Psalms 89:6

KJV

For who in the heaven can be compared unto the LORD? [who] among the sons of the mighty can be likened unto the LORD?

KJV (with Strong's)

For who in the heaven {H7834} can be compared {H6186}{H8799)} unto the LORD {H3068}? who among the sons {H1121} of the mighty {H410} can be likened {H1819}{H8799)} unto the LORD {H3068}?

Complete Jewish Bible

For who in the skies can be compared with ADONAI? Which of these gods can rival ADONAI,

Berean Standard Bible

For who in the skies can compare with the LORD? Who among the heavenly beings is like the LORD?

American Standard Version

For who in the skies can be compared unto Jehovah? Who among the sons of the mighty is like unto Jehovah,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 89:6 is a profound rhetorical question that unequivocally asserts the unparalleled supremacy and unique majesty of the LORD (Yahweh). It declares that no created being, whether celestial or earthly, can possibly measure up to His divine nature, power, or authority. This verse serves as a foundational affirmation of God's absolute incomparability within Psalm 89, a composition that celebrates God's steadfast covenant faithfulness and omnipotence even as it grapples with profound human suffering and questioning.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 89 is a royal psalm, attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite, which begins as a hymn of praise (vv. 1-18) celebrating God's covenant loyalty (חֶסֶד, *hesed*) and faithfulness, particularly in relation to His covenant with King David ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). Verses 5-18 form a doxological section, exalting God's greatness, power, and righteousness within the heavenly assembly. Verse 6 specifically functions as a rhetorical climax within this praise section, highlighting God's transcendence over all created beings and setting the stage for the psalm's dramatic shift to a lament (vv. 38-51), where the psalmist questions God's apparent abandonment of the Davidic covenant. By first establishing God's absolute incomparability, the psalmist underscores the depth of his later bewilderment and plea.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East (ANE) was a polytheistic world where various nations worshipped numerous gods and goddesses, often associated with natural phenomena or national power. Many ANE mythologies also included concepts of a "divine council" or "assembly of the gods." In this context, Psalm 89:6 offers a radical monotheistic declaration, emphatically distinguishing Yahweh, the God of Israel, from all other supposed deities or powerful celestial beings. It asserts His unique status, not merely as the chief among many gods, but as utterly incomparable and alone in His divine essence. This polemic against polytheistic notions was crucial for Israel's identity and understanding of God's exclusive claim to worship.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 89 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it establishes **God's Incomparability**, asserting that the LORD is utterly unique and stands alone in His being; there is no one like Him in all of creation, visible or invisible. This theme is foundational to biblical monotheism and is echoed throughout scripture, such as when God asks, "[To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One](/isaiah/40-25 "Isaiah 40:25 - God's Incomparable Nature")" (Isaiah 40:25). Secondly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty**, as the rhetorical questions imply God's absolute and unchallenged rule over all things. If no one can compare to Him, then He is supreme over all heavenly hosts and earthly powers, highlighting His "[kingdom ruleth over all](/psalms/103-19 "Psalms 103:19 - God's Sovereign Rule")" (Psalms 103:19). Lastly, it portrays **Transcendent Majesty**, painting a picture of God's awe-inspiring glory and power, which far surpasses the comprehension or might of any created being, including angels or mighty human rulers.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yahweh'_):** In the King James Version, "LORD" (all caps) consistently translates the Hebrew tetragrammaton YHWH (יהוה), the personal, covenant name of God. This name signifies God's self-existence ("I AM WHO I AM" from [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - I Am Who I Am")), His eternal nature, and His active presence in covenant relationship with His people. The use of Yahweh here emphasizes that it is *this* specific, personal God of Israel who is incomparable, not merely a generic deity.
* **sons of the mighty (Hebrew, _bĕnê ʾēlîm'_):** This phrase literally translates to "sons of gods" or "sons of God." In this context, it refers to celestial beings, often understood as members of the divine council or heavenly host (e.g., angels). The question challenges whether any of these powerful, supernatural entities—who might be considered "mighty" in their own right—can be likened to Yahweh, emphatically concluding that they cannot. This distinguishes Yahweh from any created spiritual power.
* **compared/likened (Hebrew, _ʿāraḵ/dāmāh'_):** The two verbs used, *ʿāraḵ* ("to arrange, set in order, compare") and *dāmāh* ("to be like, resemble, compare"), create a synonymous parallelism that intensifies the rhetorical question. *ʿāraḵ* implies setting something alongside another for evaluation, while *dāmāh* focuses on similarity or resemblance. Together, they powerfully assert that no one can be placed in the same category as God, nor does anyone possess His attributes or essence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For who in the heaven can be compared unto the LORD?":** This opening clause directs the challenge to the celestial realm, specifically "in the heaven" (בַשַּׁחַק, *bashachaḳ*), which can denote the clouds, sky, or the highest heavens where God's throne is. It questions whether any being within this exalted domain—be they angels, cherubim, seraphim, or other heavenly hosts—possesses the attributes, power, or authority to stand alongside or be deemed equal to Yahweh. The implied answer is a resounding "no."
* **"[who] among the sons of the mighty can be likened unto the LORD?":** This second clause reinforces and specifies the first, using a different phrase for powerful beings. "Sons of the mighty" (בְּנֵי אֵלִים, *bĕnê ʾēlîm*) further clarifies that the question refers to divine or semi-divine beings, often understood as members of the heavenly assembly. The synonymous parallelism deepens the assertion: not only can no one be *compared* to the LORD, but no one can even *resemble* Him in His unique essence and majesty. This double rhetorical question leaves no room for doubt regarding God's absolute uniqueness.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Psalms 89:6 is the **Rhetorical Question**. This device is used not to elicit an answer, but to make a forceful assertion. By posing the question "who in the heaven can be compared...?" and "[who] among the sons of the mighty can be likened...?", the psalmist implies that the answer is self-evidently "no one." This powerfully emphasizes God's unparalleled supremacy and uniqueness. Additionally, the verse utilizes **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the second line reiterates the thought of the first line using different but related words. "Who in the heaven can be compared unto the LORD?" is echoed by "[who] among the sons of the mighty can be likened unto the LORD?" This repetition serves to amplify the central message of God's incomparability and reinforce its undeniable truth. The verse also employs **Exaltation** or **Hyperbole** to magnify God's attributes beyond any possible comparison, creating a sense of awe and wonder at His transcendent majesty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 89:6 is a cornerstone declaration of God's absolute incomparability, a fundamental tenet of biblical theology. It asserts that Yahweh is utterly unique, distinct from all creation, and possesses attributes that no other being can share. This theological truth has profound implications: it underpins monotheism, demanding exclusive worship and devotion to the one true God. It also provides a basis for trust and security, knowing that the One who governs the universe is supreme in power, wisdom, and steadfast love, beyond any rival. This verse sets God apart not only from pagan deities but also from any created spiritual being, establishing His transcendent sovereignty as the Creator and Sustainer of all.

* [Deuteronomy 3:24](/deuteronomy/3-24 "Deuteronomy 3:24 - God's Unparalleled Power")
* [1 Samuel 2:2](/1_samuel/2-2 "1 Samuel 2:2 - No One Is Holy Like the LORD")
* [Isaiah 40:25](/isaiah/40-25 "Isaiah 40:25 - God's Incomparable Nature")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 89:6 invites believers to cultivate a profound and abiding sense of awe, reverence, and humility before the incomparable God. In a world often filled with competing ideologies, charismatic leaders, powerful institutions, or even personal idols, this verse serves as a potent reminder that our God stands alone, infinitely superior to all. It calls us to examine where our ultimate trust and allegiance lie, challenging us to recognize and reject anything that attempts to usurp God's rightful place of supreme authority in our lives. Knowing that the One who holds the cosmos in His hands is our covenant-keeping God provides immense comfort and security, empowering us to face life's challenges with confidence, knowing that His power is unmatched and His faithfulness unwavering. Our worship, our prayers, and our daily lives should reflect this deep understanding of His unique and supreme position, fostering a spirit of trust and adoration that flows from His unparalleled majesty.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's incomparability shape your personal worship and reverence for Him?**
* **In what ways might we, consciously or unconsciously, elevate other "mighty ones" (e.g., human achievements, worldly power, personal desires) to a position that rivals God's supremacy in our lives?**
* **How does the truth of God's unparalleled nature provide comfort or strength to you in times of uncertainty or suffering?**
* **What practical steps can you take to more fully acknowledge and live in light of God's unique and supreme position in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What does "sons of the mighty" (or "sons of God") refer to in this context?**

Answer: In Psalms 89:6, "sons of the mighty" (Hebrew: *bĕnê ʾēlîm*) most likely refers to celestial beings or members of the heavenly host, often understood as angels or other powerful spiritual entities that constitute God's divine council. It does not refer to human rulers or earthly potentates in this specific context, but rather to those powerful beings who exist in the heavenly realm. The rhetorical question challenges whether any of these exalted, non-human beings can be compared to the LORD, emphatically concluding that they cannot. This distinction underscores God's unique transcendence above all created beings, both human and angelic.

**Why is this verse phrased as a rhetorical question rather than a direct statement?**

Answer: The use of a rhetorical question is a powerful literary device employed to emphasize an undeniable truth, rather than to solicit an answer. By asking "For who in the heaven can be compared unto the LORD?", the psalmist implies that the answer is self-evident: absolutely no one. This rhetorical strategy serves to heighten the impact of the declaration, drawing the listener or reader into the affirmation of God's unparalleled supremacy and making the statement more forceful and memorable than a simple declarative sentence. It engages the mind, leading to an inevitable conclusion about God's unique majesty.

**How does Psalms 89:6 relate to the concept of monotheism?**

Answer: Psalms 89:6 is a strong affirmation of monotheism, the belief in one God. In a world where polytheism was prevalent, this verse unequivocally declares that Yahweh, the God of Israel, is utterly unique and has no equal among any other "gods" or powerful beings, whether in heaven or on earth. It asserts His exclusive deity and supreme authority. This foundational truth distinguishes the worship of Yahweh from the worship of any other entity, demanding exclusive devotion and underscoring that there is no other true God to whom one can compare Him. This aligns with other monotheistic declarations in scripture, such as "[Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema")" (Deuteronomy 6:4) and "[I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me](/isaiah/45-5 "Isaiah 45:5 - God's Uniqueness")" (Isaiah 45:5).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Psalms 89:6 speaks of the incomparable nature of the LORD (Yahweh), the New Testament reveals that this divine incomparability is perfectly embodied and expressed in Jesus Christ. He is the "[image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")" (Colossians 1:15), through whom "[all things were created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - Christ as Creator")" (Colossians 1:16). The very "sons of the mighty" to whom no one can be compared in Psalms 89:6 are themselves created by and subject to Christ. He is the unique Son, the "[radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory")" (Hebrews 1:3), who perfectly reveals the Father's incomparable nature. Indeed, "[God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-10 - Jesus' Exaltation")" (Philippians 2:9-10). Thus, the rhetorical question of Psalms 89:6 finds its ultimate answer and fulfillment in the person of Jesus, who shares in the Father's unique and absolute supremacy, demonstrating that truly, "[all power is given unto me in heaven and in earth](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")" (Matthew 28:18).

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

Psalms 86:8

¶ Among the gods [there is] none like unto thee, O Lord; neither [are there any works] like unto thy works.

Psalms 71:19

Thy righteousness also, O God, [is] very high, who hast done great things: O God, who [is] like unto thee!

Exodus 15:11

Who [is] like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who [is] like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful [in] praises, doing wonders?

Psalms 29:1

¶ A Psalm of David. Give unto the LORD, O ye mighty, give unto the LORD glory and strength.

Jeremiah 10:6

Forasmuch as [there is] none like unto thee, O LORD; thou [art] great, and thy name [is] great in might.

Psalms 113:5

Who [is] like unto the LORD our God, who dwelleth on high,

Psalms 73:25

Whom have I in heaven [but thee]? and [there is] none upon earth [that] I desire beside thee.