Old Testament
Psalms 119:131
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I opened my mouth and panted, for I longed for your commandments.
Compare translations
I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments.
What Psalms 119:131 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep yearning for God's commandments. The imagery of opening the mouth and panting suggests an intense desire, similar to how someone might gasp for air when they are thirsty or exhausted. This longing indicates that the psalmist finds life and sustenance in God's laws and teachings. The commandments are not seen as burdensome rules but as vital guidance that brings fulfillment and direction. The psalmist's eagerness to receive God's word highlights the importance of spiritual hunger and the need for divine wisdom in daily life. This verse encourages believers to cultivate a similar desire for God's guidance, recognizing that His commandments lead to a more meaningful and purposeful existence.
How to apply Psalms 119:131 to your life
To apply this verse, we should actively seek God's teachings in our lives. This can be done through regular reading of the Bible, prayer, and meditation on His commandments. By fostering a deep desire for God's guidance, we can navigate life's challenges with wisdom and clarity.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 119:131
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 119:131
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 119:131 mean?
Psalms 119:131 expresses the psalmist's deep longing for God's commandments, comparing it to the intense need for air when gasping for breath. This verse highlights the importance of seeking spiritual guidance and finding sustenance in God's teachings.
What is the meaning of 'I opened my mouth and panted' in Psalms 119:131?
The phrase 'I opened my mouth and panted' symbolizes a strong desire and eagerness for God's commandments, akin to thirst. It illustrates the psalmist's urgent need for spiritual nourishment and guidance from God's word.
How can I apply Psalms 119:131 in my life?
To apply Psalms 119:131, actively seek God's teachings through Bible reading, prayer, and meditation. Cultivating a desire for His guidance can help you navigate life's challenges with wisdom.
What themes are present in Psalms 119:131?
Key themes in Psalms 119:131 include the desire for God's word, spiritual hunger, the importance of commandments, divine guidance, and yearning for wisdom. These themes encourage believers to seek a deeper relationship with God's teachings.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.