The exquisite uniqueness of Psalm 119 is that its composer uses each successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet to sing an octave of praise to God’s Word. Daleth (pronounced da-let) is the fourth letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
Its octave of praise reflects a desperate sense of abasement: “My soul clings to the dust…My soul melts from heaviness” (vv. 25, 28). This can only be remedied by God’s written counsel: “revive me according to Your word…strengthen me according to Your word” (vv. 25, 28).
To enjoy God’s blessings to the fullest, the writer states: “I have declared my ways, and You answered me; teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts, so shall I meditate on Your wonderful works” (vv. 26-27). Then he requests, “Remove from me the way of lying and grant me Your law graciously” (v. 29).
Daleth’s tribute concludes with three personal decisions made by the writer: “I have chosen the way of truth; Your judgments I have laid before me. I cling to Your testimonies; O Lord, do not put me to shame! I will run the course of Your commandments for You shall enlarge my heart” (vv. 30-32).
“So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (Acts 20:32).
