In this strophe (letter yod, verses 73-80) the psalmist prays for Yahweh’s love and mercy and confesses that Yahweh is just and right in all he does. He also prays that he may perfectly obey God’s laws and that his enemies may be defeated. The Good News Translation heading may have to be recast slightly for translation in some languages; for example, “The Law of the LORD is fair” or “What the LORD teaches is just.”

In verse 73 the psalmist confesses his absolute dependence on Yahweh, who created him: Thy hands have made and fashioned me. The second verb, “to make firm, establish,” may be understood to mean fashioned (Revised Standard Version, New Jerusalem Bible, New American Bible; New English Bible “Thy hands molded me and made me what I am”). But it may be understood to mean “to keep safe, preserve”; so Good News Translation “you keep me safe”; Bible en français courant “keep me standing up”; New Jerusalem Bible “held me firm.” Probably the first meaning better fits the context here (see similar language in Job 10.8). For verse 73b see similar thought in verse 34a. Where Revised Standard Version and Good News Translation have understanding, Biblia Dios Habla Hoy has “intelligence,” and Bible en français courant “discernment.” In some languages give me understanding is rendered “put thinking into my heart” or “open up my innermost.”

Those who, like the psalmist, obey Yahweh’s commands will share the psalmist’s joy when they see how Yahweh has blessed him (verse 74a). For who fear thee see verse 63a. In verse 74b thy word may mean the Law as such, or else in a more restricted sense it may refer to Yahweh’s promise (see the same language in verse 43b).

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Reyburn, William D. A Handbook on the Book of Psalms. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1991. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .