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Psalms 119:130

Psalms 119:130 in Multiple Translations

The unfolding of Your words gives light; it informs the simple.

The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

The opening of thy words giveth light; It giveth understanding unto the simple.

The opening of your words gives light; it gives good sense to the simple.

Studying your words brings light so that even the uneducated can understand.

The entrance into thy wordes sheweth light, and giueth vnderstanding to the simple.

The opening of Thy words enlighteneth, Instructing the simple.

The entrance of your words gives light. It gives understanding to the simple.

The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding to the simple.

When someone explains ◄your words/what you have said►, it is as though they are lighting a light; what they say causes even people who have not learned your laws to be wise.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 119:130

BAB
Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Psalms 119:130 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB פֵּ֖תַח דְּבָרֶ֥י/ךָ יָאִ֗יר מֵבִ֥ין פְּתָיִֽים
פֵּ֖תַח pêthach H6608 opening N-ms
דְּבָרֶ֥י/ךָ dâbâr H1697 Chronicles N-mp | Suff
יָאִ֗יר ʼôwr H215 to light V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
מֵבִ֥ין bîyn H995 to understand V-Hiphil
פְּתָיִֽים pᵉthîy H6612 simple N-mp
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 119:130

פֵּ֖תַח pêthach H6608 "opening" N-ms
This Hebrew word means an opening or entrance, and is used figuratively to describe disclosure or revelation, as seen in the entrance to the temple or a city.
Definition: opening, unfolding, entrance, doorway
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: entrance. See also: Psalms 119:130.
דְּבָרֶ֥י/ךָ dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" N-mp | Suff
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
יָאִ֗יר ʼôwr H215 "to light" V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
Or means to give light, whether physically or spiritually, as in Psalm 119:105 where God's word is a light to our path.
Definition: 1) to be or become light, shine 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to become light (day) 1a2) to shine (of the sun) 1a3) to become bright 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be illuminated 1b2) to become lighted up 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to give light, shine (of sun, moon, and stars) 1c2) to illumine, light up, cause to shine, shine 1c3) to kindle, light (candle, wood) 1c4) lighten (of the eyes, his law, etc) 1c5) to make shine (of the face)
Usage: Occurs in 43 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break of day, glorious, kindle, (be, en-, give, show) light (-en, -ened), set on fire, shine. See also: Genesis 1:15; Psalms 67:2; Psalms 13:4.
מֵבִ֥ין bîyn H995 "to understand" V-Hiphil
To understand or discern, this verb means to separate mentally and know something with your mind, as seen in Proverbs where it talks about gaining insight.
Definition: 1) to discern, understand, consider 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to perceive, discern 1a2) to understand, know (with the mind) 1a3) to observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider 1a4) to have discernment, insight, understanding 1b) (Niphal) to be discerning, intelligent, discreet, have understanding 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to understand 1c2) to cause to understand, give understanding, teach 1d) (Hithpolel) to show oneself discerning or attentive, consider diligently 1e) (Polel) to teach, instruct 2) (TWOT) prudent, regard
Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: attend, consider, be cunning, diligently, direct, discern, eloquent, feel, inform, instruct, have intelligence, know, look well to, mark, perceive, be prudent, regard, (can) skill(-full), teach, think, (cause, make to, get, give, have) understand(-ing), view, (deal) wise(-ly, man). See also: Genesis 41:33; Psalms 139:2; Psalms 5:2.
פְּתָיִֽים pᵉthîy H6612 "simple" N-mp
This Hebrew word means being simple or naive, like someone who is easily influenced. It appears in Proverbs 1:4, where Solomon advises against being foolish. In the Bible, it often refers to someone lacking wisdom.
Definition: adj simple, foolish, open-minded
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: foolish, simple(-icity, one). See also: Psalms 19:8; Proverbs 9:6; Psalms 116:6.

Study Notes — Psalms 119:130

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Psalms 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
2 Proverbs 6:23 For this commandment is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way to life,
3 2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
4 Acts 26:18 to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those sanctified by faith in Me.’
5 Psalms 19:7 The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple.
6 Luke 1:77–79 to give to His people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the Dawn will visit us from on high, to shine on those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
7 2 Peter 1:19 We also have the word of the prophets as confirmed beyond doubt. And you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.
8 Proverbs 1:22–23 “How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge? If you had repented at my rebuke, then surely I would have poured out my spirit on you; I would have made my words known to you.
9 Ephesians 5:13–14 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for everything that is illuminated becomes a light itself. So it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”
10 2 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

Psalms 119:130 Summary

This verse means that when we read and understand God's word, it gives us spiritual light and helps us make sense of things. The 'unfolding' of God's words is like a process of discovery, where we learn and grow in our faith, as seen in Psalms 119:105. It's especially helpful for those who are humble and willing to learn, and it gives them the wisdom they need to live a godly life, as seen in Proverbs 9:10. By reading and applying God's word, we can gain a deeper understanding of His will and purposes, and live in a way that honors Him, as seen in John 14:15 and John 15:7.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean for God's words to 'unfold' and give light?

This refers to the process of understanding and applying God's teachings, as seen in Psalms 119:130, which brings spiritual illumination and guidance to our lives, similar to what is described in Ephesians 1:18.

Who are the 'simple' mentioned in this verse?

The 'simple' refers to those who are humble, teachable, and willing to learn from God's word, as opposed to the proud or stubborn, as seen in Proverbs 1:7 and Proverbs 11:2.

How does the unfolding of God's words inform the simple?

The unfolding of God's words informs the simple by providing them with spiritual understanding, wisdom, and discernment, enabling them to navigate life's challenges and make wise decisions, as seen in Psalms 119:98-100 and James 1:5.

What is the relationship between this verse and the surrounding verses?

This verse is connected to the surrounding verses, such as Psalms 119:128-129, which express the psalmist's admiration for God's precepts and testimonies, and Psalms 119:131-132, which convey the psalmist's longing for God's commandments and mercy, highlighting the importance of God's word in the believer's life, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:3 and Matthew 4:4.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some ways in which God's words have given you light and understanding in your life?
  2. How can you cultivate a humble and teachable heart, like the 'simple' mentioned in this verse, to receive spiritual guidance from God's word?
  3. In what areas of your life do you need the unfolding of God's words to inform and direct you, and how can you seek His wisdom and guidance?
  4. How does this verse encourage you to approach Scripture, and what role should God's word play in your daily life, as seen in Joshua 1:8 and Psalms 1:2-3?

Gill's Exposition on Psalms 119:130

The entrance of thy words giveth light,.... The beginning of them; the first three chapters in Genesis, what light do they give into the origin of all things; the creation of man, his state of

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 119:130

The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. The entrance of thy words giveth light - like the sun's beam entering through an aperture into a dark room.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 119:130

Ver. 130. The entrance of thy words; the very beginnings and rudiments of them; the first discoveries of those sacred mysteries; and much more the depths of them, in which their chief excellency consists. Or, as others both ancient and later interpreters render the place, The opening of thy words; by which may be understood, either, 1. The opening of men’ s minds by the word of God; but that seems to be the same thing with giving light, which here follows; or, 2. The opening or declaration of God’ s mind made in and by his word. Unto the simple; to the most ignorant and unlearned persons, who are but willing to learn.

Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 119:130

Psalms 119:130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.Ver. 130. The entrance of thy words giveth light] So soon as men are over the threshold of thy house, sese lux quaedam inenarrabilis conspiciendam offert, a marvellous light shineth about them; so little cause is there that any should accuse God’ s word of darkness and hardness; or give way to negligence and carelessness of the Scriptures, because they are wonderful. Lex, lux, the law is a light, Proverbs 6:23, and the gospel a great light, Matthew 4:16 2 Peter 1:19. It giveth understanding to the simple] And maketh them subtle, Proverbs 1:4, so they be but docible. The very first rudiments of religion make wise the rude, so they be not refractory.

Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 119:130

PE. (130) Entrance.—Literally, opening, which the LXX. and Vulg. better represent by “manifestation,” “declaration.” (Comp. “opening and alleging,” Acts 17:3.)

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 119:130

Verse 130. The entrance of thy words giveth light] פתח pethach, the opening of it: when I open my Bible to read, light springs up in my mind. Every sermon, every prayer, every act of faith, is an opening by which light is let into the seeking soul.

Cambridge Bible on Psalms 119:130

130. The entrance of thy words] R.V. the opening of thy words, the setting forth or unfolding of them. Cp. the use of the cognate verb in Psalms 49:4. P.B.V. when thy word goeth forth follows Luther’s earlier rendering wenn dein Wort ausgehet. the simple] Who need instruction to enable them to discern between right and wrong. Cp. Psalms 19:7 note; Psalms 116:6; Proverbs 1:4.

Barnes' Notes on Psalms 119:130

The entrance of thy words giveth light - The Septuagint translates this, “the manifestation (or declaration) - ἡδήλωσις hē dēlōsis - of thy words enlightens.” So the Vulgate.

Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 119:130

ô, Pe.129-136. Let not any iniquity have dominion over me—A sense of his own peril leads the writer to a still deeper, intenser longing for perfected holiness within himself.

Sermons on Psalms 119:130

SermonDescription
Keith Daniel (2008 Usa Tour) the Secret Place by Keith Daniel In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for addressing important matters from the Bible in every congregation. They urge for a sense of urgency and carefulness in addressin
Derek Prince Authority and God's Word - Part 2 by Derek Prince This sermon delves into the profound nature of God's Word as described in Hebrews 4:12, emphasizing its living and powerful essence that penetrates the deepest parts of our being.
John Piper (Biographies) John Owen by John Piper In this sermon, Pastor John Piper reflects on the life and legacy of John Owen, a prominent theologian and pastor. He emphasizes the lesson of trusting in God's providence, even in
Gerhard Du Toit A Life of Effectual Intercessory Prayer by Gerhard Du Toit In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of discerning the difference between the voice of God and the voice of Satan. He shares a story about a man who would pray for
Carter Conlon The Manifested Presence of Jesus by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a king coming to visit someone's house to illustrate how we should approach the presence of God in our lives. He emphasizes the imp
Zac Poonen (Genesis) - Part 2 by Zac Poonen In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of God's declaration that His creation is good. He points out that there is one day in the creation account where God does not
Alfred P. Gibbs Pilgrim's Progress - Part 1 by Alfred P. Gibbs In this sermon, the preacher discusses the life and transformation of John Bunyan, the author of Pilgrim's Progress. Bunyan was initially a lost and guilty sinner, but through read

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