Psalms 118:14 (KJV)

What does Psalms 118:14 mean?

Psalms 118:14 says that the LORD is the source of strength, joy, and rescue for the speaker. The verse expresses deep trust and gratitude, recognizing God as the one who gives power, inspires praise, and brings deliverance from trouble.

The speaker is likely an individual or the nation of Israel, celebrating after being saved from a difficult situation, possibly a military threat or personal danger. This verse is part of a larger psalm of thanksgiving, where the writer publicly declares that God alone is responsible for their survival and victory.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 118:14

• LORD (יָהּ, yah): This is a shortened, intimate form of God's name, often used in songs and poetry to emphasize closeness and praise.
• strength (עֹז, oz): This word means strong power or might. The verse credits God as the one who gives the ability to endure or overcome.
• song (זִמְרָה, zimrah): This means a song of praise or celebration. The verse highlights that God not only gives strength but also inspires joyful worship.
• salvation (יְשׁוּעָה, yeshuah): This word means rescue or deliverance. The verse points to God as the one who saves from danger or distress, not just in a spiritual sense but also in real-life situations.

Why Psalms 118:14 matters

• This verse clarifies that the writer’s confidence and joy are rooted in God’s actions, not personal ability or luck.
• The use of the word "song" shows that gratitude and praise are natural responses to experiencing God’s help, tying worship directly to real-life events.
• Psalms 118:14 echoes themes found elsewhere in the Bible, connecting personal or national rescue to public praise, and reminding readers that God’s help is both practical and worthy of celebration.