King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:29 Mean?

Psalms 119:29 in the King James Version says “Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously.”

Psalms 119:29 · KJV

Context

27

Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.

28

My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word. melteth: Heb. droppeth

29

Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously.

30

I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me.

31

I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame.

Read Psalms 119 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Remove from me the way of lying (דֶּֽרֶךְ־שֶׁקֶר הָסֵר מִמֶּנִּי)—Sheqer (falsehood, deception) encompasses both outright lies and living a false life contrary to truth. The derek (way, path) of lying is a lifestyle of self-deception and dishonesty God must actively remove—we cannot remove it ourselves. And grant me thy law graciously (וְֽתֽוֹרָתְךָ חָנֵּנִי)—The verb chanan (to be gracious, show favor) reveals that even receiving God's torah (instruction, law) is pure grace. We need mercy both to escape deception and to embrace truth.

This couplet exposes two ways: the false way we naturally drift toward, and the true way of God's law we desperately need. The psalmist recognizes that forsaking lies and following Torah both require divine intervention—reformation is grace from start to finish, anticipating Paul's "it is God who works in you" (Philippians 2:13).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Israel lived surrounded by nations whose gods endorsed ritual prostitution, child sacrifice, and false prophecy—'the way of lying' had cultural momentum. The psalmist's plea reflects living as a covenant minority, constantly tempted to syncretize truth with cultural falsehood, needing God's gracious intervention to maintain distinctiveness.

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'ways of lying' (self-deception, image management, theological compromise) do you need God to actively remove from your life?
  2. How does recognizing that receiving God's law is itself grace transform your view of biblical commandments?
  3. In what areas are you trying to remove falsehood through willpower instead of crying for gracious divine intervention?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
דֶּֽרֶךְ1 of 6

“from me the way”

H1870

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

שֶׁ֭קֶר2 of 6

“of lying”

H8267

an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)

הָסֵ֣ר3 of 6

“Remove”

H5493

to turn off (literally or figuratively)

מִמֶּ֑נִּי4 of 6
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

וְֽתוֹרָתְךָ֥5 of 6

“and grant me thy law”

H8451

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

חָנֵּֽנִי׃6 of 6

“graciously”

H2603

properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)

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 119:29 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 119:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 John 1:81 John 2:4Proverbs 30:8Hebrews 8:10-11Psalms 119:37Ephesians 4:22-25

Test Your Knowledge

Psalms 119 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Psalms 119 with CommentaryAll Psalms ChaptersComplete Psalms QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes