Psalms 5:11

KJV

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

But let all those that put their trust {H2620} in thee rejoice {H8055}: let them ever {H5769} shout for joy {H7442}, because thou defendest {H5526} them: let them also that love {H157} thy name {H8034} be joyful {H5970} in thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

But let all who take refuge in you rejoice, let them forever shout for joy! Shelter them; and they will be glad, those who love your name.

Berean Standard Bible

But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them ever shout for joy. May You shelter them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You.

American Standard Version

But let all those that take refuge in thee rejoice, Let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: Let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 5:11 serves as a vibrant declaration of the profound joy and unwavering security experienced by those who place their trust in God, standing in stark contrast to the preceding verses that detail the judgment awaiting the wicked. This verse powerfully underscores the blessed state of the righteous, proclaiming that God's faithful, who seek refuge in Him and cherish His revealed character, are not only actively defended by Him but are also empowered to express exuberant, perpetual joy, rooted deeply in His steadfast protection and abiding presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 5 is an earnest morning prayer of David, masterfully transitioning from a lament of distress to an unwavering expression of confidence in God's perfect justice and protective care. The psalm commences with David's fervent plea for divine attention and intervention, establishing a tone of profound dependence on God's hearing and answering his supplication, as seen in his opening words, "Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my meditation" [Psalms 5:1-3](/psalms/5-1-3 "Psalms 5:1-3 - David's Morning Prayer and Plea"). Following this, David articulates a stark theological contrast between God's holy and righteous character, which abhors wickedness, and the abhorrent nature of the ungodly, who practice deceit and violence, emphasizing that "thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness" [Psalms 5:4-6](/psalms/5-4-6 "Psalms 5:4-6 - God's Hatred of Evil"). David then expresses his own intention to approach God's sanctuary with reverence, trusting in God's abundant mercy and seeking His righteous guidance amidst his adversaries, praying, "Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies" [Psalms 5:7-8](/psalms/5-7-8 "Psalms 5:7-8 - David's Reverence and Prayer for Guidance"). The psalm culminates in a fervent imprecatory prayer for God to judge his enemies according to their wickedness [Psalms 5:9-10](/psalms/5-9-10 "Psalms 5:9-10 - Prayer for Justice Against Enemies"), which then sets the stage for the triumphant declaration of joy and defense for the righteous in verse 11, followed by a final affirmation of God's blessing upon them in verse 12. Therefore, verse 11 serves as a climactic and hopeful declaration, shifting the focus from the threat of the wicked to the assured blessing of divine defense and the resulting joy for God's faithful.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** As a Davidic psalm, Psalm 5 likely originates from a period in David's life characterized by significant opposition, whether from political enemies, personal adversaries, or perhaps even internal strife, necessitating his constant reliance on God for protection and vindication. The practice of a "morning prayer" was a deeply ingrained spiritual discipline in ancient Israel, signifying a daily commitment to seek God's presence and guidance at the very outset of the day, acknowledging His sovereignty over all circumstances and committing the day's challenges into His hands. The cultural understanding of God as a "refuge" or "fortress" was fundamental, drawing upon vivid imagery of physical strongholds and fortified cities that offered tangible security against external threats and invaders. Furthermore, the profound emphasis on God's "name" (Hebrew: *shem*) in this context is paramount; in the ancient Near East, a person's name encapsulated their entire character, reputation, authority, and very essence. To "love God's name" was not merely to appreciate a label, but to deeply love His revealed character, His attributes, His covenant faithfulness, and His very being, recognizing Him as the ultimate source of all good, the sole true defender, and the foundation of all hope.

* **Key Themes:** Psalms 5:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes prevalent within the Psalter and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully articulates the theme of **Divine Protection and Defense**, affirming God's unwavering commitment to shield, guard, and preserve those who belong to Him. This speaks to God's active and personal role as a guardian against adversity and evil, a promise echoed throughout Scripture, such as in the assurance that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" [Psalms 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalms 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength") and the wisdom found in [Proverbs 18:10](/proverbs/18-10 "Proverbs 18:10 - The Name of the Lord is a Strong Tower"). Secondly, the verse highlights **Joy as a Consequence of Trust**, repeatedly emphasizing "rejoice," "shout for joy," and "be joyful." This joy is not a superficial or fleeting emotion but a deep-seated, exuberant, and abiding response to God's faithfulness and protective care, a gladness that transcends difficult circumstances because it is firmly rooted in the certainty of God's presence and power. This theme resonates with the declaration in [Nehemiah 8:10](/nehemiah/8-10 "Nehemiah 8:10 - The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength") that "the joy of the LORD is your strength." Thirdly, the verse underscores **Trust and Faith as Prerequisites** for experiencing this divine defense and resulting joy, explicitly stating it is for "all those that put their trust in thee." This trust (Hebrew: *chasah*) implies an active reliance and profound dependence on God alone, a concept central to the wisdom literature found in [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart"). Finally, the phrase "love thy name" introduces the theme of **Loving God's Character**, signifying a deep appreciation, reverence, and affection for who God is in His totality, which naturally leads to finding ultimate joy and satisfaction in Him alone.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Trust (Hebrew, _châçâh'_):** This word (H2620) carries the rich nuance of seeking refuge, fleeing for protection, or taking shelter under a covering. It vividly evokes the image of a bird seeking shelter under its mother's wings or a person finding safety in a strong fortress. It implies a complete and active reliance, a casting of oneself upon God for security and deliverance, rather than a passive belief. This trust is not merely intellectual assent but a profound commitment of one's entire being to God's care, recognizing Him as the ultimate and only reliable source of safety.
* **Defendest (Hebrew, _çâkak'_):** Meaning "to entwine as a screen," "to fence in," "to cover over," or "to protect" (H5526). This verb paints a vivid picture of God actively shielding His people. It suggests a personal, intimate act of guardianship, where God Himself becomes the protective covering, like a canopy or a shield. It implies not just passive observation but an active, intervening defense against all forms of harm, both seen and unseen, providing a secure perimeter around those who trust in Him.
* **Name (Hebrew, _shêm'_):** In biblical thought, a "name" (H8034) is far more than a mere label; it represents the totality of a person's character, reputation, authority, and essence. To "love God's name" means to love all that God is—His holiness, justice, mercy, faithfulness, power, and wisdom. It signifies a deep appreciation for His revealed attributes and His covenant promises. This love for His name is intrinsically linked to finding joy in Him, as His character is the ultimate, unchanging source of security, delight, and eternal satisfaction.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice:"** This opening clause immediately establishes a profound contrast with the preceding verses, which detail the judgment and ruin awaiting the wicked. The phrase "let all those" is a jussive, expressing a strong desire or divine command, indicating that joy is not merely an option but an expected and appropriate response for those who actively seek refuge in God. This joy is presented as a direct, inevitable consequence of their trust, highlighting the inseparable link between faith and spiritual gladness that flows from divine protection.
* **"let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them:"** The jussive continues, intensifying the expression of joy from mere "rejoice" to "shout for joy," suggesting an exuberant, demonstrative, and often public expression of gladness. The word "ever" (Hebrew: _ʻôwlâm'_ H5769) emphasizes the perpetual and enduring nature of this joy, indicating it is not fleeting but eternal, transcending temporary circumstances. The foundational reason for this unending, exuberant joy is explicitly stated: "because thou defendest them." God's active, personal, and constant protection (Hebrew: _çâkak'_ H5526) is the unwavering cause of their profound and vocal delight.
* **"let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee."** This final clause expands the scope of those who experience this deep joy to include not only those who trust God but also those who "love thy name." As discussed, "loving God's name" (Hebrew: _ʼâhab'_ H157, _shêm'_ H8034) signifies a deep affection for His character, His revealed nature, and His very being. This love for who God is naturally culminates in finding ultimate satisfaction and joy *in Him* (the "in thee" is crucial), rather than in circumstances, external blessings, or worldly achievements. It underscores that true, lasting joy is found in God Himself, not merely in what He does for us, but in who He inherently is.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 5:11 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its powerful and encouraging message. **Contrast** is foundational, implicitly drawing a sharp distinction between the judgment and despair of the wicked (described in verses 9-10) and the blessed, joyful state of the righteous (in verse 11). The repeated use of the **Jussive Mood** ("let all those... rejoice," "let them ever shout," "let them also... be joyful") functions as both a heartfelt prayerful request and a confident, prophetic declaration, emphasizing the divinely ordained and assured nature of this joy for the faithful. **Repetition** of the core concept of "joy" (expressed through "rejoice," "shout for joy," and "be joyful") intensifies the emotional and spiritual emphasis, underscoring its centrality to the experience of those who trust in God. Furthermore, the phrase "thou defendest them" employs a subtle **Metaphor** or **Personification**, portraying God as an active, personal protector, akin to a shield, a covering, or a fortress, thereby reinforcing His intimate and vigilant involvement in the lives of those who seek refuge in Him. The phrase "love thy name" is a potent form of **Metonymy**, where "name" stands in for the entirety of God's character, attributes, and revealed being, inviting a deeper, more holistic appreciation and affection for the divine.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 5:11 profoundly articulates the theological truth that genuine, enduring joy is not circumstantial or fleeting but is deeply rooted in an active, trusting relationship with God and a heartfelt love for His revealed character. This joy is presented as a direct and inevitable consequence of God's active defense and unwavering protection, demonstrating His faithfulness and covenant loyalty to those who seek refuge in Him. It highlights the biblical principle that God's character (His "name") is the ultimate and unchanging source of security, meaning, and delight, thereby sharply distinguishing the blessed state of the righteous from the despair and ultimate ruin of the wicked. This verse invites believers to cultivate a radical dependence on God, knowing that His protective presence guarantees a joy that transcends earthly trials and tribulations, serving as a powerful testimony to His goodness, sovereignty, and unfailing love.

* [Nehemiah 8:10](/nehemiah/8-10 "Nehemiah 8:10 - The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength")
* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart")
* [Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord Always")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world often characterized by pervasive uncertainty, fear, and hostility, Psalms 5:11 offers profound encouragement and a timeless blueprint for spiritual resilience and flourishing. It reminds us that our joy is not, and should not be, contingent on perfect circumstances or the complete absence of adversaries, but rather on the unchanging character of God and His unwavering promise to actively defend us. When we actively choose to put our trust in God, even amidst the most formidable trials, and cultivate a deep, abiding love for who He is in His totality, we unlock a wellspring of joy that the world cannot give, nor can it ever take away. This verse challenges us to move beyond passive belief to an active, demonstrable trust, allowing our lives to become a vibrant testament to God's protective power and faithfulness. Our exuberant joy, born from His divine defense, becomes a powerful and compelling witness to His sovereignty and goodness, inviting others to find their ultimate refuge and delight in Him alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific areas of your life do you find most challenging to "put your trust" in God, and how might this verse encourage you to deepen that trust, even in the face of fear?**
* **How does the concept of God "defending" you, acting as your personal shield and protector, impact your ability to "shout for joy" and express gladness, even when circumstances are difficult or threatening?**
* **What does it practically mean for you to "love God's name" in your daily life, and how does that deep affection for His character contribute to your profound and lasting joy in Him?**
* **In what tangible ways can your personal expression of exuberant joy in God serve as a powerful and attractive witness to those around you who may be experiencing despair or uncertainty?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean to "put their trust in thee" in a practical sense today?**

Answer: To "put their trust in thee" (Hebrew: *chasah*) means to actively seek refuge in God, to rely on Him completely for safety, provision, and guidance, rather than on human strength, worldly resources, or personal wisdom. Practically, this involves a conscious act of surrendering control, acknowledging God's sovereignty over all situations, and believing that He is faithful to His promises. It means turning to Him in prayer during times of fear or uncertainty, obeying His commands even when it's difficult, and resting in His protective care. For example, when facing financial hardship, trusting God means praying for His provision, seeking wise counsel, and being diligent, rather than succumbing to anxiety or engaging in dishonest practices. It's a daily, conscious choice to lean on God's character as revealed in [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart"), rather than on your own understanding.

**Why is "shout for joy" emphasized, rather than just quiet contentment?**

Answer: The emphasis on "shout for joy" (Hebrew: *ranan*) signifies an exuberant, demonstrative, and often public expression of gladness. It's not merely quiet contentment but an overflowing, vocal, and sometimes physical manifestation of delight. This emphasis highlights the profound and overwhelming nature of the joy that comes from God's defense. It suggests a joy that cannot be contained, a celebratory response to God's powerful intervention and protection. In ancient Israel, shouting for joy was often associated with victory, triumph, or the manifest presence of God (e.g., [1 Samuel 4:5](/1_samuel/4-5 "1 Samuel 4:5 - The Ark Brought to Battle") when the Ark of the Covenant arrived). It serves as a testimony to God's faithfulness and a bold declaration of His power, even in the face of adversity, proclaiming His goodness to the world.

**What does it mean to "love thy name" and how does it relate to joy?**

Answer: To "love thy name" means to cherish, revere, and delight in God's entire revealed character, His attributes, and His reputation. In biblical thought, a "name" represents the essence of a person. So, loving God's name means loving His holiness, justice, mercy, faithfulness, power, wisdom, and all that He is. It's a deep appreciation for His being and His covenant promises. This love is intrinsically linked to joy because when we truly love and appreciate God for who He is, our satisfaction and delight become rooted in Him, rather than in fleeting circumstances or possessions. Our joy is then found "in thee," meaning in God Himself, because His character is the ultimate source of security, meaning, and eternal gladness, as seen in [Psalms 16:11](/psalms/16-11 "Psalms 16:11 - Fullness of Joy in God's Presence"), where David declares that in God's presence is "fullness of joy."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 5:11 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the perfect object of our trust and the very embodiment of God's defense. While the psalmist anticipated divine protection from earthly foes, Christ perfectly fulfills this promise by offering not just temporal defense but eternal salvation and security from humanity's greatest enemies: sin, death, and the devil. Those who "put their trust in thee" are now those who place their faith in Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), and in Him, they find ultimate refuge and an indestructible hope that transcends all earthly perils. The "shout for joy" that the psalmist longed for is realized in the New Covenant through the Holy Spirit, who fills believers with an [inexpressible and glorious joy](/1_peter/1-8 "1 Peter 1:8 - Joy in Christ Unseen") because of Christ's decisive victory over death and His promise of eternal life. Furthermore, to "love thy name" is now to love the name of Jesus, the [Name above every name](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - Jesus Exalted"), through whom all blessings flow and in whom God's character is fully revealed. He is our ultimate defender, our secure refuge, and the very source of our everlasting joy, having secured our defense through His atoning sacrifice on the cross and His triumphant resurrection, ensuring that all who are in Him are [kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation](/1_peter/1-5 "1 Peter 1:5 - Kept by God's Power") and will ultimately rejoice forever in His glorious presence.

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

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

Revelation 19:1

¶ And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God:

Revelation 19:7

Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.

Psalms 68:3

But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice.

Psalms 40:16

Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.

1 Corinthians 2:9

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

James 1:12

Blessed [is] the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.