Devine Scripture

Psalms 19:7

What does Psalms 19:7 mean?

A plain-English look at Psalms 19:7 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Psalms 19:7 means

This verse marks a significant shift in the psalm, moving from God's revelation in creation to His revelation through His divine Law. Here, the 'Law of the LORD' (Torah) is described as 'perfect,' meaning complete and without defect, with the power to 'restore the soul' or revive life. Similarly, the 'testimony of the LORD' is declared 'sure' or trustworthy, possessing the unique ability to impart wisdom even to the simple or inexperienced, guiding them toward true understanding and righteousness. This highlights the transformative power of God's written Word.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring the soul: The testimony of Jehovah is sure, making wise the simple.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring the soul: The testimony of Jehovah is sure, making wise the simple.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

The law of the Lord is good, giving new life to the soul: the witness of the Lord is certain, giving wisdom to the foolish.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

The law of Jehovah <FI>is<Fi> perfect, refreshing the soul, The testimonies of Jehovah <FI>are<Fi> stedfast, Making wise the simple,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

The Lord fulfil all thy petitions: now have I known that the Lord hath saved his anointed. He will hear him from his holy heaven: the salvation of his right hand is in powers.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of Jehovah is sure, making wise the simple;

Context

This verse introduces the second major theme of the psalm, transitioning sharply from the general revelation of God in creation (verses 1-6) to the special revelation found in His written Law. It begins a series of descriptions of the Law's character and effects, using various synonyms for God's Word. This shift emphasizes the unique and superior benefits of God's precise instruction compared to the general knowledge gained from nature.

v.6His going forth is from the end of the heavens, And his circuit unto the ends of it; And there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

v.7This passage

v.8The precepts of Jehovah are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Psalms 119:14

    I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, As much as in all riches.

  • 1 John 5:9

    If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for the witness of God is this, that he hath borne witness concerning his Son.

  • Psalms 119:72

    The law of thy mouth is better unto me Than thousands of gold and silver. י YODH.

  • 2 Samuel 23:5

    Verily my house is not so with God; Yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, Ordered in all things, and sure: For it is all my salvation, and allmydesire, Although he maketh it not to grow.

  • 2 Timothy 1:8

    Be not ashamed therefore of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but suffer hardship with the gospel according to the power of God;

  • Psalms 119:9

    Wherewith shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word.

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