King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:94 Mean?

Psalms 119:94 in the King James Version says “I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.”

Psalms 119:94 · KJV

Salvation

Context

92

Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.

93

I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me.

94

I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.

95

The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies.

96

I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
I am thine, save me (לְךָ־אָנִי הוֹשִׁיעֵנִי lekha-ani hoshi'eni)—Covenant language: lekha (to you, yours) establishes ownership. The psalmist's plea for salvation (yasha, save, deliver) rests not on personal merit but on belonging to God. For I have sought thy precepts (כִּי פִקּוּדֶיךָ דָרָשְׁתִּי ki pikkudekha darashti)—Not a claim of perfection, but evidence of regeneration. Darash (seek, inquire, study) implies diligent pursuit, not casual interest.

This mirrors covenant formulae: "I will be your God, and you shall be my people" (Jeremiah 7:23). Salvation flows from relationship, not transaction. The psalmist's seeking precepts demonstrates genuine faith—James 2:18's "show me your faith by your works." Jesus echoed this in John 10:27-28: "My sheep hear my voice... and I give unto them eternal life."

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Historical & Cultural Context

"I am thine" recalls Ruth's pledge to Naomi (Ruth 1:16), the marriage covenant, and Israel's Sinai vow (Exodus 19:8). In ancient Near Eastern treaties, the vassal's declaration "I am yours" acknowledged the suzerain's protective obligation. The psalmist invokes covenant fidelity.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does understanding salvation as belonging to God (rather than acquiring something from Him) change your approach to prayer?
  2. In what areas of life do you need to more fully embrace "I am thine"—God's ownership of your time, resources, relationships?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לְֽךָ1 of 6
H0
אֲ֭נִי2 of 6
H589

i

הוֹשִׁיעֵ֑נִי3 of 6

“I am thine save”

H3467

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

כִּ֖י4 of 6
H3588

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

פִקּוּדֶ֣יךָ5 of 6

“thy precepts”

H6490

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

דָרָֽשְׁתִּי׃6 of 6

“me for I have sought”

H1875

properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship

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 119:94 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 119:94 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Zephaniah 3:17Isaiah 64:8-10Psalms 86:2Isaiah 44:2Psalms 119:27Acts 27:23-24

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