Psalms 119:57

KJV

¶ CHETH. [Thou art] my portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words.

KJV (with Strong's)

CHETH. Thou art my portion {H2506}, O LORD {H3068}: I have said {H559} that I would keep {H8104} thy words {H1697}.

Complete Jewish Bible

(Het) ADONAI, I say that my task is to observe your words.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD is my portion; I have promised to keep Your words.

American Standard Version

Jehovah is my portion: I have said that I would observe thy words.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 119:57 stands as a profound declaration of the psalmist's ultimate allegiance and source of satisfaction, proclaiming the Lord as his exclusive "portion." This foundational confession is immediately followed by a resolute commitment to obey God's "words," establishing a direct and inseparable link between one's identity rooted in God and one's dedication to His revealed will. The verse encapsulates a core tenet of biblical faith: that true devotion to God naturally expresses itself in diligent adherence to His commands, revealing a life wholly surrendered to divine sovereignty and wisdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 119 is the longest psalm in the biblical canon, meticulously structured as an acrostic poem based on the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Each of its 22 sections comprises eight verses, with every verse in a given section commencing with the Hebrew letter assigned to that section. Verse 57 falls within the `CHETH` section (verses 57-64), where the psalmist continues his deep meditation on, and unwavering commitment to, God's law, statutes, precepts, and testimonies. This particular section, marked by `CHETH`, emphasizes the intensely personal relationship with God ("Thou art my portion") as the primary impetus for the psalmist's steadfast resolve to keep His commands. It sets a tone of intimate devotion and determined obedience that not only pervades this section but also serves as a thematic anchor for the entire psalm's celebration of God's Word.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of "portion" (Hebrew: *chêleq*) is deeply rooted in ancient Israelite land distribution and inheritance practices. When the land of Canaan was divided among the tribes, the priestly tribe of Levi uniquely received no territorial inheritance; instead, the Lord Himself was declared their inheritance or "portion" [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance"). This established a profound theological precedent, signifying that God's people, particularly those consecrated to His service, found their ultimate security, sustenance, and satisfaction not in material possessions or land, but in their direct relationship with God. The psalmist's declaration in this verse extends this priestly concept to all believers, asserting that God is the supreme and all-sufficient inheritance for every individual who trusts in Him, transcending any earthly allotment or material possession.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates two interconnected themes central to Psalm 119 and, indeed, to the broader biblical narrative: the **Sufficiency of God** and the **Indispensability of Obedience to God's Word**. By declaring God as his "portion," the psalmist affirms God's complete adequacy as the exclusive source of all good, security, and joy, contrasting Him with the fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying pursuits of the world. This profound conviction then naturally leads to the second theme: a deliberate and steadfast commitment to "keep thy words." This highlights that genuine love for and reliance on God is inextricably linked to a life lived in accordance with His revealed will, a truth echoed throughout the Scriptures, from the foundational commands of [Deuteronomy 6:5-6](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5-6 - Love God and Keep His Commands") to the New Testament teachings of [John 14:15](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - If You Love Me, Keep My Commandments").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Portion (Hebrew, _chêleq'_):** This term (H2506) denotes an allotted share, inheritance, or possession. In a theological context, as seen in the Levitical inheritance [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance") and other psalms [Psalm 73:26](/psalms/73-26 "Psalm 73:26 - God is My Portion Forever"), it conveys the profound idea that God Himself is the ultimate source of one's sustenance, security, joy, and identity. Declaring God as one's *chêleq* is an act of profound spiritual surrender and trust, acknowledging Him as the supreme good and the only truly lasting inheritance, implying a complete reliance and satisfaction found solely in Him, rather than in worldly goods, status, or power.
* **Said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** The verb (H559) signifies "to say" with great latitude, encompassing declarations, commands, promises, or even thoughts. In this context, "I have said" indicates a deliberate, volitional act—a conscious decision, a solemn declaration, or even a vow. It underscores that the psalmist's commitment is not a passive acceptance but an active, spoken resolve, emphasizing the intentionality and personal responsibility behind his subsequent pledge to obey God's words.
* **Words (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This versatile term (H1697) refers to a "word," but by implication, it can also mean a "matter," "thing," "decree," "commandment," or "affair." In Psalm 119, "thy words" collectively refers to God's revealed truth in its entirety—His commandments, statutes, precepts, testimonies, and promises. It encompasses the divine will and instruction that guides human life. The psalmist's commitment is not to isolated commands but to the comprehensive body of God's communication, which is the foundation of truth and wisdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ CHETH. [Thou art] my portion, O LORD":** The `CHETH` (ח) serves as an acrostic marker, signaling the beginning of the eighth section of this extensive psalm. The declaration "Thou art my portion, O LORD" is a foundational statement of faith and identity. It asserts that God, YHWH (H3068), is the psalmist's ultimate inheritance, the exclusive source of his satisfaction, security, and all good. This is not merely a belief *about* God, but a deeply personal, intimate confession that God is the supreme object of his desire and the sole ground of his existence and well-being. It implies a complete reliance on God above all earthly possessions, achievements, or pursuits.
* **"I have said":** This phrase emphasizes the psalmist's deliberate and volitional commitment. It is not a passive thought or a fleeting emotion, but an active, declared resolution. The psalmist has *resolved* and *articulated* his intention, highlighting the intentionality and personal responsibility behind the subsequent pledge. This conscious decision stems from the prior confession of God as his ultimate portion, signifying a will aligned with divine truth.
* **"that I would keep thy words":** This clause is the direct consequence and outward expression of the preceding declarations. Because the Lord is his ultimate portion and the wellspring of his life, the psalmist's natural, determined, and joyful response is to live in alignment with God's revealed will. "Thy words" refers to God's entire body of divine instruction—His commandments, statutes, precepts, and testimonies. The commitment to "keep" them (H8104, *shâmar*) signifies a lifelong dedication to obeying, guarding, preserving, and diligently observing these divine instructions as the guiding principles for all of life, reflecting a deep respect for God's authority and wisdom.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 119:57 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is the overarching **Acrostic Structure** of Psalm 119 itself, where the `CHETH` (ח) marks this verse as part of a larger, meticulously crafted poetic form that emphasizes the comprehensive and orderly nature of God's Word. The phrase "Thou art my portion, O LORD" utilizes **Metaphor**, comparing God to an inherited share or allotment, thereby elevating Him above all earthly possessions and positioning Him as the ultimate source of sustenance and security. The verse also functions as a powerful **Declaration** and a solemn **Pledge**, with the psalmist first declaring a profound truth about God ("Thou art my portion") and then making a resolute vow ("I have said that I would keep thy words"). This sequence establishes a clear **Cause-and-Effect** relationship between theological conviction and ethical living, highlighting the volitional commitment required in the life of faith.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound declaration in Psalms 119:57 encapsulates a core theological truth: that the believer's ultimate security, satisfaction, and identity are found exclusively in God, which naturally compels a life of devoted obedience to His revealed will. The psalmist's assertion of God as his "portion" is not merely a poetic expression but a deep theological statement about God's absolute sufficiency and sovereignty as the sole source of true life and blessing. This conviction then serves as the indispensable foundation for a steadfast commitment to "keep thy words," demonstrating that genuine love for God is intrinsically linked to active adherence to His commands. This verse beautifully illustrates the covenantal relationship, where God's self-revelation and provision evoke a response of faithful allegiance and obedience from His people, establishing a dynamic where knowing God profoundly transforms one's will and actions.

* [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance")
* [Lamentations 3:24](/lamentations/3-24 "Lamentations 3:24 - The Lord is My Portion")
* [Psalm 73:26](/psalms/73-26 "Psalm 73:26 - God is the Strength of My Heart and My Portion Forever")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 119:57 calls us to a radical reorientation of our priorities and affections, inviting us to examine the deepest desires of our hearts. In a world constantly vying for our attention and offering fleeting satisfactions, this verse challenges us to ask: What truly constitutes my "portion"? Where do I seek my ultimate security, joy, and fulfillment? When we genuinely declare the Lord as our portion, it means we find our deepest satisfaction and sufficiency in Him alone, recognizing that all other pursuits—be they wealth, status, relationships, or personal comfort—are secondary and ultimately incapable of providing lasting contentment. This profound conviction then serves as the wellspring for a life of intentional obedience. Our commitment to "keep thy words" becomes not a burdensome duty, but a joyful and natural response to the One who is our all-sufficient inheritance. It invites us to examine whether our daily choices, our use of time and resources, and our aspirations truly reflect this foundational declaration, prompting us to live out our faith with steadfast devotion to God's commands, knowing that in Him alone is true life found.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I practically live out the truth that the Lord is my "portion" above all else?**
* **What worldly "portions" (e.g., career, possessions, relationships, comfort) might be subtly competing with God for ultimate place in my heart?**
* **How does my commitment to "keep thy words" demonstrate my love and reliance on God as my portion?**
* **What specific steps can I take to more diligently "keep" God's words in my daily life, reflecting His supremacy as my portion?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "CHETH" at the beginning of Psalms 119:57?**

Answer: The "CHETH" (ח) is the eighth letter of the Hebrew alphabet and marks the beginning of the eighth stanza (verses 57-64) of Psalm 119. Psalm 119 is an elaborate acrostic poem, meaning each of its 22 sections corresponds to a letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and all eight verses within each section begin with that specific letter. The inclusion of "CHETH" here is primarily a structural and mnemonic device, reinforcing the psalm's meticulous design and its comprehensive praise of God's Word. While individual Hebrew letters sometimes carry symbolic meanings, in the context of this psalm, its primary function is to maintain the intricate poetic structure, guiding the reader through the psalmist's extensive meditation on the divine law and emphasizing the exhaustive nature of his devotion.

**How does declaring God as "my portion" relate to the commitment to "keep thy words"?**

Answer: These two declarations in Psalms 119:57 are intrinsically linked, forming a powerful cause-and-effect relationship. Declaring God as "my portion" (Hebrew: *chêleq*) signifies that the psalmist finds his ultimate satisfaction, security, and inheritance in God alone, rather than in any earthly possession or pursuit. This deep conviction of God's all-sufficiency and supreme value naturally leads to a resolute commitment to "keep thy words." When God is truly our ultimate treasure and source of life, our desire to obey His commands flows organically from that relationship. Obedience becomes a joyful expression of love and trust, a demonstration that we value His revealed will because we value Him above all else. It's a testament to the idea that true devotion to God is inseparable from a life lived in accordance with His divine instructions, as Jesus Himself taught in [John 14:15](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - If You Love Me, Keep My Commandments") and [John 15:10](/john/15-10 "John 15:10 - Abide in My Love by Keeping My Commandments").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 119:57 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the believer's true and eternal portion, and through whom we are empowered to truly keep God's words. In the New Testament, Christ is revealed as the ultimate inheritance for believers, far surpassing any earthly portion or material possession. [Colossians 1:12](/colossians/1-12 "Colossians 1:12 - Inheritance in the Saints in Light") speaks of being made "fit to share in the inheritance of the saints in light," an inheritance fully realized and secured in Christ. [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ") further clarifies that "in him we have obtained an inheritance," emphasizing that our spiritual wealth and identity are found solely in Him. Jesus not only embodies the perfect "portion" for humanity, providing complete satisfaction, security, and eternal life, but He also perfectly fulfilled the command to "keep thy words." His entire life was one of complete and unwavering obedience to the Father's will ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does What Pleases the Father"); [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Moreover, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, believers are now enabled to live out the commitment to "keep thy words," not by their own strength or legalistic effort, but by the transformative power of Christ within them, fulfilling the righteous requirement of the law ([Romans 8:4](/romans/8-4 "Romans 8:4 - The Righteous Requirement of the Law Fulfilled in Us")). Thus, Christ is both the ultimate portion we receive and the perfect example and divine enabler of the obedience we are called to render, fulfilling the psalmist's longing for God and His Word in a way only God Himself could provide.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Lamentations 3:24

The LORD [is] my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.

Psalms 16:5

The LORD [is] the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.

Psalms 142:5

I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou [art] my refuge [and] my portion in the land of the living.

Psalms 73:26

My flesh and my heart faileth: [but] God [is] the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

Jeremiah 10:16

The portion of Jacob [is] not like them: for he [is] the former of all [things]; and Israel [is] the rod of his inheritance: The LORD of hosts [is] his name.

Psalms 119:115

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

Joshua 24:18

And the LORD drave out from before us all the people, even the Amorites which dwelt in the land: [therefore] will we also serve the LORD; for he [is] our God.