### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **piqqûwd**, represented by `{{H6490}}`, refers to a divinely appointed mandate, precept, or statute. Its base definition points to something "properly, appointed," specifically a command from God. It appears 24 times across 24 unique verses, primarily in the Psalms, highlighting its role within the context of worship and devotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6490}}` is almost exclusively found in the Psalms, where the psalmist expresses a deep relationship with God's law. The precepts are described as **right**, bringing joy to the heart [[Psalms 19:8]], and as **sure** `{{H539}}` [[Psalms 111:7]]. Adherence to these precepts is an active and diligent pursuit. The faithful are commanded to **keep** `{{H8104}}` them diligently [[Psalms 119:4]], to **seek** `{{H1875}}` them to find liberty [[Psalms 119:45]], and to **meditate** `{{H7878}}` on them [[Psalms 119:15]]. Forsaking them is a great danger, even when facing persecution from the wicked ([[Psalms 119:87]], [[Psalms 119:110]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of God's appointed mandates:
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar** (to keep, guard, observe): This word describes the act of obedience and protection. It is a frequent companion to `{{H6490}}`, emphasizing the active responsibility to guard God's precepts, as seen in the command to **keep** them diligently [[Psalms 119:4]].
* `{{H1875}}` **dârash** (to seek, ask): This verb highlights the intentional pursuit required to know God's will. The psalmist declares that he walks at liberty because he **seeks** God's precepts [[Psalms 119:45]] and cries out for salvation because he has **sought** them [[Psalms 119:94]].
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn** (to understand): This term signifies the mental and spiritual insight that comes from God's law. The psalmist states that through God's precepts he gets **understanding** [[Psalms 119:104]] and even understands more than the ancients [[Psalms 119:100]].
* `{{H4687}}` **mitsvâh** (commandment, law): Often used as a parallel term, **mitsvâh** refers more broadly to a command. In [[Psalms 19:8]], God's statutes `{{H6490}}` are praised for being right, while His **commandment** `{{H4687}}` is praised for being pure.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6490}}` is centered on the believer's response to God's revealed will.
* **A Source of Life:** The precepts are portrayed as life-giving. The psalmist declares his longing for them and asks God to **quicken** `{{H2421}}` him in His righteousness [[Psalms 119:40]]. He vows never to forget them because through them God has **quickened** him [[Psalms 119:93]].
* **The Path to Understanding:** Obedience to God's precepts is directly linked to gaining wisdom. By keeping them, the psalmist gains **understanding** `{{H995}}` and learns to hate every false way [[Psalms 119:104]]. God is asked to provide understanding of the way of His precepts [[Psalms 119:27]].
* **An Act of Devotion and Choice:** Following the precepts is not a passive duty but an active choice of the heart. The psalmist asks for help because "I have **chosen** `{{H977}}` thy precepts" [[Psalms 119:173]]. This choice is rooted in affection, as he asks God to "Consider how I **love** `{{H157}}` thy precepts" [[Psalms 119:159]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6490}}` is more than a list of rules; it represents the divinely appointed instructions that guide a life of faithfulness. These precepts are a source of joy, life, and profound understanding. The psalmist's relationship with them—choosing, seeking, loving, and keeping them—demonstrates that true obedience is an act of heartfelt devotion that shapes one's entire existence and relationship with God.
TRV