Old Testament

Psalms 19:9

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever. The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.

What Psalms 19:9 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse highlights two important aspects of God's character: His fear and His judgments. The 'fear of the LORD' refers to a deep respect and reverence for God, which is described as 'clean' and lasting forever. This means that having a proper attitude towards God is pure and beneficial for our lives. The second part speaks about God's judgments, which are described as true and righteous. This assures us that God's decisions and laws are just and fair, providing a solid foundation for moral living. Together, these elements emphasize the importance of respecting God and trusting in His guidance, as they lead to a life that is aligned with truth and righteousness. In essence, this verse encourages believers to cultivate a healthy fear of God and to rely on His just nature in all aspects of life.

How to apply Psalms 19:9 to your life

To apply this verse, we should strive to develop a respectful relationship with God, recognizing His authority and goodness. This involves seeking to understand His judgments and living according to His truth, which can guide our decisions and actions in daily life.

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.

A painting of Naomi weeping between her daughters-in-law Ruth and Orpah outside a house in Moab

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Ruth

Panoramic view across Tel Beer Sheva archaeological site and surrounding landscape.

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.

Beersheba

Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 19:9

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 19:9

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 19:9 mean?

Psalms 19:9 emphasizes the importance of having a deep respect for God, described as 'the fear of the LORD,' which is pure and everlasting. It also highlights that God's judgments are true and just, assuring us that His guidance is reliable for moral living.

What is the meaning of 'fear of the LORD' in Psalms 19:9?

In Psalms 19:9, 'fear of the LORD' refers to a profound respect and reverence for God. This attitude is considered clean and beneficial, leading to a life aligned with His truth and righteousness.

How can I apply Psalms 19:9 in my life?

To apply Psalms 19:9, focus on developing a respectful relationship with God by understanding His authority and living according to His truths. This approach can guide your daily decisions and actions.

What themes are present in Psalms 19:9?

Psalms 19:9 includes themes such as the fear of the LORD, purity, endurance, truth, righteousness, and divine judgments. These themes highlight the importance of respecting God and relying on His just nature.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.