Psalm 119 33

Psalm 119:33 kjv

Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.

Psalm 119:33 nkjv

Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, And I shall keep it to the end.

Psalm 119:33 niv

Teach me, LORD, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end.

Psalm 119:33 esv

Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end.

Psalm 119:33 nlt

Teach me your decrees, O LORD;
I will keep them to the end.

Psalm 119 verses

Psalm 119 33 Meaning

Psalm 119:33 is a fervent prayer from the psalmist to God, seeking divine instruction and guidance concerning the pathway of God's decrees. It expresses a deep longing not just for intellectual understanding but for practical direction on how to walk according to His established laws. Coupled with this petition is a solemn commitment to diligently observe and persevere in obeying these statutes for the entirety of their life, demonstrating a steadfast devotion to God's will.

Psalm 119 33 Context

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, a magnificent acrostic poem structured around the Hebrew alphabet. Each of its 22 sections, comprising eight verses each, begins with a successive letter of the alphabet. The entire psalm is a rich tapestry weaving together praises for God's law, a deep love for His Word, and earnest petitions for understanding and ability to obey it. The psalmist frequently uses eight primary synonyms for God's law—such as statutes, precepts, decrees, commandments, and judgments—to highlight its multi-faceted nature and comprehensive authority over every aspect of life.

Verse 33 falls within the "Heh" section (verses 33-40), which continues the theme of seeking divine instruction and wisdom. This section particularly emphasizes finding and following "the way" of God's truth. Historically, during the time of the psalm's composition, the covenant relationship with YHWH centered on adherence to His Law given through Moses. This included not only moral codes but also judicial and ceremonial laws. The culture valued oral instruction and mentorship, which aligns with the psalmist's plea to be "taught" by the LORD Himself, acknowledging human insufficiency and the necessity of divine intervention to truly comprehend and live by God's perfect standards, rather than relying on human wisdom or external pagan traditions. The dependence on God for guidance stands in subtle contrast to the self-sufficient pursuit of wisdom found in surrounding cultures.

Psalm 119 33 Word analysis

• Teach me: Hebrew `הוֹרֵנִי` (Horeni). Derived from `יָרָה` (yarah), which literally means "to flow," "to shoot," or "to cast." In this context, it signifies "to instruct," "to show," "to direct," or "to guide." It implies a practical, experiential teaching that guides one along a path, rather than merely imparting intellectual knowledge. It's akin to being pointed in the right direction or having the path illuminated. This emphasizes complete dependence on God for proper navigation of life.
• O LORD: Hebrew `יְהוָה` (YHWH). This is the covenantal, personal name of God, indicating His self-existent, eternal nature. Its use here signifies a personal and relational appeal to the sovereign God of Israel, acknowledging His authority and faithfulness in the covenant. The psalmist approaches God not as a distant deity but as the One who actively engages with His people.
• the way: Hebrew `דֶּֽרֶךְ` (derech). This word means "path," "road," or "journey," but metaphorically, it signifies a course of life, manner of conduct, or a moral direction. It is not just about a set of rules but the practical lived experience of walking in alignment with God's will.
• of Your statutes: Hebrew `חֻקֶּיךָ` (chukeyka). Plural of `חֹק` (choq), which refers to established rules, decrees, or ordinances. These are fixed, permanent laws, often thought of as engraved or carved, signifying their immutability and divine authority. They are God's divinely appointed, unchanging principles that govern creation and human life. The possessive suffix "Your" underscores their divine origin and absolute truth.
• And I shall keep it: Hebrew `וְאֶצְּרֶ֥נָּה` (v'etz'rena). From the verb `נָצַר` (natsar), meaning "to guard," "to preserve," "to observe," "to watch over," or "to protect." This term implies diligent and careful adherence, not just passive acknowledgment. It speaks to a commitment to actively protect and follow the statutes, treasuring them like a precious possession.
• to the end: Hebrew `עֵֽקֶב` (ekev). This is a multifaceted word. While commonly translated "to the end" (implying lifelong perseverance and consistency), it can also mean "consequently," "therefore," "as a result of," or even "for a reward/footstep." In this context, it denotes a steadfast and enduring commitment, a determination to maintain obedience throughout one's life. Many translations align with "that I may keep it to the end" (of my life), indicating thoroughness and continuous fidelity as a consequence of God's teaching.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes": This phrase articulates a humble and essential dependency on divine instruction. It highlights that human understanding alone is insufficient to grasp the profound depth and practical application of God's Word. The prayer emphasizes not merely intellectual acquisition but personal guidance on a journey of obedience.
• "And I shall keep it to the end": This part signifies the psalmist's resolute and enduring commitment. It transforms the petition for teaching into a pledge of action. The phrase 'to the end' underscores perseverance, indicating a dedication to obey God's ways consistently, thoroughly, and throughout one's entire life, as an active and sustained response to God's enabling instruction.

Psalm 119 33 Bonus section

This verse powerfully illustrates a core biblical principle: God's work in us (teaching, empowering) enables our faithful response (keeping, obeying). It reveals that obedience is not purely a human effort, but a Spirit-empowered act that originates from divine illumination and guidance. This sets it apart from legalistic adherence, as the motive for obedience springs from a humble heart that desires to be led by God, rather than relying on self-sufficiency. The psalmist's journey is one of progressive revelation and sustained diligence. The asking precedes the acting, highlighting grace as the foundation for ethical living.

Psalm 119 33 Commentary

Psalm 119:33 beautifully encapsulates the symbiotic relationship between divine grace and human responsibility in the pursuit of a righteous life. It begins with a deep, humble cry for divine instruction, recognizing that true understanding and navigation of God's immutable decrees are beyond mere human intellect. The term "teach me" goes beyond simple information transfer; it implies a plea for God to actively guide the psalmist's path and illuminate the way, revealing the practical application of His statutes. This dependence on YHWH, the personal covenant God, grounds the prayer in a relationship of trust and submission. Following this heartfelt request, the verse then presents a profound declaration of intent: "And I shall keep it to the end." This is not a conditional statement ("if You teach, then I will keep") but an expression of firm resolve and eager commitment. The psalmist desires God's teaching so that he may vigilantly and consistently guard, preserve, and obey these divine laws without faltering, throughout the entire duration of his life. It reflects a lifelong dedication to faithfulness that stems directly from God's empowering guidance. The verse thus marries the prayer for divine wisdom with a profound and persistent dedication to walking in God's will.