King James Version
Psalms 119:5 in the King James Version says “O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!”
Psalms 119:5 · KJV
They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways.
Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.
O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!
Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.
I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. thy: Heb. judgments of thy righteousness
KJV Study — Public Domain
“were directed”
H3559properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
“my ways”
H1870a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
“to keep”
H8104properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
“thy statutes”
H2706an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)
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.
Psalms 119:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 119:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge