King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:56 Mean?

Psalms 119:56 in the King James Version says “This I had, because I kept thy precepts.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“This I had, because I kept thy precepts.”

Psalms 119:56 · KJV

Context

54

Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage.

55

I have remembered thy name, O LORD, in the night, and have kept thy law.

56

This I had, because I kept thy precepts.

57

CHETH. Thou art my portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words.

58

I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word. favour: Heb. face

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This I had, because I kept thy precepts. The Hebrew construction is emphatic: This (זֹאת, zot)—likely referring to all the blessings just described (hope, comfort, songs, nighttime communion). The phrase I had (הָיְתָה־לִּי, haytah-li) means 'became mine' or 'came to me as possession.' The psalmist doesn't claim merit but acknowledges the connection between obedience and blessing.

Because I kept thy precepts (כִּי פִקּוּדֶיךָ נָצָרְתִּי, ki piqqudekha natsarti)—kept (נָצַר, natsar) means 'guarded' or 'treasured,' implying vigilant protection. This isn't legalism but the Reformed understanding that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Obedience doesn't earn blessing but demonstrates genuine faith that receives blessing.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Deuteronomic theology emphasized the connection between covenant obedience and blessing, warning against viewing blessing as automatic or obedience as meritorious. The exile proved that presuming on covenant privileges without faithful obedience brought judgment. Jesus later taught that true disciples 'keep my word' (John 8:31), while Paul emphasized that grace produces obedience, not license (Romans 6:1-2).

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you distinguish between legalistic performance for God's favor and grateful obedience flowing from grace?
  2. What specific spiritual blessings have 'become yours' through faithful obedience to God's precepts?
  3. How does this verse challenge both cheap grace (no obedience expected) and works-righteousness (obedience earns favor)?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
זֹ֥את1 of 6
H2063

this (often used adverb)

הָֽיְתָה2 of 6
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

לִּ֑י3 of 6
H0
כִּ֖י4 of 6
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

פִקֻּדֶ֣יךָ5 of 6

“thy precepts”

H6490

properly, appointed, i.e., a mandate (of god; plural only, collectively, for the law)

נָצָֽרְתִּי׃6 of 6

“This I had because I kept”

H5341

to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)

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 119:56 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 119:56 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 119:1651 John 3:19-24Psalms 18:18-22

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