King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:106 Mean?

Psalms 119:106 in the King James Version says “I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.”

Psalms 119:106 · KJV

Context

104

Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.

105

NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. lamp: or, candle

106

I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.

107

I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word.

108

Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The Nun (נ) section begins with I have sworn, and I will perform it (נִשְׁבַּעְתִּי וָאֲקַיֵּמָה, nishba'ti va'aqayemah)—a solemn vow using the verb shaba (to swear an oath). This echoes Nehemiah's covenant renewal (Neh 10:29) and prefigures the New Covenant sealed in Christ's blood. The psalmist's resolve to keep thy righteous judgments (מִשְׁפָּטֵי צִדְקֶךָ, mishpetei tzidkekha) reflects covenantal commitment—God's mishpatim are not arbitrary rules but righteous ordinances flowing from His character.

Performance of vows was legally binding in Israel (Deut 23:21-23), making this a serious commitment. The structure parallels wedding vows or military oaths—public declaration followed by faithful execution. This verse challenges cheap grace and easy-believism, demanding resolved obedience rooted in covenant loyalty.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Written during David's persecution or the Babylonian exile, when keeping God's law required costly commitment. Oath-taking in ancient Israel was sacred and legally binding, invoking God as witness. The righteous judgments refer to the Torah given at Sinai, the foundation of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh.

Reflection Questions

  1. What vows have you made to God that require renewed commitment and faithful performance?
  2. How does the psalmist's sworn obedience challenge a Christianity that emphasizes grace without discipleship?
  3. In what ways does covenant loyalty to God's word require sacrifice in your current circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
נִשְׁבַּ֥עְתִּי1 of 5

“I have sworn”

H7650

to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)

וָאֲקַיֵּ֑מָה2 of 5

“and I will perform”

H6965

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

לִ֝שְׁמֹ֗ר3 of 5

“it that I will keep”

H8104

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

מִשְׁפְּטֵ֥י4 of 5

“judgments”

H4941

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

צִדְקֶֽךָ׃5 of 5

“thy righteous”

H6664

the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity

Study Guide

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 119:106 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 119:106 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 10:29Psalms 56:122 Kings 23:3Psalms 66:13-142 Corinthians 8:5Ecclesiastes 5:4-5

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