Psalms 119:157-163

Context

119:157 The enemies who chase me are numerous.¹

Yet I do not turn aside from your rules.

119:158 I take note of the treacherous and despise them,

because they do not keep your instructions.²

119:159 See how I love your precepts!

O Lord, revive me with your loyal love!

119:160 Your instructions are totally reliable;

all your just regulations endure.³

שׂ/שׁ (Sin/Shin)

119:161 Rulers pursue me for no reason,

yet I am more afraid of disobeying your instructions.⁴

119:162 I rejoice in your instructions,

like one who finds much plunder.⁵

119:163 I hate and despise deceit;

I love your law.

[119:157] ¹tn Heb “many [are] those who chase me and my enemies.”

[119:158] ²tn Heb “your word.”

[119:160] ³tn Heb “the head of your word is truth, and forever [is] all your just regulation.” The term “head” is used here of the “sum total” of God’s instructions.

[119:161] ⁴tn Heb “and because of your instructions my heart trembles.” The psalmist’s healthy “fear” of the consequences of violating God’s instructions motivates him to obey them. See v. 120.

[119:162] ⁵tn Heb “like one who finds great plunder.” See Judg 5:30. The image is that of a victorious warrior who finds a large amount of plunder on the field of battle.