Psalms 118:6

The LORD [is] on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

The LORD {H3068} is on my side; I will not fear {H3372}: what can {H6213} man {H120} do {H6213} unto me?

With ADONAI on my side, I fear nothing -what can human beings do to me?

The LORD is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

Jehovah is on my side; I will not fear: What can man do unto me?

Commentary

Psalms 118:6 (KJV)

The LORD [is] on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

Commentary

This verse is a powerful declaration of faith and confidence in God's protection. It is part of Psalm 118, which is a psalm of thanksgiving, likely sung after a time of great trial and deliverance. It is also the last of the Hallel psalms (Psalms 113-118), traditionally sung during major Jewish festivals like Passover.

Key Themes: The core message is the unwavering trust in God's presence and active support ("The LORD is on my side"). This trust directly leads to the abolition of fear ("I will not fear"). The rhetorical question, "what can man do unto me?", emphasizes the psalmist's conviction that human opposition or threats are ultimately powerless when God is one's protector.

Linguistic Insights: The name "LORD" here is YHWH, the covenant name of God, signifying His personal involvement with His people. The phrase "on my side" is a simple but strong declaration of God being "for me" or "with me." The question "what can man do unto me?" highlights the psalmist's perspective that human power is insignificant compared to God's.

Cross-references: This verse finds echoes in the New Testament, particularly in assurances of God's protective presence for believers.

  • Romans 8:31 - "What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?"
  • Hebrews 13:6 - "So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (This verse directly quotes or alludes to Psalm 118:6 and Psalm 56:4)

Practical Application: This verse serves as a timeless reminder for believers to anchor their confidence in God, not in circumstances or human strength. When facing opposition, criticism, or potential harm from others, remembering that the Almighty God is "on our side" can dispel fear and provide courage.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Hebrews 13:6 (49 votes)

    So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

  • Romans 8:31 (38 votes)

    ¶ What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?

  • Psalms 56:4 (35 votes)

    In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.

  • Psalms 56:11 (27 votes)

    In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.

  • Micah 7:8 (26 votes)

    Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD [shall be] a light unto me.

  • Micah 7:10 (26 votes)

    Then [she that is] mine enemy shall see [it], and shame shall cover her which said unto me, Where is the LORD thy God? mine eyes shall behold her: now shall she be trodden down as the mire of the streets.

  • Psalms 56:9 (23 votes)

    When I cry [unto thee], then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God [is] for me.