Psalms 119:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 119:20 mean?

Psalms 119:20 expresses a deep, ongoing longing in the writer’s soul for God’s judgments, meaning God’s laws or decisions. The verse describes this desire as so intense that it feels as if the writer’s soul is breaking from yearning for God’s guidance at all times.

The writer of Psalms 119, traditionally understood to be someone devoted to God’s law, is speaking directly to God. The verse uses strong emotional language to show how much the writer values God’s instructions, describing a constant, almost overwhelming desire to understand and follow God’s ways. This longing is not just occasional but is present “at all times,” highlighting the central place of God’s word in the writer’s life.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 119:20

• soul (נֶפֶשׁ, nephesh): This word often means a person’s life, self, or inner being. Here, it emphasizes that the longing comes from the deepest part of the writer.
• breaketh (גָּרְסָה, garsah): This word can mean to be crushed or consumed. It paints a picture of longing so strong that it feels physically exhausting or overwhelming.
• longing (תַּאֲבָה, ta’avah): This word refers to a strong desire or craving. The verse uses it to show that the writer’s yearning for God’s judgments is not casual but deeply felt.
• judgments (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat): This word means God’s decisions, laws, or rulings. The focus is on wanting to know and live by what God has declared to be right.
• times (עֵת, eth): This word means “at all times” or “continually,” stressing that this longing is not just a passing feeling but a constant part of the writer’s life.

Why Psalms 119:20 matters

• Psalms 119:20 clears up the idea that devotion to God’s word is only about duty; it shows that true devotion can be deeply emotional and heartfelt.
• The verse highlights that the desire for God’s guidance is not just for special occasions but is meant to be a continual, lifelong pursuit.
• This verse fits into the larger theme of Psalms 119, where the writer repeatedly shows love and longing for God’s instructions, making it clear that God’s word is central to a faithful life.