What does Psalms 19:9 mean?
"The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether." - Psalms 19:9

The verse Psalms 19:9 in the King James Version of the Bible reads: "The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." This verse comes from the Book of Psalms, which is a collection of sacred hymns and poems that express praise, worship, and a range of human emotions. This particular verse is found in the 19th chapter of Psalms, which is known for its focus on the glory of God as revealed in nature.
The verse begins by stating "The fear of the Lord is clean." In this context, the "fear of the Lord" does not refer to being afraid of God, but rather to having a deep reverence and awe for Him. This phrase is a common theme throughout the Old Testament, emphasizing the idea of recognizing God's authority and holiness. The word "clean" in this context refers to purity and righteousness. It suggests that the fear or reverence of the Lord is not tainted by human imperfections, but it is a pure and untainted respect for God's character and authority.
The verse continues by stating that this fear of the Lord is "enduring forever." This emphasizes the eternal nature of God's authority and the enduring impact of recognizing and honoring His supremacy. It also highlights the timeless relevance of fear and reverence for God in the lives of believers.
The second part of the verse declares, "The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." This statement affirms the trustworthiness of God's judgments and His righteousness. It implies that His decisions and decrees are inherently just and true, with no hint of partiality or error. This assertion also serves to strengthen the preceding statement about the fear of the Lord, as it reinforces the basis for revering God—His unwavering righteousness and truth.
In the context of the entire 19th chapter of Psalms, this verse holds a central place in a meditation on the magnificence of God as displayed in creation. The chapter begins by describing how the heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shows His handiwork. It goes on to illustrate how the natural world reveals knowledge and wisdom about God, and how His laws are perfect, refreshing the soul. Therefore, the fear of the Lord mentioned in verse 9 is informed by the understanding of God's greatness and majesty as evidenced in the world around us.
One of the key themes being expressed in this verse is the idea of divine authority and the rightful response of reverence and respect from humanity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing the sovereignty and holiness of God, and how it should shape our attitudes and actions. The verse also conveys the unchanging and reliable nature of God's judgments, which brings comfort and assurance to believers.
Symbolically, the concept of the fear of the Lord being "clean" can be seen as a call to purity and moral integrity in the lives of believers. It emphasizes the need for a genuine and untainted reverence for God, unblemished by hypocrisy or insincerity. The enduring nature of this fear of the Lord signifies its timeless significance and relevance in the life of every believer, regardless of changing circumstances or cultural contexts.
Overall, Psalms 19:9 in the King James Version offers a profound reflection on the fear of the Lord and the unassailable righteousness of His judgments. It invites believers to contemplate the grandeur of God as revealed in His creation and to respond with a humble and unwavering reverence for His divine authority. In doing so, it underscores the enduring and foundational nature of the fear of the Lord in the life of every believer.
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Psalms 19:9 - "The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether."
"The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether." - Psalms 19:9
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Psalms 107:9
Psalms 94:19 - "In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul."
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"There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard." - Psalms 19:3
"Arise, O LORD; let not man prevail: let the heathen be judged in thy sight." - Psalms 9:19
Psalms 19:6 - "His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof."
Psalms 59:9 - "Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defence."
"Mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars:" - Psalms 148:9
"To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine." - Psalms 33:19
"He shall go to the generation of his fathers; they shall never see light." - Psalms 49:19
"Until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him." - Psalms 105:19
Psalms 9:5 - "Thou hast rebuked the heathen, thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name for ever and ever."
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Psalms 107:9
"Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses." - Psalms 107:19
Psalms 9:9 - "The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble."
Psalms 107:9
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"If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;" - Psalms 139:9
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Psalms 19:3 - "There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard."
"Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge." - Psalms 19:2
"The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all." - Psalms 103:19
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Psalms 136:19 - "Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever:"