The Power of the Word Unto Wisdom
[Tsade] 4. The power of the word unto righteousness (119:137–144). The fundamental character of God is reflected in his law. His commandments express his absolute righteousness and faithfulness to his covenant. The psalmist’s zeal for God has triggered animosity on the part of those who had forgotten God’s word. He is especially drawn to God’s word because it is pure, i.e., like pure gold without any impurities. Though he is insignificant in the eyes of men and despised for his strict adherence to the law, yet he cannot be moved from his allegiance to the Lord. He knows that Yahweh’s righteousness is everlasting, and his law is truth. Yahweh’s righteousness is reflected in the law. So even if trouble and anguish take hold of him, yet he will delight in God’s commandments. The psalmist concludes this contemplation of the character of God’s law with a prayer for fuller understanding of it. Through the knowledge of that law and obedience to it man, really lives, i.e., truly realizes the purpose of his being
Smith, James E. The Wisdom Literature and Psalms. Joplin, MO: College Press Pub. Co., 1996. Print. Old Testament Survey Series.
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