to all those
who fear, and thee obey.
O LORD, thy mercy fills the earth:
teach me thy laws, I pray.

Teth

Well hast thou with thy servant dealt,
as thou didst promise give.
Good judgment me, and knowledge teach,
for I thy word believe.

Ere I afflicted was I strayed;
but now I keep thy word.
Both good thou art, and good thou do'st:
teach me thy statutes, Lord.

The men that are puffed up with pride
against me forged a lie;
Yet thy commandments observe
with my whole heart will I.

Their hearts, through worldly ease and wealth,
as fat as grease they be:
But in thy holy law I take
delight continually.

It hath been very good for me
that I afflicted was,
That I might well instructed be,
and learn thy holy laws.

The word that cometh from thy mouth
is better unto me
Than many thousands and great sums
of gold and silver be.

Jod

Thou mad'st and fashion'dst me: thy laws
to know give wisdom, Lord.
So who thee fear shall joy to see
me trusting in thy word.

That very right thy judgments are
I know, and do confess;
And that thou hast afflicted me
in truth and faithfulness.

O let thy kindness merciful,
I pray thee, comfort me,
As to thy servant faithfully
was promised by thee.

And let thy tender mercies come
to me, that I may live;
Because thy holy laws to me
sweet delectation give.

Lord, let the proud ashamed be;
for they, without a cause,
With me perversely dealt: but I
will muse upon thy laws.

Let such as fear thee, and have known
thy statutes, turn to me.
My heart let in thy laws be sound,
that shamed I never be.

Caph

My soul for thy salvation faints;
yet I thy word believe.
Mine eyes fail for thy word: I say,
When wilt thou comfort give?

For like a bottle I'm become,
that in the smoke is set:
I'm black, and parched with grief; yet I
thy statutes not forget.

How many are thy servant's days?
when wilt thou execute
Just judgment on these wicked men
that do me persecute?

The proud have digged pits for me,
which is against thy laws.
Thy words all faithful are: help me,
pursued without a cause.

They so consumed me, that on earth
my life they scarce did leave:
Thy precepts yet forsook I not,
but close to them did cleave.

After thy loving-kindness, Lord,
me quicken, and preserve:
The testimony of thy mouth
so shall I still observe.

Lamed

Thy word for ever is, O LORD,
in heaven settled fast;
Unto all generations
thy faithfulness doth last:

The earth thou hast established,
and it abides by thee.
This day they stand as thou ordain'dst;
for all thy servants be.

Unless in thy most perfect law
my soul delights had found,
I should have perished, when as
my troubles did abound.

Thy precepts I will ne'er forget;
they quick'ning to me brought.
Lord, I am thine; O save thou me:
thy precepts I have sought.

For me the wicked have laid wait,
me seeking to destroy:
But I thy testimonies true
consider will with joy.

An end of all perfection
here have I seen, O God:
But as for thy commandment,
it is exceeding broad.

Mem

O how love I thy law! it is
my study all the day:
It makes me wiser than my foes;
for it doth with me stay.

Than all my teachers now I have
more understanding far;
Because my meditation
thy testimonies are.

In understanding I excel
those that are ancients;
For I endeavoured to keep
all thy commandments.

My feet from each ill way I stayed,
that I may keep thy word.
I from thy judgments have not swerved;
for thou hast taught me, Lord.

How sweet unto my taste, O Lord,
are all thy words of truth!
Yea, I do find them sweeter far
than honey to my mouth.

I through thy precepts, that are pure,
do understanding get;
I therefore ev'ry way that's false
with all my heart do hate.

Nun

Thy word is to my feet a lamp,
and to my path a light.
I sworn have, and I will perform,
to keep thy judgments right.

I am with sore affliction
ev'n overwhelmed, O LORD:
In mercy raise and quicken me,
according to thy word.

The freewill off'rings of my mouth
accept, I thee beseech:
And unto me thy servant, LORD,
thy judgments clearly teach.

Though still my soul be in my hand,
thy laws I'll not forget.
I erred not from them, though for me
the wicked snares did set.

I of thy testimonies have
above all things made choice,
To be my heritage for aye;
for they my heart rejoice.

I carefully inclined have
my heart still to attend;
That I thy statutes may perform
alway unto the end.

Samech

I hate the thoughts of vanity,
but love thy law do I.
My shield and hiding-place thou art:
I on thy word rely.

All ye that evil-doers are
from me depart away;
For the commandments of my God
I purpose to obey.

According to thy faithful word
uphold and stablish me,
That I may live, and of my hope
ashamed never be.

Hold thou me up, so shall I be
in peace and safety still;
And to thy statutes have respect
continually I will.

Thou tread'st down all that love to stray;
false their deceit doth prove.
Lewd men, like dross, away thou putt'st;
therefore thy law I love.

For fear of thee my very flesh
doth tremble, all dismayed;
And of thy righteous judgments, Lord,
my soul is much afraid.

Ain

To all men I have judgment done,
performing justice right;
Then let me not be left unto
my fierce oppressors' might.

For good unto thy servant, Lord,
thy servant's surety be:
From the oppression of the proud
do thou deliver me.

Mine eyes do fail with looking long
for thy salvation,
The word of thy pure righteousness
while I do wait upon.

In mercy with thy servant deal,
thy laws me teach and show.
I am thy servant, wisdom give,
that I thy laws may know.

'Tis time thou work, LORD; for they have
made void thy law divine.
Therefore thy precepts more I love
than gold, yea, gold most fine.

Concerning all things thy commands
all right I judge therefore;
And ev'ry false and wicked way
I perfectly abhor.

Pe

Thy statutes, Lord, are wonderful,
my soul them keeps with care.
The entrance of thy words gives light,
makes wise who simple are.

My mouth I have wide opened,
and panted earnestly,
While after thy commandments
I longed exceedingly.

Look on me, Lord, and merciful
do thou unto me prove,
As thou art wont to do to those
thy name who truly love.

O let my footsteps in thy word
aright still ordered be:
Let no iniquity obtain
dominion over me.

From man's oppression save thou me;
so keep thy laws I will.
Thy face make on thy servant shine;
teach me thy statutes still.

Rivers of waters from mine eyes
did run down, when I saw
How wicked men run on in sin,
and do not keep thy law.

Tsaddi

O LORD, thou art most righteous;
thy judgments are upright.
Thy testimonies thou command'st
most faithful are and right.

My zeal hath ev'n consumed me,
because mine enemies
Thy holy words forgotten have,
and do thy laws despise.

Thy word's most pure, therefore on it
thy servant's love is set.
Small, and despised I am, yet I
thy precepts not forget.

Thy righteousness is righteousness
which ever doth endure:
Thy holy law, Lord, also is
the very truth most pure.

Trouble and anguish have me found,
and taken hold on me:
Yet in my trouble my delight
thy just commandments be.

Eternal righteousness is in
thy testimonies all:
Lord, to me understanding give,
and ever live I shall.

Koph

With my whole heart I cried, LORD, hear;
I will thy word obey.
I cried to thee; save me, and I
will keep thy laws alway.

I of the morning did prevent
the dawning, and did cry:
For all mine expectation
did on thy word rely.

Mine eyes did timeously prevent
the watches of the night.
That in thy word with careful mind
then meditate I might.

After thy loving-kindness hear
my voice, that calls on thee:
According to thy judgment, LORD,
revive and quicken me.

Who follow mischief they draw nigh;
they from thy law are far:
But thou art near, LORD; most firm truth
all thy commandments are.

As for thy testimonies all,
of old this have I tried,
That thou hast surely founded them
for ever to abide.

Resh

Consider mine affliction,
in safety do me set:
Deliver me, O Lord, for I
thy law do not forget.

After thy word revive thou me:
save me, and plead my cause.
Salvation is from sinners far;
for they seek not thy laws.

O LORD, both great and manifold
thy tender mercies be:
According to thy judgments just,
revive and quicken me.

My persecutors many are,
and foes that do combine;
Yet from thy testimonies pure
my heart doth not decline.

I saw transgressors, and was grieved;
for they keep not thy word.
See how I love thy law! as thou
art kind, me quicken, LORD.

From the beginning all thy word
hath been most true and sure:
Thy righteous judgments ev'ry one
for evermore endure.

Schin

Princes have persecuted me,
although no cause they saw:
But still of thy most holy word
my heart doth stand in awe.

I at thy word rejoice, as one
of spoil that finds great store.
Thy law I love; but lying all
I hate and do abhor.

Sev'n times a-day it is my care
to give due praise to thee;
Because of all thy judgments, Lord,
which righteous ever be.

Great peace have they who love thy law;
offence they shall have none.
I hoped for thy salvation, LORD,
and thy commands have done.

My soul thy testimonies pure
observed carefully;
On them my heart is set, and them
I love exceedingly.

Thy testimonies and thy laws
I kept with special care;
For all my works and ways each one
before thee open are.

Tau

O let my earnest pray'r and cry
come near before thee, LORD:
Give understanding unto me,
according to thy word.

Let my request before thee come:
after thy word me free.
My lips shall utter praise, when thou
hast taught thy laws to me.

My tongue of thy most blessed word
shall speak, and it confess;
Because all thy commandments
are perfect righteousness.

Let thy strong hand make help to me:
thy precepts are my choice.
I longed for thy salvation, LORD,
and in thy law rejoice.

O let my soul live, and it shall
give praises unto thee;
And let thy judgments gracious
be helpful unto me.

I, like a lost sheep, went astray;
thy servant seek, and find:
For thy commands I suffered not
to slip out of my mind.