Psalms 110:1 (KJV)

What does Psalms 110:1 mean?

Psalms 110:1 describes a conversation where the LORD (God) tells David’s “Lord” to sit at His right hand, promising that this “Lord’s” enemies will be made a footstool under his feet. The verse shows a figure given a place of highest honor and authority, with God promising victory over all opposition.

In this psalm, David is the writer, but he records words spoken by the LORD (the personal name for God, often written as Yahweh) to someone David calls “my Lord.” The setting is a royal court scene, where sitting at the right hand means sharing in God’s rule and power. The promise about enemies being made a footstool is a picture of complete triumph over those who oppose this honored figure.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 110:1

• LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the special, personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, used here to show that God Himself is speaking.
• Lord (אדֹנִי, adoni): This word means “my lord” or “my master,” and in this context, it refers to someone David honors, not to God Himself. The distinction between Yahweh and adoni is important for understanding who is being addressed.
• Sit (יָשַׁב, yashav): This word means “to sit” or “to dwell.” In ancient times, sitting at the right hand of a king meant sharing in his authority and honor.
• Footstool (הֲדֹם, hadom; רֶגֶל, regel): “Footstool” here is a picture of victory, where conquered enemies are placed under the feet of the victor, showing total dominance.

Why Psalms 110:1 matters

• Psalms 110:1 clarifies that two distinct figures are in view: the LORD (Yahweh) and David’s “Lord” (adoni), which has led to much discussion about the identity of this second “Lord.”
• The verse emphasizes the idea of divine authority being shared, showing that the honored figure is given a unique place beside God Himself.
• This verse is quoted and discussed many times in later Jewish and Christian writings, making it a key text for understanding ideas of kingship, messiah, and God’s promises.