Psalm 119:9

Translations

Modern

How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.

Traditional

ב BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

Literal

How can a young man keep pure his way? By guarding it according to Your word.

Latin

In quo corrigit adolescentior viam suam? in custodiendo sermones tuos.

Original

Hebrew

English

How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.

Notes

Psalms 119:9

A young person often acts foolishly (Proverbs 22:15) and can easily make mistakes that ruin their life (Proverbs 7:6–23). However, youth is the best time to build self-discipline and seek wisdom (see Psalm 34:11; Proverbs 1:4).
keep his way pure: This means avoiding corruption by evil and sin and developing the integrity described in Psalm 15.

Psalms 119:9–16

Beth (ב) is the second letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It makes the beginning of the next section of this psalm.

The psalmist is determined to stay pure and encourages gaining wisdom through God's principles (Psalm 119:9) and instructions (119:10–16).

Psalms 119:1–176

This psalm blends wisdom, lament, praise, thanksgiving, and confession. It often uses eight Hebrew words translated as:

“Instructions”
“law”
“words”
“commandments”
“statutes”
“judgments”
“promises”
“precepts“

These words encourage love for and obedience to God's instructions in the Scriptures (see 2 Timothy 3:14–17). A deep commitment to these instructions unifies the psalm.

Theme notes and profiles

God's Word at the Center The Dangers of Sin

Related verses

2 Timothy 2:22
Flee from youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, together with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
James 1:21–25
Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls.
2 Timothy 3:15–17
From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
Joshua 1:7
Above all, be strong and very courageous. Be careful to observe all the law that My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may prosper wherever you go.
Psalm 119:11
I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.
Psalm 25:7
Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my rebellious acts; remember me according to Your loving devotion, because of Your goodness, O LORD.
Titus 2:4–6
In this way they can train the young women to love their husbands and children,
Psalm 1:1–3
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers.
Proverbs 1:10
My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them.
Psalm 34:11
Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
Psalm 19:7–11
The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple.
Psalm 119:97–105
Oh, how I love Your law! All day long it is my meditation.

Glossary

Acrostic Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Biblical Concept of Law Music Poetry, Biblical Proverbs, Book of Psalms, Book of Word, Word of God, Words of God

Topics

Children: Commandments To Instruction: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Keeping your Word Memorizing Scripture Pornography Purity Quiet Time Reading your Bible The Scriptures: Designed For: Cleansing the Ways Watchfulness: General Scriptures Concerning Word of God: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Young Men: General Scriptures Concerning

Psalm 119:9

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Related verses?

Glossary?

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