If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us:

PSALMS 124:2KJV
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Psalms 124:2 (KJV)

What does Psalms 124:2 mean?

Psalms 124:2 expresses that if the LORD had not been on the side of the people of Israel, they would have been overwhelmed when others rose up against them. The verse highlights the vital role of God’s support in times of danger or opposition.

In this psalm, David is speaking on behalf of Israel, reflecting on past situations where enemies threatened them. The verse sets up a “what if” scenario, inviting listeners to consider how vulnerable they would have been without God’s help. The focus is on remembering and acknowledging that their survival and victories were not due to their own strength, but because the LORD was with them.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 124:2

  • LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a covenant relationship. The verse stresses that it was specifically Yahweh, not just any god or force, who was on Israel’s side.
  • men (אָדָם, adam): This word means “human beings” or “people” in general, not just male individuals. The threat was from other humans, highlighting the real, tangible dangers Israel faced.
  • up (קוּם, qum): This verb means “to rise” or “to stand up.” It suggests active opposition or aggression, not just passive dislike or distance.

Why Psalms 124:2 matters

  • The verse clarifies that Israel’s safety was not accidental or due to their own power, but directly because of the LORD’s involvement.
  • By using a “what if” scenario, the psalm encourages the community to reflect on their dependence on God, fostering humility and gratitude.
  • This verse sets the tone for the rest of the psalm, which continues to describe the dangers faced and the deliverance provided, helping readers see the bigger picture of God’s protection throughout Israel’s history.

Where else these words appear

“If” Hebrew H3884 · used in 14 verses

  • Genesis 31:42 Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had been with me, surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction and the labour of my hands, and rebuked thee yesternight.
  • 1 Samuel 25:34 For in very deed, as the LORD God of Israel liveth, which hath kept me back from hurting thee, except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me, surely there had not been left unto Nabal by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall.
  • Psalms 94:17 Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence.