King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:140 Mean?

Psalms 119:140 in the King James Version says “Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it. pure: Heb. tried, or, refined” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it. pure: Heb. tried, or, refined”

Psalms 119:140 · KJV

Context

138

Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful. righteous: Heb. righteousness faithful: Heb. faithfulness

139

My zeal hath consumed me, because mine enemies have forgotten thy words. consumed: Heb. cut me off

140

Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it. pure: Heb. tried, or, refined

141

I am small and despised: yet do not I forget thy precepts.

142

Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
"I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies." The declaration avdekha ani (your servant I am) expresses covenant relationship and submitted will. Eved (servant/slave) indicates one who belongs to and obeys a master. This identity grounds the request: havineni ve'ed'ah edotekha (give me understanding that I may know your testimonies). Bin (understand/discern) means to perceive with insight, distinguish, comprehend deeply—not merely intellectual knowledge but penetrating understanding. Yada (know) similarly indicates experiential, relational knowledge, not just factual awareness. The servant seeks understanding to truly know (yada) God's edot (testimonies). This prayer acknowledges that covenant relationship requires divinely given understanding—servants need master's instruction to serve effectively.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern servants required training to serve masters well—learning household customs, master's preferences, proper protocols. Israel as YHWH's servant nation needed instruction in covenant stipulations to fulfill their calling (Exodus 19:5-6). Prophets and kings served as God's servants with special responsibilities (Moses: Numbers 12:7, David: 2 Samuel 7:5, prophets: Amos 3:7). The ideal Servant of Isaiah 40-55 would perfectly know and obey God's will. Jesus fulfilled this role (Philippians 2:5-11), and believers now serve as His servants (Romans 1:1, James 1:1), requiring Spirit-given understanding of God's will (Colossians 1:9-10).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does identifying primarily as God's servant reshape your approach to Scripture study?
  2. What is the connection between submitted will ("I am your servant") and spiritual understanding?
  3. In what areas do you need divine understanding to better know and obey God's testimonies?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
צְרוּפָ֖ה1 of 5

“pure”

H6884

to fuse (metal), i.e., refine (literally or figuratively)

אִמְרָתְךָ֥2 of 5

“Thy word”

H565

an utterance

מְאֹ֗ד3 of 5

“is very”

H3966

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

וְֽעַבְדְּךָ֥4 of 5

“therefore thy servant”

H5650

a servant

אֲהֵבָֽהּ׃5 of 5

“loveth”

H157

to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)

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 119:140 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 119:140 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 19:8Proverbs 30:52 Peter 1:21Psalms 12:6Romans 7:12Psalms 119:128

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