Meaning of Psalms 119:164

This verse from Psalm 119 expresses a profound and consistent devotion to God, characterized by frequent praise specifically tied to His "righteous laws." The number seven, in Hebrew thought, often signifies completeness or perfection, suggesting that the psalmist's praise is not sporadic but a regular, full, and deliberate aspect of his life. This is not merely an emotional outburst but a reasoned and sustained acknowledgment of the divine order and justice embodied in God's statutes, which are presented throughout this psalm as a source of guidance, comfort, and life. The act of praising seven times a day implies a structured and disciplined engagement with God's word, integrating it into the fabric of daily existence and recognizing its pervasive influence on all aspects of life.

Context and Background

Psalm 119 is the longest psalm in the Psalter and is an extended meditation on the importance and beauty of God's law (Torah). It is an acrostic psalm, with each section beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, highlighting its structured and comprehensive nature. The psalmist consistently extols the virtues of God's commandments, decrees, statutes, and ordinances, viewing them as perfect, life-giving, and essential for spiritual well-being. Within this context, verse 164 emphasizes the active response to these laws: praise. The psalmist is not just a passive recipient of divine teaching but an enthusiastic worshipper whose praise is a direct consequence of appreciating the righteousness of God's governance. The repetition of "seven times a day" points to a deliberate and habitual practice, perhaps mirroring ancient Jewish customs of prayer at set times throughout the day, such as those mentioned in the Mishnah.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary themes are praise, righteousness, and divine law. The verse establishes a causal link: because God's laws are righteous, the psalmist is moved to praise Him frequently. This highlights that obedience and appreciation for divine instruction are not a burden but a source of joy and worship. The emphasis on "seven times a day" underscores the importance of consistency and dedication in one's spiritual life. It suggests that encountering and responding to God's will should be a continuous, integrated practice, not an occasional event. The righteousness of God's laws implies their inherent justice, truth, and moral perfection, which are worthy of constant adoration.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse calls believers to cultivate a life of continuous praise that is rooted in an understanding and appreciation of God's character as revealed in His Word. It encourages the development of spiritual disciplines that foster regular engagement with Scripture and prayer, allowing God's righteousness to shape our thoughts, words, and actions. The application lies in recognizing that our praise should be informed by our understanding of God's truth and justice. When we grasp the perfection and goodness of His commands, our worship becomes more meaningful and enduring. It challenges a superficial or sporadic approach to faith, advocating for a deep-seated reverence that permeates every moment of the day.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse aligns with the overarching biblical narrative of God's covenantal relationship with His people, where obedience to His laws is consistently presented as a path to blessing and a demonstration of love and faithfulness. From the Ten Commandments given at Sinai to the teachings of Jesus emphasizing love for God and neighbor, the theme of righteous instruction as the foundation for a life pleasing to God is central. The New Testament, while emphasizing grace, does not abolish the law but fulfills it through Christ, and believers are called to live by the Spirit, which produces fruit that reflects God's righteousness. The psalmist's praise is a precursor to the New Testament exhortation to "give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and to "sing and make melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:19).

Analogies

One analogy for this verse is that of a skilled artisan who, after studying and mastering the perfect blueprints and techniques of their craft, consistently praises the architect or the master craftsman whose designs are flawless and achievable. The blueprints and techniques represent God's righteous laws, and the artisan's praise is a direct result of their appreciation for their perfection and the excellent results they enable. Another analogy is that of a student who, having received clear and effective instruction from a wise teacher that leads to success and understanding, expresses deep gratitude and admiration for that teacher's methods and wisdom, not just once, but regularly.

Relation to Other Verses

Psalm 119:164 echoes sentiments found throughout the Psalms and the rest of Scripture. For instance, Psalm 1:1-2 speaks of the blessedness of one who meditates on God's law day and night, implying a constant engagement that would naturally lead to praise. Psalm 19:7-10 declares the law of the Lord to be perfect, reviving the soul, and more desirable than gold, highlighting the inherent value that prompts worship. In the New Testament, Romans 7:12 states that "the law is holy, righteous, and good," a theological affirmation of the very quality the psalmist praises. Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 10:31 encourages believers to "do all to the glory of God," which includes praising Him for His perfect governance and guidance. The emphasis on frequent, heartfelt worship is also seen in Philippians 4:4, which commands believers to "rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice."