Psalms 83:18

KJV

That [men] may know that thou, whose name alone [is] JEHOVAH, [art] the most high over all the earth.

KJV (with Strong's)

That men may know {H3045}{H8799)} that thou, whose name {H8034} alone is JEHOVAH {H3068}, art the most high {H5945} over all the earth {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Let them know that you alone, whose name is ADONAI, are the Most High over all the earth.

Berean Standard Bible

May they know that You alone, whose name is the LORD, are Most High over all the earth.

American Standard Version

That they may know that thou alone, whose name is Jehovah, Art the Most High over all the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse stands as the powerful culmination of a communal lament, articulating the profound purpose behind God's anticipated intervention against the nations arrayed against Israel: to unequivocally reveal His unique, self-existent identity and His absolute, universal sovereignty. It declares that the sacred name "JEHOVAH" (YHWH) belongs exclusively to the one who reigns supreme over all creation, ensuring that all humanity will ultimately come to an experiential knowledge and acknowledgment of His unparalleled position as the Most High God, distinct from every earthly power and false deity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 83 functions as a fervent communal lament, a desperate plea for divine intervention against a formidable confederacy of nations threatening to annihilate Israel. The psalm commences with an urgent cry for God to break His apparent silence and act decisively against the enemies (verses 1-4). It then meticulously enumerates the conspiring nations, emphasizing their unified, malicious intent to utterly destroy Israel's very existence and erase its memory from the earth (verses 5-8). The psalmist strategically appeals to God's past acts of righteous judgment against Israel's oppressors, such as Midian and Sisera (verses 9-12), imploring Him to inflict similar devastating defeat upon the current adversaries (verses 13-17). The psalm climaxes in verse 18, which marks a significant theological shift. The focus moves beyond Israel's immediate vindication to the universal recognition of God's unique name and supreme sovereignty as the ultimate, overarching outcome of His righteous judgment. This concluding verse transforms the lament into a powerful, prophetic declaration of theological truth, underscoring that God's actions are not merely for the preservation of His people but, more profoundly, for the revelation of His glory to all the earth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the precise historical setting for Psalms 83 remains a subject of scholarly debate, it most plausibly reflects a period when ancient Israel faced a significant military threat from a formidable coalition of surrounding peoples. The psalm specifically names Edom, Ishmaelites, Moab, Hagrites, Gebal, Ammon, Amalek, Philistia, Tyre, and Assyria (verses 6-8), a confederacy indicative of the geopolitical realities of the ancient Near East, where smaller nations frequently allied against common enemies or for territorial expansion. Culturally, this psalm is set against the pervasive polytheistic backdrop of the ancient world, where each nation typically worshipped its own pantheon of gods. In this environment, the psalmist's emphatic declaration that "JEHOVAH" alone is "the most high over all the earth" is a radical, uncompromising assertion of monotheism. It directly challenges the prevailing belief systems, affirming the unique, universal dominion of Israel's God over all other supposed deities and earthly rulers. The psalmist's plea for judgment is thus not solely for physical deliverance but for the profound vindication of God's name among nations who neither knew nor acknowledged Him.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 83:18 serves as a powerful theological anchor, contributing significantly to several foundational themes woven throughout the Psalter and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphatically asserts the **uniqueness and supremacy of God's name**, specifically "JEHOVAH" (YHWH), distinguishing Him as the one true God among all other claimants. This aligns perfectly with the biblical emphasis on God's covenant name as a revelation of His self-existent, eternal, and faithful character, as profoundly declared in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - I AM WHO I AM"). Secondly, the verse underscores God's **absolute sovereignty and universal dominion**, declaring Him "the most high over all the earth." This theme resonates deeply throughout Scripture, affirming God's ultimate control over all creation and human affairs, as powerfully highlighted in passages like [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Finally, the explicit purpose clause "That men may know" highlights the critical theme of **divine revelation and the universal acknowledgment of God**. The psalmist's ultimate desire is that God's decisive intervention will lead not merely to Israel's deliverance but to a profound, experiential recognition by all nations of who God truly is, echoing the broader biblical call for all the earth to worship and acknowledge Him, as beautifully expressed in [Psalm 96:1](/psalms/96-1 "Psalm 96:1 - Sing to the Lord a New Song").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ_):** This primitive root signifies more than mere intellectual apprehension; it encompasses a deep, experiential, and relational knowledge. It implies to ascertain by seeing, to recognize, to be acquainted with, and even to acknowledge or understand. In this context, for "men to know" God means to come to a profound, transformative recognition of His identity and authority, leading to reverence and submission, rather than just a factual awareness.
* **JEHOVAH (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh_):** This is the King James Version's rendering of the Tetragrammaton (YHWH), the unique, personal, covenant name of God revealed to Moses. Deriving from the verb "to be," it signifies God's self-existence, eternal nature, and active presence as the one who "is," "was," and "is to come." The phrase "whose name alone is JEHOVAH" emphasizes His unparalleled uniqueness, exclusivity, and distinction from all other gods or idols, highlighting His inherent faithfulness and power to fulfill His promises.
* **most high (Hebrew, _ʻelyôwn_):** This title, derived from a root meaning "to ascend" or "to be high," denotes God's supreme elevation, transcendence, and ultimate authority. It emphasizes His position as superior to all other beings, powers, and even the highest heavens. When combined with "over all the earth," it powerfully underscores His universal dominion, indicating that His rule extends without limit over every nation, every ruler, and every corner of creation. It is a title that speaks to His absolute sovereignty and unmatched preeminence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That [men] may know":** This opening clause articulates the ultimate, overarching purpose behind the psalmist's fervent prayer for divine judgment. The desired outcome extends beyond the immediate defeat of enemies or the mere vindication of Israel; it is the universal recognition and acknowledgment of God. The term "men" here encompasses all humanity, including the very hostile nations, who are intended to come to an experiential, transformative knowledge of the one true God. This knowledge is not a passive intellectual assent but an active, profound understanding that compels reverence and submission.
* **"that thou, whose name alone [is] JEHOVAH":** This is a profound and exclusive declaration of God's unique identity. It asserts that the God of Israel, identified by His personal, covenant name YHWH, is the singular and only true God. The emphatic phrase "whose name alone" underscores His exclusivity and singularity, setting Him apart from and above all false gods worshipped by the nations. It highlights that His divine essence, character, and supreme authority are intrinsically bound to this unique, revealed name, which signifies His self-existent and eternally faithful nature.
* **"[art] the most high":** This phrase further defines the inherent nature and supreme status of the God whose name is JEHOVAH. "Most High" (Hebrew: _ʿElyōn_) is a majestic title that speaks to God's supreme elevation, His transcendence above all creation, and His ultimate, unparalleled authority. It signifies His preeminence over every created being, every earthly ruler, and all other powers, both visible and invisible. He is not merely high, but the absolute highest, without peer, rival, or equal.
* **"over all the earth":** This concluding phrase precisely specifies the boundless scope of God's dominion. His authority as the "Most High" is not confined to a particular region, a specific people, or a limited sphere of influence (unlike the territorial gods prevalent in the ancient world). Rather, His sovereignty extends universally and comprehensively. He is the sovereign ruler of the entire globe, of all nations, of all humanity, and of every aspect of creation. This universal claim powerfully reinforces the monotheistic truth that there is no other God who possesses such comprehensive, absolute, and unchallenged power.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 83:18 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological message. It functions as the **Climax** of the entire psalm, strategically shifting the focus from the immediate crisis and the plea for judgment to the ultimate, overarching theological purpose of God's intervention. The psalmist elevates the aspiration beyond mere vengeance, aiming for God's glory to be universally recognized. The verse prominently features a **Purpose Clause** ("That men may know"), which clearly articulates the intended outcome of God's actions, highlighting the didactic and revelatory nature inherent in divine judgment. Furthermore, the emphatic phrasing, particularly "whose name alone is JEHOVAH" and "the most high over all the earth," demonstrates powerful **Emphasis** through direct assertion. This strong, unequivocal declaration underscores God's unique and unparalleled sovereignty, serving to sharply contrast Him with the false gods and limited earthly powers that the hostile nations rely upon, thereby reinforcing the psalm's uncompromising monotheistic message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 83:18 stands as a pivotal declaration of God's unique identity and absolute sovereignty, echoing a foundational truth woven throughout the entire biblical narrative. It affirms that the God of Israel, identified by His personal name YHWH, is not merely one deity among many, nor a localized tribal god, but the singular, supreme ruler "over all the earth." This verse speaks to God's inherent desire for all humanity to come to a saving knowledge of Him, revealing His character and power through His mighty acts of judgment and deliverance. It underscores that His judgments are ultimately designed to manifest His glory and ensure His universal recognition, challenging any notion of polytheism, henotheism, or limited divine authority. The psalm's fervent plea for God to act is therefore not just for the vindication of His covenant people, but, more profoundly, for the vindication of His very name and universal dominion among all nations.

* [Isaiah 45:5](/isaiah/45-5 "Isaiah 45:5 - I am the Lord, and there is no other")
* [Psalm 97:9](/psalms/97-9 "Psalm 97:9 - For You, O Lord, are Most High over all the earth")
* [Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "Zechariah 14:9 - The Lord will be King over all the earth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 83:18 offers profound comfort and a compelling challenge for believers navigating a world that often seems chaotic, hostile, or indifferent to faith. In an age where God's existence is questioned, His authority is dismissed, and His sacred name is frequently trivialized, this verse serves as an unshakeable anchor for our souls. It powerfully reminds us that the God we worship is not a distant, passive deity, but "JEHOVAH," the self-existent, covenant-keeping God who actively reigns as "the most high over all the earth." This profound truth should instill in us an unwavering confidence in His ultimate control, even when circumstances appear dire, when evil seems to triumph, or when the forces arrayed against righteousness seem overwhelming. Our appropriate response should be one of deep trust, fervent worship, and bold witness. We are called to live in a way that testifies to His unique name and supreme authority, making Him known to a world desperately in need of recognizing its true sovereign. Our prayers, like the psalmist's, should ultimately aim for God's glory and the universal acknowledgment of His unparalleled reign, trusting that He will indeed make His name known.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does knowing God's name as "JEHOVAH" (YHWH) and His title as "Most High" impact your understanding of His character and power in your daily life and in the face of global challenges?**
* **In what practical ways can you, as a believer, contribute to the "men may know" purpose of God in your sphere of influence, whether in your family, community, or workplace?**
* **When faced with personal anxieties or societal turmoil, how does the truth of God's absolute sovereignty "over all the earth" provide you with comfort, hope, and a renewed sense of peace?**
* **What idols, earthly powers, or personal ambitions might you be unconsciously elevating above the "Most High" God in your own life, and how can you re-align your priorities with His supreme authority?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the name "JEHOVAH" in this verse?**

Answer: The name "JEHOVAH" in the KJV text of Psalms 83:18 represents the Hebrew Tetragrammaton, YHWH, which is God's unique, personal, and covenant name. It signifies His self-existence ("I AM WHO I AM" from [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - The Divine Name")), His eternal nature, and His unwavering faithfulness to His promises. The phrase "whose name alone is JEHOVAH" profoundly emphasizes that this God is utterly unique, distinct from and superior to all other gods or deities worshipped in the ancient world. It is a declaration of strict monotheism, asserting that there is no other God like Him, and His identity, character, and authority are intrinsically tied to this uniquely revealed name.

**What does "the most high over all the earth" mean in practical terms?**

Answer: "The most high over all the earth" means that God possesses absolute, supreme authority and dominion over every aspect of creation, every nation, every ruler, and every individual on the planet. In practical terms, it signifies that no earthly power, no human government, no natural disaster, and no spiritual force can ultimately thwart His purposes or operate outside of His sovereign oversight. It implies His ultimate control over history, His inherent right to execute justice, and His universal claim to receive worship from all people. This profound truth provides immense comfort and unwavering confidence to believers, knowing that their God is ultimately in control, even amidst chaos, adversity, and apparent setbacks, as beautifully affirmed in [Psalm 103:19](/psalms/103-19 "Psalm 103:19 - The Lord has established His throne in the heavens").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 83:18, with its climactic declaration of YHWH as the unique "Most High over all the earth," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While the psalm looks forward to a universal acknowledgment of God through His mighty judgments, the New Testament reveals that this saving knowledge comes most fully and clearly through the Son. Jesus Himself is the very embodiment and manifestation of YHWH, for He boldly claimed the divine "I AM" (Greek: _ego eimi_) in [John 8:58](/john/8-58 "John 8:58 - Before Abraham was, I AM"), directly echoing the divine name revealed to Moses. He is the "Most High" God made manifest, through whom all things were created and by whom all things are sustained ([Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ as Creator and Sustainer")). The purpose that "men may know" God is perfectly realized in Christ, for "no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him" ([Matthew 11:27](/matthew/11-27 "Matthew 11:27 - No one knows the Father except the Son")). Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, Jesus demonstrated God's unique power and absolute sovereignty, conquering sin and death, and establishing His eternal kingdom. Ultimately, the prophetic vision of the psalmist will be fully realized when "every knee shall bow... and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")), thus bringing to fruition the prayer that all may know the one whose name alone is JEHOVAH, the Most High over all the earth.

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

Exodus 6:3

And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by [the name of] God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them.

Psalms 59:13

Consume [them] in wrath, consume [them], that they [may] not [be]: and let them know that God ruleth in Jacob unto the ends of the earth. Selah.

Ezekiel 38:23

Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Psalms 97:9

For thou, LORD, [art] high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.

Jeremiah 16:21

Therefore, behold, I will this once cause them to know, I will cause them to know mine hand and my might; and they shall know that my name [is] The LORD.

2 Kings 19:19

Now therefore, O LORD our God, I beseech thee, save thou us out of his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou [art] the LORD God, [even] thou only.

Ezekiel 30:19

Thus will I execute judgments in Egypt: and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.