(The Lord speaking is red text)
I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as [much as] in all riches.
I rejoice in the way of your instruction more than in any kind of wealth.
I rejoice in the way of Your testimonies as much as in all riches.
I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, As much as in all riches.
I have rejoiced{H7797} in the way{H1870} of thy testimonies{H5715}, as much as in{H5921} all riches{H1952}.
Psalm 119:14 is part of the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119, which is an acrostic poem consisting of 22 stanzas, each stanza beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The psalm is a meditation on the Torah, or the Law of God, and each stanza extols the virtues of living according to God's commandments.
In verse 14, the psalmist declares, "I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as [much as] in all riches." This verse reflects the theme of joy and contentment found in adherence to God's word. The "testimonies" refer to the teachings and laws of God as revealed in the Scriptures. The psalmist expresses that the joy derived from following God's testimonies is comparable to, or even surpasses, the joy one might experience from possessing great wealth.
The historical context of this verse is rooted in the religious life of ancient Israel, where the Law was central to the covenant relationship between God and His people. The psalmist's affirmation of joy in the Law would resonate with a contemporary audience for whom the Torah was not just a legal code but a source of wisdom, guidance, and spiritual nourishment. The verse suggests that true happiness is not found in material possessions but in a life aligned with divine principles.
In summary, Psalm 119:14 emphasizes the intrinsic value of God's word, equating the joy of living by the Scriptures with the happiness derived from great wealth. It underscores the idea that spiritual riches are more fulfilling than material abundance, reflecting a key theme in biblical wisdom literature that aligns with the broader teachings of the Hebrew Bible.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)