For verse 123a see similar language in verse 82a; for thy salvation see verse 81a. In verse 123b the Hebrew is simply “for the word (or, promise) of your righteousness.” Here “righteousness” is parallel to salvation in line a and means “deliverance, rescue” (New Jerusalem Bible “victory”); and “word” here could be “message,” but more likely, as often, it means “promise.” Revised Standard Version, however, translates the phrase for the fulfilment of thy righteous promise (similarly New English Bible). Biblia Dios Habla Hoy is “waiting for you to free me, according to your promise”; Bible en français courant “and the salvation that you have promised.” Thus understood and interpreted, there is no reference in this verse to the Law. Watching for thy salvation may have to be recast to say “watching for you to come and save me.” Good News Translation‘s “for the deliverance you promised” may have to be recast as “and to save me as you said you would do.”

In verse 124 the psalmist appeals to Yahweh’s steadfast love. In line a Good News Translation has not represented the often-used phrase “your servant.” It is better to say “Treat me, your servant….” Verse 124b is the same as verses 12b, 26b, 64b, 68b.

Verse 125 is similar in thought to verse 34; only with the LORD’s help and guidance can the psalmist know Yahweh’s teachings, that is, understand them and put them into practice.

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 .