Psalms 20:5

Translation
King James Version
We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions.
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KJV (with Strong's)
We will rejoice H7442 in thy salvation H3444, and in the name H8034 of our God H430 we will set up our banners H1713: the LORD H3068 fulfil H4390 all thy petitions H4862.
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Complete Jewish Bible
Then we will shout for joy at your victory and fly our flags in the name of our God. May ADONAI fulfill all your requests.
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Berean Standard Bible
May we shout for joy at your victory and raise a banner in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your petitions.
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American Standard Version
We will triumph in thy salvation, And in the name of our God we will set up our banners: Jehovah fulfil all thy petitions.
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World English Bible Messianic
We will triumph in your salvation. In the name of our God, we will set up our banners. May the LORD grant all your requests.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
That we may reioyce in thy saluation, and set vp the banner in the Name of our God, when the Lord shall performe all thy petitions.
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Young's Literal Translation
We sing of thy salvation, And in the name of our God set up a banner. Jehovah doth fulfil all thy requests.
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See also
Exodus 17:15Psalms 60:41 Samuel 1:17Isaiah 25:9Isaiah 12:1Isaiah 12:3Luke 1:47
In the KJVVerse 14,188 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Psalms 20:5 is a vibrant declaration of corporate faith and confident anticipation, voiced by the community of Israel on behalf of their king, likely David, as he prepares for a significant military engagement. It articulates a profound trust that true victory and cause for celebration stem solely from God's saving power, not human might, and expresses the people's unwavering commitment to publicly honor God for His deliverance and to believe in the fulfillment of their king's petitions.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Psalm 20 is a communal prayer offered for the king, strategically positioned within the first book of the Psalter, a collection often associated with Davidic authorship or themes. The psalm opens with the people's fervent petitions for God's favor upon their king in the day of trouble, specifically asking for divine help, protection, and remembrance of his offerings and sacrifices (verses 1-3). Verse 4 continues this plea, desiring God to grant the king's heart's desire and fulfill his counsel. Immediately following these earnest supplications, verse 5 marks a powerful and confident shift from petition to a bold proclamation of assured victory and a vow of worship. This declaration of faith sets the stage for the climactic affirmation in Psalms 20:7, which starkly contrasts reliance on human military power with unwavering trust in the name of the Lord. The psalm concludes with a final plea for salvation and divine answer (verse 9), framing the declaration of verse 5 as a confident interlude within a broader prayer for divine intervention and success.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: This psalm deeply reflects the socio-political and religious realities of ancient Israel, particularly during the monarchical period. In the ancient Near East, kings were often seen as divine representatives, and their success in battle was paramount for national survival and prosperity. However, in Israel, the king was uniquely understood as God's anointed, a servant under divine authority, whose power derived solely from Yahweh. Battles were not merely military engagements but spiritual conflicts, with outcomes determined by divine favor and covenant faithfulness. The practice of "setting up banners" (or standards/ensigns) was common in ancient warfare, serving to identify armies, rally troops, and signify victory or occupation. To raise these banners "in the name of our God" was a distinctly Israelite expression, transforming a common military practice into a profound theological statement of allegiance and dependence on Yahweh. The communal voice underscores the corporate nature of Israelite faith, where the well-being of the nation and its king were inextricably linked to their covenant relationship with God, highlighting a collective identity and shared destiny.
  • Key Themes: Psalms 20:5 encapsulates several core themes prevalent throughout the Psalter and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights Joy in God's Deliverance, emphasizing that true rejoicing is rooted in God's active salvation, not merely in the absence of trouble or the achievement of human goals. This anticipatory joy is an act of profound faith, celebrating victory before it is physically manifest, much like the confidence expressed in Philippians 4:4. Secondly, the verse underscores the theme of Attributing Victory to God Alone. By raising banners "in the name of our God," the people declare that any success is not due to their own strength, strategy, or the king's prowess, but solely to the power and authority of the Lord, echoing the sentiment found in Proverbs 21:31. This theme stands in stark contrast to the human tendency to trust in material resources or military might, as explicitly stated in Psalms 20:7. Finally, the concluding petition, "the LORD fulfil all thy petitions," speaks to the theme of Confidence in Answered Prayer, demonstrating a deep trust in God's responsiveness and faithfulness to His people's fervent prayers, a trust encouraged throughout scripture, for example in 1 John 5:14-15.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Rejoice (Hebrew, rânan', H7442): This primitive root literally means "to creak (or emit a stridulous sound)," but is primarily used figuratively to mean "to shout (usually for joy)." It conveys a loud, exultant expression of joy, triumph, and celebration, often in response to divine intervention or deliverance. In this context, it signifies a fervent, outward expression of delight and confidence in God's anticipated saving acts.
  • Salvation (Hebrew, yᵉshûwʻâh', H3444): Derived from the verb "to save" or "to deliver," this feminine passive participle encompasses a broad range of meanings including deliverance, aid, victory, prosperity, health, and welfare. It refers to God's comprehensive act of rescuing, preserving, and bringing well-being to His people, extending beyond mere physical rescue to spiritual and holistic flourishing. Here, it specifically denotes the divine victory God will grant.
  • Banners (Hebrew, dâgal', H1713): This primitive root means "to flaunt, i.e. raise a flag." Figuratively, it means "to be conspicuous." While the KJV translates it as "banners" (a noun), the Hebrew here is a verbal form of dâgal, signifying the act of setting up or raising a standard or flag. These were military ensigns used for identification, rallying troops, and signaling triumph. The act of raising them "in the name of our God" transforms a military custom into a profound theological declaration, making God's name conspicuous as the source of victory.

Verse Breakdown

  • "We will rejoice in thy salvation": This opening clause expresses a communal, anticipatory joy rooted in God's future deliverance. The "we" signifies the collective voice of the people of Israel, corporately declaring their confident expectation that God will grant victory. Their rejoicing is not in their own strength or the king's prowess, but exclusively in "thy salvation"—God's saving act. This is a profound declaration of faith, celebrating the victory even before it is physically realized, demonstrating a deep and unwavering trust in God's faithfulness.
  • "and in the name of our God we will set up [our] banners": This phrase describes the public, symbolic act of acknowledging God as the sole source of victory. "Setting up banners" signifies a public display of triumph and allegiance, a visible sign of a won battle. Doing so "in the name of our God" means that the victory is attributed solely to His authority, power, and character. It is a corporate vow to honor God publicly for any success, refusing to take credit for themselves or their king, and instead proclaiming His sovereignty over all outcomes and His identity as the true standard-bearer of Israel.
  • "the LORD fulfil all thy petitions": This concluding clause functions as both a collective prayer and a confident affirmation of the king's prayers. The people express their earnest desire and firm belief that Yahweh (the LORD, God's covenant name, H3068) will hear and grant the king's requests for divine assistance and success in battle. It underscores the deep trust in God's responsiveness to the fervent prayers of His anointed and His people, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention in human affairs and the efficacy of prayer offered in faith.

Literary Devices

Psalms 20:5 employs several powerful literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. Symbolism is prominently featured in the "banners," which transcend their military function to become potent symbols of divine victory, allegiance, and public proclamation. Raising them "in the name of our God" transforms a physical act into a spiritual declaration, signifying that God is the true standard-bearer and the ultimate source of all triumph. The verse also features a strong Communal Voice, indicated by the repeated use of "we," which emphasizes the corporate nature of faith and prayer in Israel. This collective declaration creates a powerful sense of unity and shared purpose in trusting God. Furthermore, the verse functions as a Proclamation or Declaration of Faith, moving beyond mere petition to an assertive statement of confidence in God's saving power and an anticipatory celebration of His future acts. This declarative tone instills hope, strengthens the resolve of the community, and serves as an example of faith-filled speech.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Psalms 20:5 stands as a powerful testament to the theological truth that ultimate victory and genuine joy are found not in human strength or strategic brilliance, but in the sovereign power and saving acts of God. It underscores the principle of divine dependency, reminding believers that while human effort and preparation are necessary, the decisive factor in any endeavor, especially spiritual warfare, is God's intervention. The verse also highlights the importance of public worship and acknowledgment of God's goodness, urging His people to attribute all success to Him. This corporate declaration of faith serves as a model for how communities of faith should approach challenges, marked by confident prayer and a commitment to glorify God for His anticipated and realized deliverance. It is a timeless reminder that our hope is rightly placed in the Lord alone, and our celebrations should always point back to His unfailing might and mercy.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Psalms 20:5 offers timeless principles for believers navigating the challenges of life. It calls us to cultivate a deep-seated joy rooted in God's ongoing salvation, recognizing that His deliverance is not limited to grand, historical events but extends to our daily struggles, temptations, and needs. This joy is steadfast because it emanates from His unchanging character and unwavering faithfulness, allowing us to rejoice even in the midst of trials, knowing His ultimate victory is assured. When we experience breakthroughs, successes, or simply the grace to endure, this verse compels us to "set up our banners" in His name. This means publicly acknowledging that the victory, the strength, and the blessing come from God alone. It's an invitation to live a life that openly testifies to His goodness and power, giving Him all the credit for our achievements and blessings, rather than relying on our own strength, wisdom, or resources. Furthermore, the verse fosters an attitude of confident expectation in prayer, encouraging us to bring our petitions before God with the assurance that He hears and will answer according to His perfect will, aligning our desires with His divine purposes and trusting in His sovereign timing.

Questions for Reflection

  • What does it mean for me to "rejoice in God's salvation" in my current circumstances, even before a desired outcome is realized?
  • How can I "set up my banners in the name of our God" in my daily life, publicly attributing my successes and blessings to Him rather than to my own efforts?
  • In what areas of my life do I need to pray with greater confidence, trusting that the Lord will fulfill my petitions according to His perfect will and for His glory?

FAQ

Who is the "we" in this verse, and why is their declaration significant?

Answer: The "we" in Psalms 20:5 refers to the community of Israel, the people, who are corporately praying for and declaring their confidence in their king, likely David, as he prepares for battle. Their declaration is significant because it highlights the corporate nature of faith in ancient Israel. The well-being of the nation was tied to the king's success, but that success was ultimately dependent on God's favor. The people's unified voice demonstrates their collective trust in God, their shared commitment to His covenant, and their solidarity with their leader. It shows that faith is not just an individual matter but a communal expression of dependence on God, echoing the corporate identity of God's people throughout scripture, such as in Exodus 19:5-6.

What is the significance of "setting up banners" in the name of God?

Answer: In ancient warfare, banners (or military standards/ensigns) were crucial for identifying armies, rallying troops, and signaling commands. After a victory, setting up banners in conquered territory or upon returning home was a public declaration of triumph and ownership. To "set up banners in the name of our God" transforms this military custom into a profound theological statement. It signifies that the victory is not attributed to human strength, strategy, or the king's prowess, but solely to the power, authority, and character of Yahweh. It is a public act of worship and acknowledgment, declaring that God is the true commander, the source of all power, and the one to whom all glory is due. This concept is beautifully encapsulated in Exodus 17:15, where Moses names an altar "Jehovah-nissi," meaning "The LORD is my banner," after a victory.

Does "the LORD fulfil all thy petitions" mean God will grant every prayer?

Answer: This phrase expresses the community's earnest desire and confident belief that God will hear and grant the king's specific petitions related to the upcoming battle. While it reflects a strong faith in God's responsiveness, it should be understood within the broader biblical context of prayer. God always answers prayers, but not always in the way or with the timing we expect. His answers are always consistent with His perfect will, His character, and His ultimate purposes for our good and His glory. This confidence is rooted in God's faithfulness to His covenant and His people, not in a guarantee that every human desire will be met. True fulfillment of petitions aligns with God's sovereign plan, as seen in Matthew 6:10 and Romans 8:28, which assure believers that God works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Psalms 20:5 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords. The "salvation" that the psalmist anticipates and rejoices in is perfectly embodied in Christ's redemptive work. He is the true "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29), offering not just victory in battle but eternal deliverance from sin, death, and the power of the enemy. Our rejoicing is now fixed on His finished work on the cross and His glorious resurrection, which secured our ultimate triumph over every spiritual foe. The act of "setting up banners in the name of our God" finds its supreme expression in the triumph of the cross, where Christ disarmed the powers and authorities, making a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by it (Colossians 2:15). The cross itself becomes our banner, the symbol of God's ultimate victory over evil, and in His name, we are "more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). Furthermore, the community's prayer for the king's petitions to be fulfilled is perfectly realized in Christ, who always did the Father's will (John 6:38) and whose eternal intercession for His people before the Father is eternally effective (Hebrews 7:25). In Him, all of God's promises are "Yes" and "Amen" (2 Corinthians 1:20), ensuring that God's ultimate redemptive purposes are fulfilled through His beloved Son, establishing His everlasting kingdom.

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Commentary on Psalms 20 verses 1–5

I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points

This prayer for David is entitled a psalm of David; nor was it any absurdity at all for him who was divinely inspired to draw up a directory, or form of prayer, to be used in the congregation for himself and those in authority under him; nay it is very proper for those who desire the prayers of their friends to tell them particularly what they would have to be asked of God for them. Note, Even great and good men, and those that know ever so well how to pray for themselves, must not despise, but earnestly desire, the prayers of others for them, even those that are their inferiors in all respects. Paul often begged of his friends to pray for him. Magistrates and those in power ought to esteem and encourage praying people, to reckon them their strength (Zac 12:5, Zac 12:10), and to do what they can for them, that they may have an interest in their prayers and may do nothing to forfeit it. Now observe here,

I. What it is that they are taught to ask of God for the king.

1.That God would answer his prayers: The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble (Psa 20:1), and the Lord fulfil all thy petitions, Psa 20:5. Note, (1.) Even the greatest of men may be much in trouble. It was often a day of trouble with David himself, of disappointment and distress, of treading down and of perplexity. Neither the crown on his head nor the grace in his heart would exempt him from the trouble. (2.) Even the greatest of men must be much in prayer. David, though a man of business, a man of war, was constant to his devotions; though he had prophets, and priests, and many good people among his subjects, to pray for him, he did not think that excused him from praying for himself. Let none expect benefit by the prayers of the church, or of their ministers or friends for them, who are capable of praying for themselves, and yet neglect it. The prayers of others for us must be desired, not to supersede, but to second, our own for ourselves. Happy the people that have praying princes, to whose prayers they may thus say, Amen.

2.That God would protect his person, and preserve his life, in the perils of war: "The name of the God of Jacob defend thee, and set thee out of the reach of thy enemies." (1.) "Let God by his providence keep thee safe, even the God who preserved Jacob in the days of his trouble." David had mighty men for his guards, but he commits himself, and his people commit him, to the care of the almighty God. (2.) "Let God by his grace keep thee easy from the fear of evil. - Pro 18:10, The name of the Lord is a strong tower, into which the righteous run by faith, and are safe; let David be enabled to shelter himself in that strong tower, as he has done many a time."

3.That God would enable him to go on in his undertakings for the public good - that, in the day of battle, he would send him help out of the sanctuary, and strength out of Zion, not from common providence, but from the ark of the covenant and the peculiar favour God bears to his chosen people Israel. That he would help him, in performance of the promises and in answer to the prayers made in the sanctuary. Mercies out of the sanctuary are the sweetest mercies, such as are the tokens of God's peculiar love, the blessing of God, even our own God. Strength out of Zion is spiritual strength, strength in the soul, in the inward man, and that is what we should most desire both for ourselves and others in services and sufferings.

4.That God would testify his gracious acceptance of the sacrifices he offered with his prayers, according to the law of that time, before he went out on a dangerous expedition: The Lord remember all thy offerings and accept thy burnt-sacrifices (Psa 20:3), or turn them to ashes; that is, "The Lord give thee the victory and success which thou didst by prayer with sacrifices ask of him, and thereby give as full proof of his acceptance of the sacrifice as ever he did by kindling it with fire from heaven." By this we may now know that God accepts our spiritual sacrifices, if by his Spirit he kindles in our souls a holy fire of pious and divine affection and with that makes our hearts burn within us.

5.That God would crown all his enterprises and noble designs for the public welfare with the desired success (Psa 20:4): The Lord grant thee according to thy own heart. This they might in faith pray for, because they knew David was a man after God's own heart, and would design nothing but what was pleasing to him. Those who make it their business to glorify God may expect that God will, in one way or other, gratify them: and those who walk in his counsel may promise themselves that he will fulfil theirs. Thou shalt devise a thing and it shall be established unto thee.

II. What confidence they had of an answer of peace to these petitions for themselves and their good king (Psa 20:5): "We will rejoice in thy salvation. We that are subjects will rejoice in the preservation and prosperity of our prince;" or, rather, "In thy salvation, O God! in thy power and promise to save, will we rejoice; that is it which we depend upon now, and which, in the issue, we shall have occasion greatly to rejoice in." Those that have their eye still upon the salvation of the Lord shall have their hearts filled with the joy of that salvation: In the name of our God will we set up our banners. 1. "We will wage war in his name; we will see that our cause be good and make his glory our end in every expedition; we will ask counsel at his mouth, and take him along with us; we will follow his direction, implore his aid and depend upon it, and refer the issue to him." David went against Goliath in the name of the Lord of hosts, Sa1 17:45. (2.) "We will celebrate our victories in his name. When we lift up our banners in triumph, and set up our trophies, it shall be in the name of our God; he shall have all the glory of our success, and no instrument shall have any part of the honour that is due to him."

In singing this we ought to offer up to God our hearty good wishes to the good government we are under and to the prosperity of it. But we may look further; these prayers for David are prophecies concerning Christ the Son of David, and in him they were abundantly answered; he undertook the work of our redemption, and made war upon the powers of darkness. In the day of trouble, when his soul was exceedingly sorrowful, the Lord heard him, heard him in that he feared (Heb 5:7), sent him help out of the sanctuary, sent an angel from heaven to strengthen him, took cognizance of his offering when he made his soul an offering for sin, and accepted his burnt-sacrifice, turned it to ashes, the fire that should have fastened upon the sinner fastening upon the sacrifice, with which God was well pleased. And he granted him according to his own heart, made him to see of the travail of his soul, to his satisfaction, prospered his good pleasure in his hand, fulfilled all his petitions for himself and us; for him the Father heareth always and his intercession is ever prevailing.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–5. Public domain.
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Evagrius PonticusAD 399
NOTES ON THE PSALMS
People rejoice in riches, or in glory or in nobility of birth, but the righteous in the salvation of God.
Augustine of HippoAD 430
Exposition on Psalm 20
"We will exult in Your salvation" [Psalm 20:5]. We will exult in that death will in no wise hurt You; for so You will also show that it cannot hurt us either. "And in the name of the Lord our God will we be magnified." And the confession of Your name shall not only not destroy us, but shall even magnify us.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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