King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:1 Mean?

“ALEPH. Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. undefiled: or, perfect, or, sincere”

Context

ALEPH. Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. undefiled: or, perfect, or, sincere

Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.

They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

ALEPH. (1) **Undefiled.**—Better, *blameless *or *perfect.* **Way.**—See the same use without a qualifying epithet in Psalm 2:12. There was only-one way of safety and peace for an Israelite, here by the parallelism defined as “the law of Jehovah.” But even heathen ethics bore witness to the same truth: “Declinandum de *viâ *sit modo ne summa turpitudo sequatur” (Cic, *De Amicitia, *17).

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 119:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.