Psalms 119:37 (KJV)

What does Psalms 119:37 mean?

Psalms 119:37 is a prayer asking God to help the speaker turn away from looking at worthless or empty things and instead to give them life by guiding them in God’s way. The verse expresses a desire to avoid distractions that do not matter and to focus on living according to God’s teachings.

The speaker here is the psalmist, traditionally understood to be someone deeply devoted to God, speaking directly to God in a personal plea. The situation is one of seeking help to avoid being drawn to things that are meaningless or vain, and instead to be energized or revived to follow the path God sets out. This verse fits into the larger context of Psalm 119, which is a long meditation on the value of God’s word and commandments.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 119:37

• "Vanity" (שָׁוְא, shav’): This word often means emptiness, worthlessness, or things that have no lasting value. The psalmist is not just talking about obvious evil, but anything that distracts from what really matters.
• "Quicken" (חָיָה, chayah): This word means to make alive or revive. The psalmist is asking not just for help to avoid distractions, but for a renewed sense of purpose and energy to live according to God’s way.
• "Way" (דֶּרֶךְ, derek): This word means a path or road, but is often used in the Psalms to refer to a way of life or conduct. The psalmist wants to be made alive specifically in the way God wants them to live.

Why Psalms 119:37 matters

• This verse clarifies that the struggle is not only against obvious wrongdoing, but also against things that are simply empty or pointless, which can still pull someone away from what is truly important.
• The emphasis on being "quickened" or made alive shows that following God’s way is not just about avoiding bad things, but about finding real life and vitality in doing what is right.
• In the context of Psalm 119, this verse highlights the psalmist’s ongoing dependence on God’s help to stay focused and faithful, showing that spiritual life is an active, ongoing process.