Psalms 118:16

The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.

The right hand {H3225} of the LORD {H3068} is exalted {H7426}: the right hand {H3225} of the LORD {H3068} doeth {H6213} valiantly {H2428}.

ADONAI's right hand is raised in triumph! ADONAI's right hand struck powerfully!"

The right hand of the LORD is exalted! The right hand of the LORD performs with valor!”

The right hand of Jehovah is exalted: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly.

Psalm 118:16 declares the mighty power and effective action of God. It is a verse brimming with confidence in the divine ability to act decisively and victoriously.

Context

Psalm 118 is a psalm of thanksgiving, likely sung during a procession, perhaps related to a national victory or a festival like the Feast of Tabernacles. The psalm begins with a call to thank the Lord for His enduring mercy and recounts a time of distress and deliverance. Verses 15-16 specifically highlight the joy and triumph found in the dwelling of the righteous because of the powerful acts of God.

Key Themes

  • Divine Power and Strength: The phrase "The right hand of the LORD is exalted" emphasizes God's supreme power and authority, lifted high above all other forces.
  • Effective Action: "Doeth valiantly" signifies that God's power is not passive but actively accomplishes great things, achieving victory and bringing about His purposes.
  • Victory and Deliverance: The context implies this power is exercised on behalf of God's people, resulting in deliverance from enemies or difficult circumstances.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "right hand" (Hebrew: yamin) is a powerful metaphor throughout scripture, consistently symbolizing strength, authority, favor, and action. To say God's right hand is "exalted" (rum) means it is lifted high, demonstrating its supremacy. "Doeth valiantly" (Hebrew: asah chayil) means to act with strength, might, or to achieve success and victory, often in a military or powerful sense. It's the active demonstration of inherent power.

Reflection

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is not distant or inactive. His power is not only supreme but is actively engaged in the world and in the lives of believers. When facing challenges or opposition, we can find assurance in the truth that the right hand of the LORD is exalted and actively working. It is the source of our strength and the guarantee of ultimate victory for those who trust in Him, much like how His powerful hand brought salvation in the past (see Psalm 44:3).

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Exodus 15:6

    Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.

  • Acts 2:32

    This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.

  • Acts 2:36

    Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
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