Psalms 119:79

Translation
King James Version
Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Let those that fear H3373 thee turn H7725 unto me, and those that have known H3045 H3045 thy testimonies H5713.
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Complete Jewish Bible
Let those who fear you turn to me, along with those who know your instruction.
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Berean Standard Bible
May those who fear You turn to me, those who know Your testimonies.
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American Standard Version
Let those that fear thee turn unto me; And they shall know thy testimonies.
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World English Bible Messianic
Let those who fear you turn to me. They will know your statutes.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Let such as feare thee turne vnto me, and they that knowe thy testimonies.
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Young's Literal Translation
Those fearing Thee turn back to me, And those knowing Thy testimonies.
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See also
Psalms 119:74Psalms 142:7Psalms 119:63Psalms 7:7
In the KJVVerse 15,978 of 31,102

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SUMMARY

Psalms 119:79 is a heartfelt prayer from the psalmist, expressing a profound desire for companionship and solidarity with those who genuinely revere God and are intimately acquainted with His divine revelations. Amidst potential isolation or opposition, the psalmist longs for the fellowship of like-minded believers whose lives are marked by both a reverent awe of the Lord and a deep, experiential knowledge of His testimonies, recognizing the vital importance of shared faith and mutual encouragement in walking God's path.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Psalms 119 is the longest psalm in the biblical canon, an elaborate acrostic poem structured around the Hebrew alphabet, with each of its 22 sections containing eight verses beginning with the same Hebrew letter. This particular verse, Psalms 119:79, falls within the section corresponding to the letter 'Ayin' (ע). The preceding verses in this section (Psalms 119:73-78) often reflect the psalmist's personal struggles, his plea for God's comfort and mercy, and his steadfast commitment to God's law despite affliction or the scorn of the proud. For instance, Psalms 119:75 acknowledges God's righteous judgments even in suffering, and Psalms 119:77 appeals for God's tender mercies. Verse 79, then, shifts from a focus on personal petition to a desire for communal support, seeking out those who share his spiritual convictions as a source of strength and affirmation in his devotion to God's ways.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: While Psalms 119 does not specify a precise historical setting, its themes resonate with the experiences of devout Israelites throughout their history. The emphasis on God's law (Torah) reflects the centrality of the Mosaic covenant in Israelite life. In a society where adherence to God's commands was paramount, yet often challenged by internal apostasy or external pressures, the longing for fellowship with true believers was deeply significant. The "fear of the Lord" (יִרְאַת יְהוָה, yir'at YHWH) was a foundational concept, denoting not terror but a profound reverence, respect, and humble submission to God's authority, leading to obedience and worship. This was the mark of a righteous individual in ancient Israel, often distinguishing them from those who disregarded God's statutes. The "testimonies" (עֵדֹת, 'edot) refer to God's divine decrees and covenant stipulations, understood as witnesses to His character and will, which were taught and passed down through generations.
  • Key Themes: Psalms 119:79 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalms 119 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the importance of spiritual community and fellowship among believers, highlighting the need for mutual encouragement and solidarity in faith, particularly when facing adversity or isolation. This echoes the sentiment found in Malachi 3:16. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the centrality of the "fear of the Lord" as the bedrock of true wisdom and godliness. This reverential awe is not merely an emotion but a principle that guides one's entire life, leading to obedience and devotion, as articulated in Proverbs 9:10. Finally, it champions the profound value of God's testimonies (His Word), not just as intellectual knowledge but as a transformative truth that shapes one's identity and conduct. The psalmist's desire to connect with those who "have known thy testimonies" implies a shared commitment to living by God's revealed will, a theme that permeates every verse of Psalms 119.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Fear (Hebrew, yârêʼ, H3373): Derived from the primitive root H3373, this word denotes a profound reverence, awe, and respect for God, rather than mere terror or dread. It signifies a humble submission to His authority, a recognition of His holiness and majesty, and a desire to please Him through obedience. In biblical thought, the "fear of the Lord" is often presented as the beginning of wisdom and the foundation of true godliness, leading to a life of integrity and devotion.
  • Turn (Hebrew, shûwb, H7725): From the primitive root H7725, this verb means "to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively." In this context, it carries the nuance of turning towards someone, seeking their company, aligning with them, or returning to a place of fellowship. It implies a deliberate act of association and connection, a desire for spiritual proximity and shared purpose with the psalmist, suggesting a movement from potential separation or distance to a place of shared community.
  • Known (Hebrew, yâdaʻ, H3045): This participle comes from the primitive root H3045, which signifies not just intellectual understanding, but deep, intimate, experiential knowledge. It implies personal acquaintance, recognition, and practical adherence. To "know" God's testimonies means to have internalized them, to live by them, and to have experienced their truth and power in one's life, rather than merely having a superficial awareness.
  • Testimonies (Hebrew, ʻêdâh, H5713): This term (H5713) refers to God's divine pronouncements, decrees, laws, or precepts. The root means "witness," suggesting that God's testimonies are His self-revelations, bearing witness to His character, His will, and His covenant relationship with His people. They are the divine standards by which humanity is to live, serving as a guide for righteous conduct and a revelation of God's truth.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Let those that fear thee turn unto me": This clause expresses the psalmist's earnest petition to God, requesting that individuals who genuinely hold God in reverential awe and respect would seek him out and associate with him. It highlights a longing for spiritual solidarity and shared commitment among those who prioritize God's glory and His commands above all else. The psalmist desires companionship with those whose lives are characterized by true piety and devotion.
  • "and those that have known thy testimonies": This second clause further defines and qualifies the group of people the psalmist wishes to connect with. It specifies that these are not merely those who intellectually acknowledge God's laws, but those who possess an intimate, experiential knowledge of His divine revelations. Their understanding of God's testimonies is not theoretical but practical, shaping their lives and demonstrating their deep appreciation for God's truth. This parallel clause reinforces the idea that true fear of God is inextricably linked with a profound engagement with His Word.

Literary Devices

Psalms 119:79 masterfully employs Parallelism, a hallmark of Hebrew poetry. Specifically, it uses Synonymous Parallelism, where the second line or clause reiterates or further develops the thought of the first line using different words. "Those that fear thee" is paralleled by "those that have known thy testimonies," describing the same group of devout individuals from two complementary perspectives. This reinforces the idea that genuine reverence for God (fear) is inseparable from an intimate understanding and adherence to His revealed will (testimonies). The verse also functions as a Prayer or Petition, as indicated by the optative "Let those... turn unto me," signifying a direct appeal to God. Furthermore, the phrases "fear thee" and "known thy testimonies" can be seen as forms of Metonymy or Synecdoche, where a characteristic or part of a person (their fear of God, their knowledge of His Word) stands in for the entire person or their spiritual disposition.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Psalms 119:79 powerfully articulates the profound human need for spiritual community, particularly among those who are committed to God's truth in a world often hostile to it. It underscores that the journey of faith is not meant to be solitary but is enriched and sustained by fellowship with like-minded believers. The psalmist's longing for those who "fear thee" and "have known thy testimonies" reflects a desire for accountability, mutual encouragement, and shared devotion, recognizing that such relationships are vital for perseverance and growth in godliness. This verse resonates deeply with the biblical emphasis on the corporate nature of faith, where believers are called to gather, support, and spur one another on in their walk with God.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Psalms 119:79 offers a timeless invitation to examine the nature of our spiritual relationships and the priorities that define our community. In an age where digital connections often replace meaningful personal interaction, and where biblical literacy can be superficial, the psalmist's plea serves as a powerful reminder of the value of genuine, faith-centered fellowship. It challenges us to actively seek out and cultivate relationships with those who not only profess faith but demonstrably live out a reverential fear of God and a deep, experiential knowledge of His Word. Such connections provide vital encouragement, accountability, and a shared foundation for navigating life's challenges, ensuring that our spiritual journey is not isolated but mutually enriched. This verse encourages us to be intentional about building communities where God's truth is cherished, and His glory is the central focus, fostering environments where believers can truly "turn unto" one another for support and growth.

Questions for Reflection

  • Who are the people in your life with whom you can truly say you share a deep fear of the Lord and an intimate knowledge of His testimonies?
  • In what ways do you actively seek out and cultivate fellowship with like-minded believers who can encourage your walk with God?
  • How does your personal engagement with God's Word contribute to your ability to connect authentically with others who also know His testimonies?
  • What steps can you take to foster a greater sense of shared reverence for God and devotion to His Word within your spiritual community?

FAQ

What does it mean to "fear God" in the biblical sense?

Answer: To "fear God" in the biblical sense, as seen in Psalms 119:79, does not primarily mean to be terrified of Him. Instead, it signifies a profound reverence, awe, respect, and humble submission to His majestic authority and holiness. It is an attitude of worship and obedience that flows from recognizing God's supreme power, wisdom, and goodness. This "fear" leads to a desire to please Him, to live according to His will, and to avoid anything that would displease Him. It is often described as the "beginning of wisdom," as in Proverbs 9:10, because it rightly positions humanity in relation to their Creator and serves as the foundation for true knowledge and righteous living.

Why is it important to know God's "testimonies"?

Answer: Knowing God's "testimonies" is crucial because these are His divine pronouncements, laws, and revealed will, which serve as witnesses to His character and His covenant relationship with humanity. As Psalms 119:79 implies, this knowledge is not merely intellectual but experiential and transformative. God's testimonies provide guidance for righteous living, reveal His truth, and illuminate the path to a life pleasing to Him. They are the standard by which believers discern right from wrong, understand God's purposes, and grow in their relationship with Him. Without knowing His testimonies, one cannot truly "fear" Him in the way the Bible describes, nor can one walk in obedience and wisdom. The entire Psalms 119 is a testament to the life-giving and soul-nourishing power of God's Word.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Psalms 119:79, with its longing for fellowship among those who fear God and know His testimonies, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the community He establishes. Jesus Himself perfectly embodied the "fear of the Lord," living a life of absolute obedience and reverence towards His Father, even to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). He is also the living Word, the ultimate "Testimony" of God, through whom all of God's truth and will are fully revealed (John 1:1, John 14:6). When believers "turn unto" one another, they do so as those who have been united to Christ by the Holy Spirit. Our shared "fear" of God is now a filial reverence as adopted children (Romans 8:15), and our "knowledge of His testimonies" is rooted in understanding God's revelation in Christ, who is the sum and substance of all Scripture (Luke 24:27). The Church, as the body of Christ, is the very community where those who fear God and know His testimonies are brought together, not just for mutual support, but to worship the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world and to proclaim His excellencies (1 Peter 2:9). Thus, the psalmist's yearning for a community of the devout is fully realized in the fellowship of believers centered on Christ, who is both our reverence and our revelation.

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Commentary on Psalms 119 verses 78–79

Here David shows,

I. How little he valued the will - will of sinners. There were those that dealt perversely with him, that were peevish and ill-conditioned towards him, that sought advantages against him, and misconstrued all he said and did. Even those that deal most fairly may meet with those that deal perversely. But David regarded it not, for, 1. He knew it was without cause, and that for his love they were his adversaries. The causeless reproach, like the curse causeless, may be easily slighted; it does not hurt us, and therefore should not move us. 2. He could pray, in faith, that they might be ashamed of it; God's dealing favourably with him might make them ashamed to think that they had dealt perversely with him. "Let them be ashamed, that is, let them be brought either to repentance or to ruin." 3. He could go on in the way of his duty, and find comfort in that. "However they deal with me, I will meditate in thy precepts, and entertain myself with them."

II. How much he valued the good-will of saints, and how desirous he was to stand right in their opinion, and keep up his interest in them and communion with them: Let those that fear thee turn to me. He does not mean so much that they might side with him, and take up arms in his cause, as that they might love him, and pray for him, and associate with him. Good men desire the friendship and society of those that are good. Some think it intimates that when David had been guilty of that foul sin in the murder of Uriah, though he was a king, those that feared God grew strange to him and turned from him, for they were ashamed of him; this troubled him, and therefore he prays, Lord, let them turn to me again. He desires especially the company of those that were not only honest, but intelligent, that have known thy testimonies, have good heads as well as good hearts, and whose conversation will be edifying. It is desirable to have an intimacy with such.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 78–79. Public domain.
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Augustine of HippoAD 430
Exposition on Psalm 119
"Let such as fear You," he says, "and have known Your testimonies, be turned unto me" [Psalm 119:79]. But who is he who says this? For no mortal will venture to say this, or if he say it, should be listened to. Indeed, it is He who above also has interposed His own words, saying, "I am a partaker with all them that fear You." Because He was made sharer in our mortal state, that we might also become partakers in His Divine Nature, we became sharers in One unto life, He a sharer in many unto death. He it is unto whom they that fear God turn, and who know the testimonies of God, so long before predicted of Him through the Prophets, a little before displayed in His presence through miracles.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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