King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:47 Mean?

Psalms 119:47 in the King James Version says “And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.”

Psalms 119:47 · KJV

Love

Context

45

And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts. at liberty: Heb. at large

46

I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.

47

And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.

48

My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

49

ZAIN. Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And I will delight myself in thy commandments (וְאֶשְׁתַּֽעֲשַׁע בְּמִצְוֺתֶיךָ)—Sha'a (to delight oneself, take exquisite pleasure) describes luxuriating enjoyment. The Hitpael form emphasizes intensive, reflexive action—the psalmist will thoroughly delight himself in God's mitzvot (commandments). This isn't grim duty but joyful pleasure, echoing Psalm 1:2's meditation that delights. Which I have loved (אֲשֶׁר אָהָבְתִּי)—Ahav (to love) grounds future delight in present affection. The relative clause 'which I have loved' shows this isn't manufactured emotion but authentic, established love for God's commands.

The progression climaxes beautifully: bold testimony before kings (v.46) flows from delighting in commandments. Fearless witness isn't produced by grinding obligation but overflowing joy. Those who genuinely delight in God's words can't help but speak them, even to hostile audiences. This is the psychology of evangelism: love for Christ and His truth naturally produces testimony. Jesus promised 'out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks' (Matthew 12:34)—hearts delighting in God's commandments produce mouths testifying fearlessly.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Hebrew wisdom literature connects delight in God's law with prosperity and stability (Psalm 1). The psalmist writes from a theology where obeying Torah isn't burden but privilege and pleasure—a radical contrast to Greek philosophy's dichotomy between duty and pleasure. For the regenerate, God's commandments become the source of greatest joy.

Reflection Questions

  1. Do you genuinely delight in God's commandments, or do you view obedience as duty you must perform rather than joy you get to experience?
  2. How does loving God's commandments naturally produce bold testimony even in hostile contexts—what's the connection?
  3. What would change in your witness if your primary motivation shifted from obligation to delight in God's beautiful truth?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
וְאֶשְׁתַּֽעֲשַׁ֥ע1 of 4

“And I will delight”

H8173

(in a good acceptation) to look upon (with complacency), i.e., fondle, please or amuse (self); (in a bad one) to look about (in dismay), i.e., stare

בְּמִצְוֹתֶ֗יךָ2 of 4

“myself in thy commandments”

H4687

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

אֲשֶׁ֣ר3 of 4
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

אָהָֽבְתִּי׃4 of 4

“which I have loved”

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 119:47 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 119:47 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 119:48Psalms 119:97Psalms 119:127Psalms 19:7-10Psalms 119:16John 4:34

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