Psalms 119:15

King James Version:

(The Lord speaking is red text)

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

Complete Jewish Bible:

I will meditate on your precepts and keep my eyes on your ways.

Berean Standard Bible:

I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways.

American Standard Version:

I will meditate on thy precepts, And have respect unto thy ways.

KJV with Strong’s Numbers:

I will meditate^{H7878} in thy precepts^{H6490}, and have respect^{H5027} unto thy ways^{H734}.

Cross-References (KJV):

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Commentary for Psalms 119:15

Psalm 119:15, "I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways," is part of the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119, which is an acrostic poem extolling the virtues of God's law. Each of the 22 stanzas of the poem begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, with eight verses per stanza, and the theme throughout is the beauty, power, and value of God's revealed will through the Torah, the Law.

In verse 15, the psalmist expresses a personal commitment to engage deeply with God's precepts. The Hebrew word for "meditate" (הָגָה, hagah) implies a deep, contemplative focus, often associated with the careful study and rumination of scripture. This suggests an intentional and consistent practice of reflection on God's teachings, not just a casual or passing thought.

The phrase "thy precepts" refers to the specific instructions or commandments of God, indicating the psalmist's desire to align his thoughts and actions with divine principles. Additionally, "have respect unto thy ways" acknowledges God's paths or methods of operating in the world. It reflects a recognition of God's sovereignty and a commitment to live in a manner that honors God's character and actions.

Historically, this verse reflects the deep reverence for the Law that was characteristic of many Israelites during the time when the Psalms were written, which spans several centuries. The emphasis on meditating on the Law would have resonated with a community that held the Torah as the central guide for life and worship.

In summary, Psalm 119:15 encapsulates the psalmist's dedication to a life centered on God's commandments, a commitment to contemplative engagement with divine instruction, and a reverential approach to living in accordance with God's will. This verse underscores the importance of scriptural meditation and respect for God's ways as integral to a faithful life within the context of ancient Israelite religion.

*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model

Strong's Numbers and Definitions:

Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)

1. Strong's Number: H7878
   There are 20 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: שִׂיחַ
   Transliteration: sîyach
   Pronunciation: see'-akh
   Description: a primitive root; to ponder, i.e. (by implication) converse (with oneself, and hence, aloud) or (transitively) utter; commune, complain, declare, meditate, muse, pray, speak, talk (with).
   
2. Strong's Number: H6490
   There are 24 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: פִּקּוּד
   Transliteration: piqqûwd
   Pronunciation: pik-kood'
   Description: or פִּקֻּד; from פָּקַד; properly, appointed, i.e. a mandate (of God; plural only, collectively, for the Law); commandment, precept, statute.
   
3. Strong's Number: H5027
   There are 67 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: נָבַט
   Transliteration: nâbaṭ
   Pronunciation: naw-bat'
   Description: a primitive root; to scan, i.e. look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care; (cause to) behold, consider, look (down), regard, have respect, see.
   
4. Strong's Number: H734
   There are 257 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: אֹרַח
   Transliteration: ʼôrach
   Pronunciation: o'-rakh
   Description: from אָרַח; a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan; manner, path, race, rank, traveller, troop, (by-, high-) way.