Psalm 119 (118):129Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Now consider the next words: “Blessed are they that keep His testimonies, and seek Him with all their heart” (Psalm 117:2). It appears that this description reflects the same group of the blessed we have just mentioned. To uphold the testimonies of the Lord and to pursue Him wholeheartedly is synonymous with being blameless on the righteous path; it signifies walking in the law of the Lord. He continues, “For they that do evil shall not walk in His ways” (Psalm 118:3). However, we observe that those who commit iniquity do examine the testimonies of the Lord, primarily because they favor knowledge over righteousness. Others may also study the testimonies not because they live righteously, but to learn how to do so. Such individuals do not yet walk in blameless adherence to the law of the Lord, and thus they are not yet counted among the blessed.

It is established in the Psalm: “They that do evil do not walk in His ways” (Psalm 118:3). Yet we must strive, with God’s assistance, who holds both us and our words in His hands (Wisdom 7:16), to ensure that what is accurately stated is also understood in the right context, so it does not confuse the reader or listener. We must take care not to imply that all saints are excluded from walking in the ways of the Lord due to sin, since “if we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8-9). Alternatively, though they undoubtedly walk in the ways of the Lord, we should not mistakenly regard them as sinless, which would be certainly erroneous. This is stated not merely to prevent arrogance, but to clarify the truth that “if we confess our sins, He, being faithful and just, will forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

What does it mean when it states: “You have accused us of keeping Your commandments too strictly?” (Psalm 118:4). Is the burden you’ve placed upon us excessive? Or have you required less than what is fitting? Whatever interpretation we take, the meaning seems to contrast starkly with the noble phrase cherished by the Greeks, and likewise esteemed by the Latins: “Do nothing excessively.” However, the Latin language often uses the term “nimis” in a way that enhances meaning; thus, when it appears as an accusation of excessive observance of Your commandments, we draw several conclusions if we are prudent. For, when we say to a dear friend, “I love you too much,” we do not intend to imply an inappropriate excess, but a depth of love.

Oh, if only, he expresses, my ways might become straight, that I may observe Your decrees (Psalm 118:5). Indeed, he assumes responsibility: If only I could grasp what You demand. When you hear this, recognize the words of one who is willing; and upon realizing the expression of desire, cast aside the arrogance of unwarranted certainty. For who claims to desire what he can achieve without assistance? Thus, if one seeks what God commands, one ought to fervently pray for divine help in fulfilling those commands.

And I shall not be ashamed while I keep all Your commandments (Psalm 118:6). We ought to regard God’s commandments as a mirror when they are narrated or recalled, as the apostle James reminds us (James 1:23-25). This individual yearns to look upon God’s commandments without befuddlement, striving to be a doer of the Word, not just a hearer. This explains his desire for straight paths and adherence to God’s statutes. But how can one become aligned, if not by the grace of God? Otherwise, he may find in God’s law not joy, but confusion, if he looks into the commandments without genuine intent.

“I will confess to You, O Lord, with integrity of heart; by this, I shall come to know the judgments of Your righteousness” (Psalm 117:7). This confession is not one of sin, but rather an expression of praise, akin to, “I thank You, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth,” (Matthew 11:25) and as written in Ecclesiasticus: “So confess all the works of God that they are very good” (Sirach 39:15-16). “I confess to You,” he asserts, “according to the direction of my heart.” Indeed, if my ways be made right, I will acknowledge You, for it is You who has accomplished this, and it is Your glory, not mine.

He further states, “I will keep Your decrees” (Psalm 118:8). And what follows? “O leave me not even too much!” or as some versions convey, “not even excessively.” Yet, since God did not abandon the world in its wilderness of sin, He would have entirely forsaken it had it not been sustained by an enduring remedy, which is the grace of God through our Lord Jesus Christ; and even now, according to this request from the body of Christ, He has not forsaken it to any extreme, for God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself (2 Corinthians 5:19).

Hence, the commandments are illuminated by the testimonies. The overall purpose of Holy Scripture is to guide believers in how to live righteously rather than merely to create scholars.

Why are these divine visions termed "marvelous"? The marvel lies in the perfection of God's character, His creation, and testament to salvation through Christ. The commandments are extraordinary because they provide perfect guidance, lacking any imperfections. Much like beautifully arranged items, they captivate and delight the observer. The beauty of God's visions is evident in their outcomes, as they elevate those who follow them into alignment with God's image while leading them ultimately to eternal rest and joy after life's journey.

Moreover, they hold a sense of mystery. Beyond moral directives, God's visions establish the foundation for worship, both simple and profound, depicting future blessings. The prophet, peering into this future, was filled with awe, though unable to fully grasp it. Augustine reminds us of the marvel in a law that, though incapable of granting life, directs us toward the true life. As we move away from the old ways and embrace the new, the magnificence of God's revelations becomes evident.

What necessitated the coming of the Son of God in flesh and His suffering? Without faith in His incarnation and redemptive sacrifice, mere adherence to good living is insufficient to please God. What purpose did the ascension hold after His resurrection, alongside the sending of the Holy Spirit? It signifies that, to facilitate the Spirit's dwelling within us, the path must be cleared. A faithful pursuit of God’s pleasure and salvation requires welcoming the Holy Spirit through faith, desire for God, and a complete surrender to His transformative work, participating in sacred rites that convey the unseen Spirit via visible elements.

What is remarkable is that a genuinely moral life is contingent upon the active grace of the Holy Spirit, which operates through human freedom and effort. To be clothed in new spiritual existence, one's old self must die—even if not physically. Communion with Christ's cross, through genuine self-denial and the trials of life, is essential for receiving spiritual life.

These principles of the Christian journey are indeed wondrous, and the commandments are equally so. When struck on one cheek, we are guided to offer the other; if someone takes our coat, we are counseled to give our shirt too; if compelled to walk one mile, we are invited to go two; we are called to love our enemies and do good to those who harm us while forgiving those who offend us. Each act is presented as an exemplary conduct, steering us toward the heart of Christianity. Recognizing the extraordinary nature of God's visions inspires us to reflect, study, and desire to embody them in our lives. Thus, the prophet's soul, filled with wonder for God's revelations, diligently sought to understand them, as indicated by his statement: "For this cause my soul drinketh me." This earnest pursuit keeps one focused on living righteously, cultivating an appreciation for divine guidance and igniting a passion to embody those principles. Consequently, one who meditates on the law of the Lord becomes rooted like a tree near flowing waters, bearing fruit in season (Psalm 1:3). Scripture does not endorse mere intellectual inquiry but is centered on life and its sacred organization, as theoretical studies often mask a neglect for the real essence of life.

The wonders of profound wisdom are found within Your law, which is why I seek to understand it with such zeal; when the revelation of Your word is disclosed through gracious illumination, it becomes light within the soul, especially for the humble. I yearn for this light, hear my prayer and grant me enlightenment. Provide me with the strength to walk along the path of Your commandments and deliver me from the oppression of my foes, making it easier for me to fulfill Your law. Grant me Your gracious light, for my situation is dire. The imagery in this verse reflects a gasping individual opening their mouth to inhale life-giving air, symbolizing the inner person's yearning for divine vitality.