I am a stranger on the earth;
This phrase reflects the psalmist's sense of alienation and transience in the world. The concept of being a "stranger" or "sojourner" is a recurring theme in Scripture, highlighting the temporary nature of human life on earth. In Genesis 23:4, Abraham describes himself as a foreigner and stranger among the Hittites, emphasizing his reliance on God rather than earthly possessions. Similarly, 1 Peter 2:11 refers to believers as "foreigners and exiles," urging them to live with a heavenly perspective. This idea underscores the believer's identity as a citizen of heaven (Philippians 3:20), living in a world that is not their ultimate home.

do not hide Your commandments from me.
The psalmist's plea for God not to hide His commandments indicates a deep desire for divine guidance and understanding. In the historical context, the Law was central to the life of Israel, serving as a guide for righteous living and a means to maintain a covenant relationship with God. The request for God to reveal His commandments suggests a recognition of human limitations and the need for divine revelation to navigate life's challenges. This echoes the sentiment found in Psalm 119:105, where God's word is described as a "lamp to my feet and a light to my path," illustrating the necessity of Scripture for direction and wisdom. The longing for God's commandments also points to the fulfillment found in Christ, who embodies the Word made flesh (John 1:14) and provides the ultimate revelation of God's will and character.

1. Psalmist
The author of Psalm 119, traditionally attributed to King David, who expresses a deep longing for God's guidance and wisdom.

2. Earth
Represents the temporary and often challenging nature of life in this world, contrasting with the eternal nature of God's word.

3. God's Commandments
The divine laws and teachings given by God, which the psalmist seeks to understand and follow.Understanding Our Pilgrimage
Recognize that as believers, we are temporary residents on earth, and our true home is with God. This perspective should influence our priorities and decisions.

Desire for God's Guidance
Like the psalmist, we should earnestly seek God's commandments and wisdom to navigate the challenges of life. This involves regular study and meditation on Scripture.

Living as Strangers
Embrace the identity of being a stranger in the world, which calls for living according to God's standards rather than conforming to worldly values.

Dependence on God's Revelation
Acknowledge our need for God to reveal His truths to us, as we cannot understand His commandments fully without His help.

Eternal Perspective
Maintain an eternal perspective that focuses on God's promises and the hope of eternal life, which provides comfort and direction in our earthly journey.(19) I am a stranger.--A comparison of Psalm 119:54 with Genesis 47:9 (comp. Psalm 39:12) shows that the general transitory condition of life, and not any particular circumstance of the psalmist's history is in view. Human intelligence does not suffice to fathom the will of God. The mortal is a stranger on the earth; both time and strength are wanting to attain to knowledge which only Divine wisdom can teach.

Verse 19. - I am a stranger in the earth; or, "a sojourner" (Cheyne, Kay, Revised Version); comp. Psalm 39:12; Hebrews 11:13-16. Earth is not our true home. We all "seek a country." Hide not thy commandments from me. God "hides" things from the wise and prudent which he reveals to "babes." The psalmist prays that the true meaning of God's Word may not be kept back from him.

Parallel Commentaries ...


I
אָנֹכִ֣י (’ā·nō·ḵî)
Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 595: I

am a stranger
גֵּ֣ר (gêr)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 1616: A guest, a foreigner

on the earth;
בָאָ֑רֶץ (ḇā·’ā·reṣ)
Preposition-b, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 776: Earth, land

do not
אַל־ (’al-)
Adverb
Strong's 408: Not

hide
תַּסְתֵּ֥ר (tas·têr)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect Jussive - second person masculine singular
Strong's 5641: To hide, conceal

Your commandments
מִצְוֺתֶֽיךָ׃ (miṣ·wō·ṯe·ḵā)
Noun - feminine plural construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 4687: Commandment

from me.
מִ֝מֶּ֗נִּי (mim·men·nî)
Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's 4480: A part of, from, out of


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OT Poetry: Psalm 119:19 I am a stranger on the earth (Psalm Ps Psa.)