Psalm 119 – A Summary

Now that I have finished writing an entry for each stanza of Psalm 119, I hope you have seen, like the rest of the book of Psalms, it has a distinct arc and flow to it. I have tried to summarize (below) what I think is the main theme of each stanza of Psalm 119, but as with these things, my thoughts may change the longer I study it. But I think it’s a good start!

I would challenge you to read it for yourself and see if you find the same themes, and if not, let me know. I’d love to see what you see in the scripture!

Psalm 119:1-8 (Aleph) – I long to keep the Lord’s law!
Psalm 119:9-16 (Beth) – I long to meditate on the Lord’s law!
Psalm 119:17-24 (Gimel) – I delight in the depths of the Lord’s law!
Psalm 119:25-32 (Daleth) – I long to understand the word of the Lord!
Psalm 119:33-40 (He) – My only delight is in the Lord’s law!
Psalm 119:41-48 (Waw) – I trust in the Lord’s law, which is my only salvation.
Psalm 119:49-56 (Zayin) – I find hope and comfort in the Lord’s law.
Psalm 119:57-64 (Heth) – The Lord’s law is my only source of hope in times of trouble.
Psalm 119:65-72 (Teth) – Affliction has come upon me.
Psalm 119:73-80 (Yodh) – Let my affliction turn others to God.
Psalm 119:81-88 (Kaph) – How long must I be afflicted?
Psalm 119:89-96 (Lamedh) – The Lord’s law has helped me endure my affliction.
Psalm 119:97-104 (Mem) – The Lord’s law gives me understanding and wisdom.
Psalm 119:105-112 (Nun) – The Lord’s law leads me through life’s snares and afflictions.
Psalm 119:113-120 (Samekh) – The Lord’s law protects and shields me.
Psalm 119:121-128 (Ayin) – I long for the Lord’s promised salvation.
Psalm 119:129-136 (Pe) – I need the Lord’s help to keep his commandments.
Psalm 119:137-144 (Tsadhe) – The Lord’s eternally righteous words delight me.
Psalm 119:145-152 (Qoph) – I will continually meditate on the Lord’s law.
Psalm 119:153-160 (Resh) – I long for the life and steadfast love the Lord’s law promises.
Psalm 119:161-168 (Sin & Shin) – I love the Lord’s law even though I am being persecuted.
Psalm 119:169-176 (Taw) – Hear my cry for help and accept my praise because I delight in the Lord’s law.