I long for Your salvation, O LORD
This phrase expresses a deep yearning for deliverance and redemption, a common theme throughout the Psalms. The psalmist's longing for salvation reflects a recognition of human insufficiency and a dependence on divine intervention. In the Old Testament context, salvation often referred to deliverance from physical enemies or distress, but it also pointed to spiritual salvation. The use of "O LORD" invokes the covenant name of God, Yahweh, emphasizing a personal relationship and trust in God's promises. This longing can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan (Luke 2:30-32).

and Your law is my delight
The psalmist finds joy and satisfaction in God's law, which refers to the Torah or the first five books of the Bible. This delight in the law underscores a love for God's instructions and commandments, which are seen as life-giving and wise (Psalm 19:7-11). In the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, the law was central to religious and communal life, guiding moral conduct and worship. The delight in the law also highlights a contrast with those who reject or ignore God's commandments. This phrase connects to the New Testament where Jesus affirms the law's value and fulfills it (Matthew 5:17-18). The psalmist's delight can be seen as a type of Christ's perfect obedience and love for God's will.

1. The Psalmist
The author of Psalm 119, traditionally believed to be King David, who expresses a deep longing for God's salvation and a love for His law.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature, and His relationship with His people.

3. Salvation
In the context of the Old Testament, salvation often refers to deliverance from enemies or distress, but it also points to the ultimate salvation found in the Messiah.

4. The Law (Torah)
Refers to God's instructions and commandments given to His people, which are a source of guidance and joy for the believer.

5. The Hebrew People
The original audience of the Psalms, who were called to live according to God's law and anticipate His salvation.Longing for Salvation
The psalmist's deep yearning for God's salvation is a model for believers to earnestly desire spiritual deliverance and redemption. This longing should drive us to seek a closer relationship with God and trust in His promises.

Delight in God's Law
The law is not merely a set of rules but a source of joy and guidance. As believers, we should find delight in God's Word, allowing it to shape our lives and bring us closer to Him.

The Role of the Law in the Believer's Life
While the law cannot save us, it reveals God's character and His standards for holy living. It points us to our need for a Savior and guides us in righteous living.

Anticipation of Christ's Fulfillment
The psalmist's longing for salvation finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. As Christians, we live in the reality of this fulfilled promise and should continually look to Christ as the source of our salvation.Verse 174. - I have longed for thy salvation, O Lord (comp. vers. 81, 166). And thy Law is my delight (see vers. 16, 35, 47, 70. 77, 111).

Parallel Commentaries ...


I long
תָּאַ֣בְתִּי (tā·’aḇ·tî)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 8373: To long for

for Your salvation,
לִֽישׁוּעָתְךָ֣ (lî·šū·‘ā·ṯə·ḵā)
Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 3444: Something saved, deliverance, aid, victory, prosperity

O LORD,
יְהוָ֑ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3069: YHWH

and Your law
וְ֝תֽוֹרָתְךָ֗ (wə·ṯō·w·rā·ṯə·ḵā)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 8451: Direction, instruction, law

is my delight.
שַׁעֲשֻׁעָֽי׃ (ša·‘ă·šu·‘āy)
Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular
Strong's 8191: Enjoyment


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OT Poetry: Psalm 119:174 I have longed for your salvation Yahweh (Psalm Ps Psa.)