King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:151 Mean?

Psalms 119:151 in the King James Version says “Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth.”

Psalms 119:151 · KJV

Truth

Context

149

Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O LORD, quicken me according to thy judgment.

150

They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.

151

Thou art near, O LORD; and all thy commandments are truth.

152

Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever.

153

RESH. Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Thou art near, O LORD (קָרוֹב אַתָּה יְהוָה, qarov attah YHWH)—In contrast to the wicked who are far (v. 150), YHWH is near. This is relational proximity, covenant presence. And all thy commandments are truth (וְכָל־מִצְוֹתֶיךָ אֱמֶת, ve-khol mitzvotekha emet)—The totality (all) and certainty (truth) of God's commandments is emphasized. No command is suspect; every one is reliable.

Deuteronomy 4:7 celebrates Israel's uniqueness: "What nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them?" God's nearness is both terror (Psalm 139:7-12) and comfort (Psalm 73:28). Jesus promised, "I am with you alway" (Matthew 28:20). The Spirit indwells believers (1 Corinthians 6:19). Divine nearness and the truthfulness of all Scripture are inseparable—God draws near through His self-revelation in His Word.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The ancient world's gods were often distant, capricious, and unknowable. YHWH's nearness to Israel—revealed in Torah, manifest in tabernacle/temple presence—was radically distinctive. This accessibility culminated in the Incarnation (Immanuel, God with us).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the nearness of God affect your response to the truthfulness of His commandments?
  2. In what practical ways do you experience God's nearness through engagement with His Word?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
קָר֣וֹב1 of 6

“Thou art near”

H7138

near (in place, kindred or time)

אַתָּ֣ה2 of 6
H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

יְהוָ֑ה3 of 6

“O LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וְֽכָל4 of 6
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

מִצְוֹתֶ֥יךָ5 of 6

“and all thy commandments”

H4687

a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

אֱמֶֽת׃6 of 6

“are truth”

H571

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

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 119:151 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 119:151 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 145:18Psalms 119:142Psalms 139:2Psalms 34:18Deuteronomy 4:7Psalms 46:1

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