19:title A psalm of David See note on Ps 3:title.

19:1 the glory of God Yahweh created the heavens (referred to as shamayim in Hebrew) and the sky, expanse, or firmament (raqia' in Hebrew) to reveal His glory (see Gen 1:1, 6). People in the ancient Near East often worshiped the sun, moon, and stars as gods—something specifically prohibited by the Law (see Deut 4:19; 17:3)—rather than the Creator whose glory they reflect.

19:2 they tell knowledge Creation reveals the knowledge of God’s supremacy.

19:4 in all the world The expanse of the heavens declares God’s glory to the entire earth. Paul may have had this psalm in mind when he spoke of God’s invisible attributes (Rom 1:19–20).

a tent for the sun In ancient Near Eastern cosmology, the sky was believed to be a dome-like structure encircling the earth.

19:5 like a bridegroom An image of festive joy. The bridegroom would be adorned with fine clothing (Isa 61:10; Song 3:11), and a joyful procession would accompany bride and bridegroom (Jer 7:34).

a strong man The Hebrew word used here, gibor, most likely describes an athlete who runs a race with strength and vigor. The two analogies—bridegroom and strong man—emphasize the radiance and power of the sun.

Biblical Theology

The Formation of the Old Testament

19:7 is perfect The Hebrew word used here, tamim, means to be “perfect” or “blameless”; it emphasizes personal integrity.

19:8 is pure The Hebrew word used here, bar, emphasizes moral purity.

19:9 are true This highlights the trustworthiness of God’s Law.

19:10 more desirable than Like wisdom, the Law is more valuable than gold (Prov 3:13–15) and sweeter than honey (Ezek 3:3).

19:11 your servant is warned The Law serves as a warning against evil (Ezek 3:17–21) and brings reward for those who keep it (compare note on Psa 19:7–9).

19:12 Acquit me The psalmist petitions God for forgiveness. The word naqah means “to acquit” or “leave unpunished” (Job 10:14).

19:13 keep back your servant The psalmist also asks God to keep him from sin.

I shall be blameless The word tamim, also used to describe the Law (Ps 19:7), emphasizes integrity or innocence. See note on Job 1:1.

19:14 acceptable The Hebrew word used here, ratson, often indicates God’s acceptance of a sacrifice (Lev 1:3; 19:5; Isa 56:7). The psalmist offers up his words, hoping they will be pleasing to Yahweh.

my rock The word used here, tsur, highlights the stability and protection Yahweh provides (see note on Psa 18:1–3).

my redeemer The word used here, go'el, illustrates Yahweh’s protection and care as He defends and delivers His people. See note on Job 19:25.

Go’el Word Study