It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.

PSALMS 118:9KJV
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Psalms 118:9 (KJV)

What does Psalms 118:9 mean?

Psalms 118:9 says that it is wiser and safer to rely on the LORD than to depend on powerful human leaders. The verse points out that trusting God is better than putting your hope in those with authority or influence.

The psalm is likely spoken by an individual or group reflecting on God’s faithfulness during times of trouble. In the historical context, “princes” refers to rulers or officials who might seem able to help, but the verse insists that even the highest human power cannot compare to trusting the LORD. The statement comes in a passage focused on God’s steadfast love and deliverance.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 118:9

  • The word for “trust” is חָסָה (chasah), which often means to seek refuge or shelter, not just to believe something. This highlights a sense of turning to God for protection and safety.
  • The word for “confidence” is בָּטַח (batach), which means to rely on or feel secure with. The verse contrasts the security people might feel with human leaders against the deeper security found in God.
  • The term “princes” is נָדִיב (nadiv), referring to noblemen or those with high status. The verse deliberately singles out even the most powerful people to show that no human authority matches God’s reliability.

Why Psalms 118:9 matters

  • This verse clears up the common idea that those in power are always the best source of help, reminding readers that even leaders have limits.
  • It emphasizes the theme of the psalm: God’s faithfulness is greater than any human ability, no matter how influential the person.
  • In the context of Psalms 118, this verse connects to the surrounding verses that celebrate God’s deliverance and steadfast love, showing that real security comes from Him alone.

Where else these words appear

“princes” Hebrew H5081 · used in 25 verses

  • Exodus 35:5 Take ye from among you an offering unto the LORD: whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the LORD; gold, and silver, and brass,
  • Job 34:18 Is it fit to say to a king, Thou art wicked? and to princes, Ye are ungodly?
  • Proverbs 17:7 Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.

“trust” Hebrew H2620 · used in 36 verses

  • Deuteronomy 32:37 And he shall say, Where are their gods, their rock in whom they trusted,
  • Psalms 18:2 The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
  • Psalms 71:1 In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion.

“confidence” Hebrew H982 · used in 117 verses

  • Deuteronomy 28:52 And he shall besiege thee in all thy gates, until thy high and fenced walls come down, wherein thou trustedst, throughout all thy land: and he shall besiege thee in all thy gates throughout all thy land, which the LORD thy God hath given thee.
  • Psalms 41:9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.
  • Isaiah 30:12 Wherefore thus saith the Holy One of Israel, Because ye despise this word, and trust in oppression and perverseness, and stay thereon: