Psalm 19:8
New International Version
The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

New Living Translation
The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living.

English Standard Version
the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;

Berean Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

King James Bible
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

New King James Version
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;

New American Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

NASB 1995
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

NASB 1977
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Legacy Standard Bible
The precepts of Yahweh are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of Yahweh is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Amplified Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Christian Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, making the heart glad; the command of the LORD is radiant, making the eyes light up.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, making the heart glad; the command of the LORD is radiant, making the eyes light up.

American Standard Version
The precepts of Jehovah are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Contemporary English Version
The LORD's instruction is right; it makes our hearts glad. His commands shine brightly, and they give us light.

English Revised Version
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The instructions of the LORD are correct. They make the heart rejoice. The command of the LORD is radiant. It makes the eyes shine.

Good News Translation
The laws of the LORD are right, and those who obey them are happy. The commands of the LORD are just and give understanding to the mind.

International Standard Version
The precepts of the LORD are upright, making the heart rejoice. The commandment of the LORD is pure, giving light to the eyes.

Majority Standard Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

NET Bible
The LORD's precepts are fair and make one joyful. The LORD's commands are pure and give insight for life.

New Heart English Bible
The LORD's precepts are right, rejoicing the heart. The LORD's commandment is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Webster's Bible Translation
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

World English Bible
Yahweh’s precepts are right, rejoicing the heart. Yahweh’s commandment is pure, enlightening the eyes.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
The precepts of YHWH [are] upright, "" Rejoicing the heart, "" The command of YHWH [is] pure, enlightening the eyes,

Young's Literal Translation
The precepts of Jehovah are upright, Rejoicing the heart, The command of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes,

Smith's Literal Translation
The mandates of Jehovah are straight, rejoicing the heart: the command of Jehovah pure, enlightening the eyes.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The justices of the Lord are right, rejoicing hearts: the commandment of the Lord is lightsome, enlightening the eyes.

Catholic Public Domain Version
The justice of the Lord is right, rejoicing hearts. The precepts of the Lord are brilliant, enlightening the eyes.

New American Bible
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart. The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.

New Revised Standard Version
the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eyes;
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
The commandments of LORD JEHOVAH are right and give joy to the heart; the commandment of LORD JEHOVAH is precious and makes the eyes shine.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
The ordinances of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is bright, enlightening the eyes.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Heavens Declare the Glory of God
7The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. 9The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true, being altogether righteous.…

Cross References
James 1:25
But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does.

Romans 7:12
So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good.

Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Proverbs 6:23
For this commandment is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way to life,

2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, / so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Psalm 119:130
The unfolding of Your words gives light; it informs the simple.

Matthew 5:18
For I tell you truly, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.

Psalm 119:9
How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.

John 17:17
Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.

Psalm 119:14-16
I rejoice in the way of Your testimonies as much as in all riches. / I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways. / I will delight in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.

Psalm 119:97-100
Oh, how I love Your law! All day long it is my meditation. / Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, for they are always with me. / I have more insight than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation. ...

Psalm 119:111
Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart.

Psalm 119:72
The law from Your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.

Psalm 119:127
Therefore I love Your commandments more than gold, even the purest gold.


Treasury of Scripture

The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

statutes

Psalm 105:45
That they might observe his statutes, and keep his laws. Praise ye the LORD.

Psalm 119:12,16,80,171
Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes…

Genesis 26:5
Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.

right

Psalm 119:128
Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.

Nehemiah 9:13
Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments:

rejoicing

Psalm 40:8
I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

Psalm 119:14,24,54,92,121,143
I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches…

Deuteronomy 12:11,12
Then there shall be a place which the LORD your God shall choose to cause his name to dwell there; thither shall ye bring all that I command you; your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, your tithes, and the heave offering of your hand, and all your choice vows which ye vow unto the LORD: …

is pure

Psalm 12:6
The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

Psalm 119:40
Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness.

Proverbs 30:5
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

enlightening

Psalm 13:3
Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;

Psalm 119:98-100,105,130
Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me…

Proverbs 2:6
For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

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Command Commandment Commands Enlightening Eyes Glad Heart Holy Joy Light Making Orders Precepts Pure Radiant Rejoicing Right Rule Statutes Upright
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Command Commandment Commands Enlightening Eyes Glad Heart Holy Joy Light Making Orders Precepts Pure Radiant Rejoicing Right Rule Statutes Upright
Psalm 19
1. The creatures show God's glory
7. The excellence of the divine law
12. David prays for grace














The precepts of the LORD are right
The term "precepts" refers to the instructions or guidelines given by God. These are not mere suggestions but authoritative directives meant to guide the moral and spiritual life of believers. The word "right" indicates that these precepts are just, fair, and aligned with God's perfect nature. In the context of ancient Israel, the Law given through Moses was seen as a divine gift that set the nation apart and provided a framework for righteous living. The rightness of God's precepts is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 119:128, which affirms the righteousness of God's statutes. This phrase underscores the belief that God's instructions are inherently good and beneficial for those who follow them.

bringing joy to the heart
The joy mentioned here is not merely an emotional response but a deep-seated contentment and satisfaction that comes from living in accordance with God's will. In biblical times, joy was often associated with the presence and favor of God, as seen in Nehemiah 8:10, where the joy of the LORD is described as strength. This joy is a result of the peace and assurance that come from knowing one is living in harmony with divine truth. The heart, in Hebrew thought, represents the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. Thus, the joy that God's precepts bring is holistic, affecting every aspect of a person's life.

the commandments of the LORD are radiant
The word "radiant" suggests something that is clear, pure, and enlightening. God's commandments are described as radiant because they illuminate the path of righteousness and truth. In the ancient Near Eastern context, light was often associated with knowledge, purity, and divine presence. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages, such as Psalm 119:105, where God's word is likened to a lamp and a light. The radiance of God's commandments dispels the darkness of ignorance and sin, guiding believers toward a life that reflects God's holiness.

giving light to the eyes
This phrase emphasizes the enlightening power of God's commandments. In biblical literature, the eyes are often symbolic of understanding and perception. The light given to the eyes represents spiritual insight and discernment, enabling believers to see and understand God's will more clearly. This concept is echoed in Ephesians 1:18, where Paul prays for the eyes of believers' hearts to be enlightened. The light that God's commandments provide is transformative, allowing individuals to perceive the world and their lives from a divine perspective. This illumination is not only intellectual but also moral, guiding believers in making choices that honor God.

Persons / Places / Events
1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 19, David was the second king of Israel and a man after God's own heart. His psalms often reflect his deep relationship with God and his understanding of God's laws.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God used in the Old Testament, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness to His people.

3. The Law of the LORD
Refers to the divine instructions and commandments given by God, which are central to the life and worship of the Israelites.
Teaching Points
The Joy of Obedience
God's precepts are designed to bring joy to our hearts. When we align our lives with His commandments, we experience a deep, abiding joy that transcends circumstances.

The Clarity of God's Commandments
The commandments of the LORD are radiant, providing clarity and direction. In a world filled with confusion, God's Word offers a clear path.

The Transformative Power of Scripture
Engaging with God's Word transforms our perspective, enlightening our understanding and guiding our decisions.

The Importance of Regular Study
Regularly studying and meditating on God's precepts is crucial for spiritual growth and maintaining a joyful heart.

Living in the Light
As believers, we are called to live in the light of God's commandments, allowing His Word to illuminate our path and influence our actions.(8) Right.--Here in its original sense of "straight," or direct. A fine moral insight suggested this touch. The road of duty, when plain and unmistakable, inspires a sense of gladness, even if it be difficult and dangerous.

"Stern Lawgiver, yet thou dost wear

The Godhead's most benignant grace;

Nor know we anything so fair

As is the smile upon thy face.

Flowers laugh before thee on their beds,

And fragrance in thy footing treads."

WORDSWORTH'S Ode to Duty.

'Enlightening the eyes.--Not here as in Psalm 13:3 (see Note) physically, but morally (comp. Psalm 119:105); the whole nature of one who lives in the light of truth is illuminated. . . .

Verse 8. - The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; rather, the precepts of the Lord are right. Another of the many synonyms under which the Law may be spoken of (see Dr. Kay's preface to the hundred and nineteenth psalm). God's precepts "rejoice the heart" of the godly. They are not felt as stern commands, but as gracious intimations of what God desires man to do for his own good. The commandment of the Lord is pure; i.e. spotless, clean, without fault (comp. ver. 7, "The Law of the Lord is perfect"). Enlightening the eyes; i.e. giving light to the intellect.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
The precepts
פִּקּ֘וּדֵ֤י (piq·qū·ḏê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 6490: Appointed, a mandate

of the LORD
יְהוָ֣ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

are right,
יְ֭שָׁרִים (yə·šā·rîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 3477: Straight, right

bringing joy
מְשַׂמְּחֵי־ (mə·śam·mə·ḥê-)
Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine plural construct
Strong's 8055: To brighten up, be, blithe, gleesome

to the heart;
לֵ֑ב (lêḇ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3820: The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre

the commandments
מִצְוַ֥ת (miṣ·waṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 4687: Commandment

of the LORD
יְהוָ֥ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

are radiant,
בָּ֝רָ֗ה (bā·rāh)
Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 1249: Beloved, pure, empty

giving light
מְאִירַ֥ת (mə·’î·raṯ)
Verb - Hifil - Participle - feminine singular construct
Strong's 215: To be or become light

to the eyes.
עֵינָֽיִם׃ (‘ê·nā·yim)
Noun - cd
Strong's 5869: An eye, a fountain


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OT Poetry: Psalm 19:8 Yahweh's precepts are right rejoicing the heart (Psalm Ps Psa.)
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