Psalms 118:10

KJV

All nations compassed me about: but in the name of the LORD will I destroy them.

KJV (with Strong's)

All nations {H1471} compassed me about {H5437}: but in the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068} will I destroy {H4135} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

The nations all surrounded me; in the name of ADONAI I cut them down.

Berean Standard Bible

All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the LORD I cut them off.

American Standard Version

All nations compassed me about: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 118:10 powerfully declares the psalmist's unwavering confidence in God's delivering power amidst overwhelming opposition. Though "all nations" encircled the psalmist, representing formidable and hostile forces, the declaration is not one of despair but of certain victory. The verse asserts that triumph over these adversaries will be achieved not through human might or strategic prowess, but decisively "in the name of the LORD," signifying reliance on God's inherent authority, character, and omnipotent presence to utterly defeat every foe. It stands as a profound testament to divine sovereignty and the assurance of victory for those who trust in the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 118 is the final psalm in the Hallel collection (Psalms 113-118), traditionally sung during major Jewish festivals, most notably Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles. It serves as a climactic song of thanksgiving, celebrating God's enduring mercy (*hesed*) and miraculous deliverance. The psalm begins with a universal call to praise God for His steadfast love, then transitions into a personal testimony of distress and subsequent divine rescue (vv. 5-7). Verse 10 builds upon the theme of trusting God over human strength, echoing the sentiment found throughout [Psalm 118:8-9](/psalms/118-8 "Psalm 118:8-9 - Trusting God Over Man"), where the psalmist declares, "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man." The surrounding verses continue to emphasize the psalmist's encirclement by enemies (v. 11), followed by a triumphant declaration of God's decisive victory (vv. 12-14), ultimately culminating in the celebration of the "stone the builders rejected" becoming the cornerstone (vv. 22-23), a verse famously applied to the Messiah. This psalm's placement within the Hallel underscores its communal and eschatological significance, looking forward to a future, ultimate deliverance.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "me" in this verse can be interpreted on multiple levels: the individual psalmist (possibly a king like David, or a representative figure), or more broadly, the nation of Israel. Throughout its history, Israel frequently found itself "compassed about" by hostile "nations" (*goyim*), including the Philistines, Arameans, Assyrians, Babylonians, and others, who sought to subjugate or destroy them. This constant threat fostered a deep reliance on divine intervention, as their very existence often depended on God's miraculous hand. Culturally, the phrase "in the name of the LORD" (*beshem YHWH*) was far more than a mere verbal invocation; it represented acting with the full authority, power, and character of God Himself. To invoke God's name was to declare His active presence and mandate in a given situation, especially in warfare or significant undertakings. It signified a profound declaration of dependence and an expectation of divine action, reflecting the covenant relationship between God and His people, where His name was synonymous with His very being and power.

* **Key Themes:**
* **Divine Deliverance from Overwhelming Odds:** The verse vividly portrays a situation of extreme peril, with the psalmist completely "compassed about" by "all nations." This imagery highlights the seemingly impossible odds and the utter helplessness of human strength against such a formidable array. Yet, the psalmist's confidence is not in military might or strategic cunning, but solely in the omnipotent power of God. This theme resonates throughout the psalm, emphasizing that true security and victory come only from the Lord, reinforcing the message found in [Psalm 118:6](/psalms/118-6 "Psalm 118:6 - The LORD Is On My Side"), "The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?"
* **The Power and Authority of God's Name:** The phrase "in the name of the LORD" is the theological core of the verse. It signifies acting by God's explicit authority, relying on His revealed character, His covenant faithfulness, and His active presence. It is not a magical incantation but a profound declaration of dependence on the Almighty, who alone possesses the power to grant victory. This concept is foundational in Israelite theology, akin to David's declaration to Goliath that he faced his enemy [in the name of the LORD of hosts](/1_samuel/17-45 "1 Samuel 17:45 - David's Trust in God's Name"). The name of the LORD encapsulates His very essence and all His attributes of power, holiness, and faithfulness.
* **Triumph Over Adversity:** Despite being encircled and seemingly trapped, the psalmist declares not merely survival, but a decisive and complete "destruction" of the enemies. This speaks to the certainty of God's victory when His people rely on Him. It is a testament to God's unwavering support and His capacity to turn seemingly inevitable defeat into glorious triumph, showcasing His power to [scatter those who delight in war](/psalms/68-30 "Psalm 68:30 - God Scatters Warring Nations"). This theme offers hope and assurance that even the most formidable opposition will ultimately yield to God's sovereign will and power.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Nations (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** This term (H1471) refers to the Gentile peoples, often used in the Old Testament to denote those outside of Israel's covenant relationship with God. In this context, *gôwy* carries a strong connotation of hostility and pagan opposition to God's chosen people. The use of "all nations" (כָּל־גּוֹיִם, *kol-goyim*) is likely a hyperbole, emphasizing the overwhelming and universal nature of the perceived threat, suggesting an enemy so vast that it feels like the entire world is against the psalmist. It signifies a collective, formidable, and often idolatrous opposition.
* **Compassed (Hebrew, _çâbab'_):** The verb *çâbab* (H5437) means "to revolve, surround, or border." It vividly paints a picture of being completely hemmed in, besieged, or encircled by adversaries, implying a situation of extreme vulnerability and no apparent escape route. This imagery intensifies the sense of peril and the seemingly insurmountable odds faced by the psalmist, evoking the feeling of being trapped and overwhelmed by a multitude of foes.
* **Destroy (Hebrew, _mûwl'_):** The verb *mûwl* (H4135) here is in the Hiphil stem, *amîlam* (אֲמִילַם), meaning "I will cut them off" or "I will destroy them." While the root can refer to circumcision (cutting off the foreskin), in this context, it signifies a decisive and complete severing or obliteration of the enemies. It conveys a thorough and final victory, not just a repelling of the attack, but an utter defeat that renders the adversaries powerless and ensures their complete cessation as a threat.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All nations compassed me about":** This clause establishes the dire circumstances faced by the psalmist. The phrase "all nations" (כָּל־גּוֹיִם) emphasizes the vastness and totality of the opposition, creating a sense of being completely overwhelmed and isolated. The verb "compassed" (סְבָבוּנִי, *sevavuni*) vividly portrays a hostile encirclement, suggesting a siege or a situation where escape seems impossible. This sets the stage for the dramatic contrast that follows, highlighting the magnitude of the deliverance that God will provide, underscoring the psalmist's human helplessness in the face of such a formidable array of enemies.
* **"but in the name of the LORD will I destroy them":** This is the pivotal declaration of faith and triumph. The conjunction "but" (כִּי, *ki*, often translated "for" or "surely") introduces a stark contrast to the preceding despair, signaling a dramatic shift from human vulnerability to divine power. The phrase "in the name of the LORD" (בְּשֵׁם יְהוָה, *beshem YHWH*) is the source of the psalmist's power and confidence. It signifies acting by the divine authority, character, and active presence of Yahweh (H3068), the covenant God of Israel, whose "name" (H8034) embodies His very being and all His attributes. The declaration "I will destroy them" (אֲמִילַם, *amîlam*) expresses absolute certainty of victory, a decisive and complete triumph over the encircling enemies, not through human strength but through God's omnipotence and mandate.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 118:10 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message with striking force. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "all nations," which exaggerates the number of enemies to emphasize the overwhelming nature of the threat, thereby magnifying the power and glory of God's deliverance. This creates a dramatic **Contrast** between the psalmist's apparent vulnerability and the absolute, limitless power available through God. The verse is structured as an **Antithetical Parallelism**, where the first clause describes the problem ("All nations compassed me about") and the second clause provides the solution and confident declaration ("but in the name of the LORD will I destroy them"). This highlights the stark opposition between human weakness and divine strength, emphasizing that God's intervention is the decisive factor. Furthermore, "the name of the LORD" functions as a powerful **Metonymy**, where the "name" stands in for the full character, authority, power, and active presence of God Himself. It is not merely a word but the embodiment of divine agency and covenant faithfulness. The imagery of being "compassed about" evokes a vivid sense of **Encirclement** or siege, a common motif in ancient warfare, which further underscores the magnitude of the divine intervention required for such a complete and certain victory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 118:10 is a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, the efficacy of God's name, and the certainty of victory for those who place their trust in Him. It teaches that human strength, even when facing seemingly insurmountable odds, is utterly insufficient, and true power resides solely in the Lord. The invocation "in the name of the LORD" is not a magical formula but a declaration of complete reliance on God's character and covenant faithfulness, acknowledging His inherent authority and active presence. This verse affirms that God actively intervenes on behalf of His people, turning what appears to be certain defeat into glorious triumph. It foreshadows the New Testament understanding of spiritual warfare, where believers are called to stand firm against unseen adversaries, not in their own might, but by the power of God. The psalmist's confidence serves as a timeless model for faith, reminding us that no enemy, no challenge, and no circumstance is too great for the God whose name embodies all power and authority.

* [Romans 8:31](/romans/8-31 "Romans 8:31 - God Is For Us")
* [Ephesians 6:10-12](/ephesians/6-10 "Ephesians 6:10-12 - Standing Firm in the Lord")
* [Exodus 14:14](/exodus/14-14 "Exodus 14:14 - The LORD Will Fight For You")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 118:10 offers profound encouragement and a powerful paradigm for believers navigating the complexities and challenges of contemporary life. When we feel "compassed about" by spiritual attacks, personal struggles, societal pressures, overwhelming anxieties, or even physical ailments, this verse redirects our gaze from the magnitude of the problem to the omnipotence of our God. It calls us to cultivate a radical dependence on Him, reminding us that our strength and ultimate victory come not from our own resources, intellect, or resilience, but from the Lord alone. To act "in the name of the LORD" means to live, pray, and engage in our battles with the conscious awareness that we are operating under His authority, empowered by His Spirit, and aligned with His divine purposes. This perspective transforms fear into faith, helplessness into active trust, and perceived defeat into the confident expectation of God's triumphant intervention. It compels us to step into the spiritual battles of our lives with divine assurance, knowing that the God who delivered the psalmist from "all nations" is the same God who is with us, ready to fight on our behalf, ensuring that His purposes will prevail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does embracing God's sovereignty transform your perspective when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges in your personal life or in the world around you?**
* **In what specific areas of your life are you called to act "in the name of the LORD," relying on His power rather than your own efforts or wisdom?**
* **How does understanding Psalms 118:10 equip you for spiritual warfare, and what practical steps can you take to stand firm in God's name against the schemes of the enemy?**
* **What "nations" (overwhelming adversaries or circumstances) are currently "compassing you about," and how can you apply the psalmist's declaration of faith to your situation, trusting God for decisive victory?**

### FAQ
**Does "destroy them" imply physical violence for believers today?**

Answer: While the original context of Psalms 118:10 refers to literal military conflict and the physical defeat of Israel's enemies, its application for New Testament believers is primarily spiritual. Christians are called to engage in spiritual warfare, not physical violence. The "nations" that "compass us about" today are often spiritual forces of evil, temptations, sin, and the destructive influences of the world system. Therefore, "destroying them in the name of the LORD" means overcoming these spiritual adversaries through faith, prayer, obedience to God's Word, and the power of the Holy Spirit. As [2 Corinthians 10:4](/2_corinthians/10-4 "2 Corinthians 10:4 - Spiritual Warfare") states, "For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds." Our victory is over sin and death, secured by Christ's triumph on the cross and resurrection.

**What does it mean to act "in the name of the LORD" in a practical sense?**

Answer: Acting "in the name of the LORD" means to operate under His authority, according to His will, and by His power. Practically, this involves several aspects:
1. **Reliance:** Recognizing that our own strength is insufficient and consciously depending on God's omnipotence for every endeavor.
2. **Obedience:** Ensuring our actions and intentions align with God's revealed character and commands in Scripture, seeking His guidance in all things.
3. **Prayer:** Invoking God's presence and power through fervent prayer, believing that He hears and acts in response to the faith of His people.
4. **Faith:** Trusting that God will fulfill His promises and accomplish His purposes through us, even when circumstances seem impossible or overwhelming.
5. **Representation:** Living in a way that accurately represents God to the world, knowing that our actions reflect on His name and bring Him glory.
It's not a magical phrase, but a declaration of our identity in Christ and our partnership with God in His redemptive work. As [Colossians 3:17](/colossians/3-17 "Colossians 3:17 - Doing All in the Name of Jesus") encourages, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 118:10 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the psalmist, whether an individual or the nation of Israel, faced literal "nations" that "compassed" them, Jesus faced the ultimate "nations" and powers of darkness: sin, death, and the devil. He was indeed "compassed about" by hostile forces—the religious leaders, the Roman authorities, and the spiritual principalities and powers that sought to thwart God's redemptive plan. Yet, it was "in the name of the LORD," the very essence of God's power and authority, that Jesus triumphed. His entire ministry, from casting out demons to healing the sick, was a demonstration of acting "in the name of the LORD." His death on the cross, though appearing as defeat, was the decisive act where He "disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). The resurrection, then, was the ultimate "destruction" of these spiritual enemies, demonstrating that Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), had conquered all that opposed God and humanity. Through His victory, He was given "the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth" ([Philippians 2:9-10](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-10 - The Exalted Name of Jesus")). Thus, the psalmist's declaration of triumph in God's name becomes a prophetic anticipation of Christ's definitive and eternal victory over all the forces that once "compassed" humanity, securing salvation and freedom for all who believe.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 88:17

They came round about me daily like water; they compassed me about together.

Revelation 20:8

And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom [is] as the sand of the sea.

Revelation 20:9

And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.

2 Samuel 8:1

¶ And after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them: and David took Methegammah out of the hand of the Philistines.

2 Samuel 8:18

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada [was over] both the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and David's sons were chief rulers.

Psalms 18:40

Thou hast also given me the necks of mine enemies; that I might destroy them that hate me.

2 Samuel 10:1

¶ And it came to pass after this, that the king of the children of Ammon died, and Hanun his son reigned in his stead.