Psalm 119:136 (KJV) says, "Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law." This verse is a powerful expression of the deep emotional response of the psalmist to the disobedience of others towards God's law. It highlights the psalmist’s profound anguish and grief at the sight of people disregarding the commandments and teachings of God. This verse is part of the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119, which is known for its focus on the Word of God and the life-changing impact it has on those who love and obey it.

The verse begins with the words, "Rivers of waters run down mine eyes," a poignant and evocative depiction of the psalmist’s emotional state. The use of the term "rivers" suggests a copious outpouring of tears, indicating the depth of the psalmist’s sorrow and distress. The imagery of flowing waters also conveys a sense of uncontrollable emotion, as if the tears were an unstoppable force, reflecting the intensity of the psalmist’s feelings.

The cause of the psalmist's sorrow is made clear in the second part of the verse: "because they keep not thy law." Here, the psalmist laments the disobedience of others towards God’s law. The use of the word "keep" emphasizes the idea of adherence, preservation, and protection, highlighting the significance of God's law as something that should be diligently guarded and followed. The psalmist’s grief is rooted in the recognition of the negative consequences that result from the rejection of God’s law, both on a personal and communal level.

At its core, Psalm 119:136 speaks to the broader theme of the righteous person’s response to the unrighteousness of the world. The psalmist’s tears are a visceral manifestation of their profound love and reverence for God’s law, and a heartfelt response to the disregard and rejection of it by others. This verse reflects a deep sense of empathy and concern for the spiritual well-being of those who choose to turn away from God’s word.

The context of Psalm 119 is crucial to understanding the significance of verse 136. The entire psalm is a celebration of God’s Word, expressed through various poetic devices such as acrostic structure, with each section corresponding to a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The psalmist repeatedly extols the virtues of God's law, expressing a deep love and longing for its precepts. The psalmist’s commitment to obedience and devotion to God's commandments is evident throughout this chapter, making the disobedience of others all the more distressing to them.

Moreover, Psalm 119:136 also reflects the larger biblical theme of the sorrow of a righteous person in response to sin and the brokenness of the world. Prophets such as Jeremiah and Ezekiel also express similar lamentations over the disobedience and unfaithfulness of God’s people. These expressions of grief highlight the deep concern for the spiritual well-being of others and the longing for God's will to be fulfilled on earth.

Symbolically, the tears described in Psalm 119:136 can be seen as a representation of the psalmist’s deep emotional investment in the spiritual condition of others. It also serves as a visual manifestation of the psalmist's deep love for God’s law and their sorrow over its rejection. Furthermore, the imagery of tears flowing like rivers underscores the overwhelming nature of the psalmist’s grief, emphasizing the magnitude of their pain and distress.

In conclusion, Psalm 119:136 (KJV) captures the profound emotional response of the psalmist to the disobedience of others towards God's law. It conveys a deep sense of empathy and grief, reflecting the psalmist’s earnest desire for others to honor and obey God's commandments. This verse stands as a powerful testament to the psalmist’s reverence for God’s law and their sincere concern for the spiritual well-being of those who choose to turn away from it.