Psalms 68:17

The chariots of God [are] twenty thousand, [even] thousands of angels: the Lord [is] among them, [as in] Sinai, in the holy [place].

The chariots {H7393} of God {H430} are twenty thousand {H7239}, even thousands {H505} of angels {H8136}: the Lord {H136} is among them, as in Sinai {H5514}, in the holy {H6944} place.

God's chariots are myriads, repeated thousands; Adonai is among them as in Sinai, in holiness.

The chariots of God are tens of thousands— thousands of thousands are they; the Lord is in His sanctuary as He was at Sinai.

The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands upon thousands: The Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the sanctuary.

Commentary

Psalm 68:17 presents a powerful image of God's overwhelming might and majestic presence, drawing upon historical events to underscore His sovereignty. This verse is part of a grand triumphal psalm that celebrates God's victories over His enemies and His glorious procession to His dwelling place in Zion.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse vividly recalls the dramatic scene at Mount Sinai, where God descended in fire and smoke to deliver the Law to Israel (see Exodus 19:18). The imagery of "chariots of God" and "thousands of angels" evokes the divine escort and immense power that accompanied God's manifestation. In ancient Near Eastern warfare, chariots represented the pinnacle of military might and speed. Applying this imagery to God underscores His supreme power and His role as a divine warrior leading His heavenly host.

Key Themes

  • God's Omnipotence and Majesty: The phrase "chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels" emphasizes the immeasurable strength and vastness of God's heavenly army. It portrays Him as an incomparable, invincible sovereign.
  • Divine Presence and Leadership: "The Lord is among them" highlights God's active, personal involvement. He is not a distant deity but one who leads His forces and is intimately present with His people, just as He was at Sinai. This echoes the promise of His abiding presence, a theme found throughout Scripture (e.g., Matthew 28:20 for the New Testament context).
  • Continuity of God's Faithfulness: The explicit reference to "Sinai, in the holy place" serves as a powerful reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His consistent demonstration of power from the Exodus onwards. The same God who established His law and presence there is still active and mighty.
  • Angelic Ministry: This verse affirms the existence and vast number of angels who serve as God's mighty host, executing His will and accompanying His divine manifestations. They are part of His celestial retinue.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "twenty thousand, even thousands of angels" (רִבֹּתַיִם אַלְפֵי שִׁנְאָן - ribbotayim alfei shin'an) is rich in meaning. Ribbotayim literally means "two myriads" or "two tens of thousands," while alfei shin'an is often interpreted as "thousands of repetition" or "thousands of angels." The KJV's translation captures the sense of an overwhelmingly vast, innumerable host, emphasizing God's limitless resources and the multitude of His divine attendants. The term "chariots" (רֶכֶב - rechev) here refers to the vehicles of war, signifying speed, power, and overwhelming force.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalm 68:17 offers profound comfort and reassurance. It reminds us that:

  • God is Sovereign and Powerful: No earthly power or spiritual foe can stand against the God who commands an army of "twenty thousand, even thousands of angels." This truth should inspire awe and trust in His ultimate control over all circumstances.
  • God is Present with His People: The same God who dramatically manifested His presence at Sinai is still "among them"—He is with His church, His people, and individual believers. We can find strength in His abiding presence, knowing we are not alone in our struggles.
  • Our Hope is Secure: The triumphant imagery points to God's ultimate victory. Just as He led Israel victoriously, He will lead His people to final triumph, providing a steadfast hope for the future and reminding us of the ultimate promise of no more tears in the new creation.
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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

  • Deuteronomy 33:2

    And he said, The LORD came from Sinai, and rose up from Seir unto them; he shined forth from mount Paran, and he came with ten thousands of saints: from his right hand [went] a fiery law for them.

  • Daniel 7:10

    A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.

  • Revelation 5:11

    And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

  • Matthew 26:53

    Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

  • Habakkuk 3:8

    Was the LORD displeased against the rivers? [was] thine anger against the rivers? [was] thy wrath against the sea, that thou didst ride upon thine horses [and] thy chariots of salvation?

  • Exodus 19:22

    And let the priests also, which come near to the LORD, sanctify themselves, lest the LORD break forth upon them.

  • Exodus 19:23

    And Moses said unto the LORD, The people cannot come up to mount Sinai: for thou chargedst us, saying, Set bounds about the mount, and sanctify it.
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