CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 119:157 Though my persecutors and foes are many, I have not turned from Your testimonies.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/119-157.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/19_Psa_119_157.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 119:157 - Your Word is a Lamp to My Feet" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Though my persecutors and foes are many, I have not turned from Your testimonies." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-LR4HSKRP2H"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-LR4HSKRP2H'); </script><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/119-157.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/119-157.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/119.htm">Chapter 119</a> > Verse 157</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad17.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/119-156.htm" title="Psalm 119:156">◄</a> Psalm 119:157 <a href="/psalms/119-158.htm" title="Psalm 119:158">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/psalms/119.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/psalms/119.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Many are the foes who persecute me, but I have not turned from your statutes.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/psalms/119.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Many persecute and trouble me, yet I have not swerved from your laws.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/119.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, but I do not swerve from your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/119.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Though my persecutors and foes are many, I have not turned from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/119.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Many <i>are</i> my persecutors and mine enemies; <i>yet</i> do I not decline from thy testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/119.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Many <i>are</i> my persecutors and my enemies, <i>Yet</i> I do not turn from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/119.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my enemies, <i>Yet</i> I do not turn aside from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/119.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, Yet I do not turn aside from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/119.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, <i>Yet</i> I do not turn aside from Thy testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/119.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, <i>Yet</i> I do not turn aside from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/119.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, Yet I do not turn away from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/119.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />My persecutors and foes are many. I have not turned from your decrees.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/119.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />My persecutors and foes are many. I have not turned from Your decrees. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/119.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and mine adversaries; Yet have I not swerved from thy testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/119.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />I have a lot of brutal enemies, but still I never turn from your laws. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/119.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and mine adversaries; yet have I not swerved from they testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/119.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />I have many persecutors and opponents, [yet] I have not turned away from your written instructions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/119.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />I have many enemies and oppressors, but I do not fail to obey your laws. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/119.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Though my persecutors and adversaries are numerous, I do not turn aside from your decrees.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/119.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />The enemies who chase me are numerous. Yet I do not turn aside from your rules. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/119.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries. I haven't swerved from your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/119.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my enemies; yet I do not decline from thy testimonies.<div class="vheading2"><b>Majority Text Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/119.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Though my persecutors and foes are many, I have not turned from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/119.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries. I haven’t swerved from your testimonies. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/119.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />My pursuers and adversaries are many, "" I have not turned aside from Your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/119.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Many are my pursuers, and adversaries, From Thy testimonies I have not turned aside.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/119.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Many are they pursuing me and pressing me: I declined not from thy testimonies.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/119.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Many are they that persecute me, and afflict me; but I have not declined from thy testimonies. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/119.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 118:157>Many are those who persecute me and who trouble me. I have not turned away from your testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/119.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Though my persecutors and foes are many, I do not turn from your testimonies. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/119.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and my adversaries, yet I do not swerve from your decrees.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/119.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/119.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />My persecutors and my enemies have increased and I have not departed from your testimonies.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/119.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Many are my persecutors and mine adversaries; Yet have I not turned aside from Thy testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/119.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Many are they that persecute me and oppress me: <i>but</i> I have not declined from thy testimonies.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/119-157.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=15879" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/psalms/119.htm">Your Word is a Lamp to My Feet</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">156</span>Great are Your mercies, O LORD; revive me according to Your ordinances. <span class="reftext">157</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/7291.htm" title="7291: rō·ḏə·p̄ay (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mpc:: 1cs) -- To pursue, chase, persecute. A primitive root; to run after (of time) gone by).">Though my persecutors</a> <a href="/hebrew/6862.htm" title="6862: wə·ṣā·rāy (Conj-w:: N-mpc:: 1cs) -- Narrow, a tight place, a pebble, an opponent. Or tsar; from tsarar; narrow; a tight place; also a pebble; an opponent.">and foes</a> <a href="/hebrew/7227.htm" title="7227: rab·bîm (Adj-mp) -- Much, many, great. By contracted from rabab; abundant.">are many,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">I have not</a> <a href="/hebrew/5186.htm" title="5186: nā·ṭî·ṯî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away; used in a great variety of application.">turned</a> <a href="/hebrew/5715.htm" title="5715: mê·‘ê·ḏə·wō·ṯe·ḵā (Prep-m:: N-fpc:: 2ms) -- Testimony. Feminine of ed; testimony.">from Your testimonies.</a> </span><span class="reftext">158</span>I look on the faithless with loathing because they do not keep Your word.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-10.htm">Matthew 5:10-12</a></span><br />Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. / Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/15-18.htm">John 15:18-20</a></span><br />If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. / If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. / Remember the word that I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well; if they kept My word, they will keep yours as well.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/3-12.htm">2 Timothy 3:12</a></span><br />Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/8-35.htm">Romans 8:35-37</a></span><br />Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? / As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” / No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-12.htm">1 Peter 4:12-14</a></span><br />Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. / But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory. / If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/14-22.htm">Acts 14:22</a></span><br />strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8-10</a></span><br />We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; / persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed. / We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/12-3.htm">Hebrews 12:3</a></span><br />Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/revelation/2-10.htm">Revelation 2:10</a></span><br />Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison to test you, and you will suffer tribulation for ten days. Be faithful even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-2.htm">James 1:2-4</a></span><br />Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. / Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/3-13.htm">1 John 3:13</a></span><br />So do not be surprised, brothers, if the world hates you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/1-29.htm">Philippians 1:29-30</a></span><br />For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, / since you are encountering the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-3.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:3-4</a></span><br />so that none of you would be shaken by these trials. For you know that we are destined for this. / Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/51-7.htm">Isaiah 51:7</a></span><br />Listen to Me, you who know what is right, you people with My law in your hearts: Do not fear the scorn of men; do not be broken by their insults.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/20-10.htm">Jeremiah 20:10-11</a></span><br />For I have heard the whispering of many: “Terror is on every side! Report him; let us report him!” All my trusted friends watch for my fall: “Perhaps he will be deceived so that we may prevail against him and take our vengeance upon him.” / But the LORD is with me like a fearsome warrior. Therefore, my persecutors will stumble and will not prevail. Since they have not succeeded, they will be utterly put to shame, with an everlasting disgrace that will never be forgotten.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Many are my persecutors and my enemies; yet do I not decline from your testimonies.</p><p class="hdg">many</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/3-1.htm">Psalm 3:1,2</a></b></br> A Psalm of David, when he fled from Absalom his son. LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many <i>are</i> they that rise up against me… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/22-12.htm">Psalm 22:12,16</a></b></br> Many bulls have compassed me: strong <i>bulls</i> of Bashan have beset me round… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/25-19.htm">Psalm 25:19</a></b></br> Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred.</p><p class="hdg">yet do I</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/119-51.htm">Psalm 119:51,110</a></b></br> The proud have had me greatly in derision: <i>yet</i> have I not declined from thy law… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/44-17.htm">Psalm 44:17</a></b></br> All this is come upon us; yet have we not forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/17-9.htm">Job 17:9</a></b></br> The righteous also shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/119-139.htm">Adversaries</a> <a href="/2_kings/20-10.htm">Decline</a> <a href="/psalms/119-51.htm">Declined</a> <a href="/psalms/119-139.htm">Enemies</a> <a href="/psalms/119-139.htm">Foes</a> <a href="/psalms/119-156.htm">Great</a> <a href="/psalms/119-139.htm">Oppressors</a> <a href="/psalms/119-150.htm">Persecute</a> <a href="/psalms/119-84.htm">Persecutors</a> <a href="/psalms/119-155.htm">Statutes</a> <a href="/psalms/119-51.htm">Swerve</a> <a href="/psalms/119-51.htm">Swerved</a> <a href="/psalms/119-152.htm">Testimonies</a> <a href="/psalms/119-132.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/psalms/119-139.htm">Turned</a> <a href="/psalms/119-152.htm">Unchanging</a> <a href="/psalms/119-154.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/136-24.htm">Adversaries</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-5.htm">Decline</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-8.htm">Declined</a> <a href="/psalms/127-5.htm">Enemies</a> <a href="/psalms/136-24.htm">Foes</a> <a href="/psalms/119-159.htm">Great</a> <a href="/psalms/123-4.htm">Oppressors</a> <a href="/psalms/119-161.htm">Persecute</a> <a href="/psalms/142-6.htm">Persecutors</a> <a href="/psalms/119-167.htm">Statutes</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-5.htm">Swerve</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-6.htm">Swerved</a> <a href="/psalms/119-167.htm">Testimonies</a> <a href="/psalms/125-5.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/psalms/123-2.htm">Turned</a> <a href="/psalms/119-160.htm">Unchanging</a> <a href="/psalms/119-158.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 119</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-1.htm">This psalm contains various prayers, praises, and professions of obedience.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">2. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-2.htm">Aleph.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">9. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-9.htm">Beth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-17.htm">Gimel</a></span><br><span class="reftext">25. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-25.htm">Daleth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">33. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-33.htm">He</a></span><br><span class="reftext">41. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-41.htm">Waw</a></span><br><span class="reftext">49. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-49.htm">Zayin</a></span><br><span class="reftext">57. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-57.htm">Heth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">65. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-65.htm">Teth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">73. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-73.htm">Yodh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">81. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-81.htm">Kaph</a></span><br><span class="reftext">89. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-89.htm">Lamedh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">97. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-97.htm">Mem</a></span><br><span class="reftext">105. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-105.htm">Nun</a></span><br><span class="reftext">113. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-113.htm">Samekh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">121. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-121.htm">Ayin</a></span><br><span class="reftext">129. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-129.htm">Pe</a></span><br><span class="reftext">137. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-137.htm">Tsadhe</a></span><br><span class="reftext">145. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-145.htm">Qoph</a></span><br><span class="reftext">153. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-153.htm">Resh</a></span><br><span class="reftext">161. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-161.htm">Sin and Shin</a></span><br><span class="reftext">169. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/119-169.htm">Taw</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/119.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/119.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Though my persecutors and foes are many</b><br>This phrase acknowledges the reality of opposition faced by the psalmist, which is a common theme throughout the Psalms. Historically, Israel often faced numerous enemies, both external and internal. The psalmist's experience can be likened to that of King David, who faced persecution from Saul and other adversaries. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the righteous facing trials, as seen in the lives of Joseph, Daniel, and the early Christians. The mention of "many" indicates the overwhelming nature of the opposition, yet it also highlights the psalmist's resilience and faith.<p><b>I have not turned from Your testimonies</b><br>The psalmist's commitment to God's testimonies, or decrees, underscores the importance of steadfastness in faith. In the context of the Old Testament, "testimonies" refers to God's laws and commandments given to Israel. This phrase emphasizes obedience and loyalty to God's word despite external pressures. It echoes the sentiment found in <a href="/joshua/1-8.htm">Joshua 1:8</a>, where adherence to the law is linked to success and prosperity. The psalmist's unwavering dedication serves as a type of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the law and remained obedient to the Father even unto death. This commitment is a call for believers to remain faithful to God's word, drawing strength from it in times of adversity.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/psalmist.htm">Psalmist</a></b><br>The author of <a href="/bsb/psalms/119.htm">Psalm 119</a>, traditionally believed to be King David, who expresses his devotion to God's law despite facing numerous adversaries.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/p/persecutors_and_foes.htm">Persecutors and Foes</a></b><br>These are the adversaries or enemies of the psalmist, representing those who oppose or challenge his faith and commitment to God's word.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/g/god's_testimonies.htm">God's Testimonies</a></b><br>Refers to the decrees, laws, and commandments of God as revealed in the Scriptures, which the psalmist remains faithful to despite opposition.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/f/faithfulness_amidst_adversity.htm">Faithfulness Amidst Adversity</a></b><br>The psalmist's commitment to God's testimonies despite many adversaries teaches us the importance of remaining faithful to God's word, even when facing challenges or opposition.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_god's_word.htm">The Power of God's Word</a></b><br>The psalmist's reliance on God's testimonies highlights the sustaining power of Scripture in the life of a believer. It serves as a reminder to immerse ourselves in God's word for strength and guidance.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/perseverance_in_faith.htm">Perseverance in Faith</a></b><br>Just as the psalmist did not turn away from God's testimonies, we are called to persevere in our faith, trusting that God will uphold us through trials.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/i/identifying_modern-day_persecutors.htm">Identifying Modern-Day Persecutors</a></b><br>In today's context, persecutors may not always be people but can be societal pressures, ideologies, or personal struggles that challenge our faith. Recognizing these helps us to stand firm in our beliefs.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/encouragement_in_community.htm">Encouragement in Community</a></b><br>The psalmist's experience encourages us to seek support and encouragement from fellow believers when facing adversities, reinforcing the importance of Christian community.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_119.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 119</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_david's_authorship_of_psalm_119.htm">How can we reconcile the traditional view that Psalm 119 was authored by David with scholarly assertions that it may have multiple authors or was written much later (Psalm 119)?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_were_old_testament_saints_saved.htm">What is spiritual development?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/are_psalm_140's_'evil_men'_historical.htm">In Psalm 140:1, can we historically verify the 'evil men' mentioned or are they purely metaphorical?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_do_new_teachings_align_with_psalm_119.htm">In the New Testament, certain laws seem superseded by new teachings (e.g., Hebrews 8:13); how does this harmonize with Psalm 119's emphasis on the perpetuity of God's law (Psalm 119)?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/119.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 157.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Many are my persecutors and mine enemies</span>. Hitherto this had been implied (vers. 22, 23, 51, 61, etc.) rather than expressed. Now the thought of <a href="/psalms/25-18.htm">Psalm 25:18</a> comes over the writer, "Consider mine enemies, for they are <span class="accented">many</span>." <span class="accented"><span class="cmt_word"></span>Yet do I not decline from thy testimonies</span>. Repeated from ver. 51. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/119-157.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">[Though] my persecutors</span><br /><span class="heb">רֹדְפַ֣י</span> <span class="translit">(rō·ḏə·p̄ay)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7291.htm">Strong's 7291: </a> </span><span class="str2">To pursue, chase, persecute</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and foes</span><br /><span class="heb">וְצָרָ֑י</span> <span class="translit">(wə·ṣā·rāy)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6862.htm">Strong's 6862: </a> </span><span class="str2">Narrow, a tight place, a pebble, an opponent</span><br /><br /><span class="word">are many,</span><br /><span class="heb">רַ֭בִּים</span> <span class="translit">(rab·bîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7227.htm">Strong's 7227: </a> </span><span class="str2">Much, many, great</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I have not</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹ֣א</span> <span class="translit">(lō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">turned</span><br /><span class="heb">נָטִֽיתִי׃</span> <span class="translit">(nā·ṭî·ṯî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5186.htm">Strong's 5186: </a> </span><span class="str2">To stretch out, spread out, extend, incline, bend</span><br /><br /><span class="word">from Your testimonies.</span><br /><span class="heb">מֵ֝עֵדְוֺתֶ֗יךָ</span> <span class="translit">(mê·‘ê·ḏə·wō·ṯe·ḵā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Noun - feminine plural construct | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5715.htm">Strong's 5715: </a> </span><span class="str2">Testimony</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/119-157.htm">Psalm 119:157 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/119-157.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 119:157 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/119-156.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 119:156"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 119:156" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/119-158.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 119:158"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 119:158" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>