Psalms 147:10 (KJV)

What does Psalms 147:10 mean?

Psalms 147:10 says that God does not find joy in displays of physical power, like the strength of a horse or the muscular legs of a man. Instead, God’s delight is not in outward might or human ability, but in something deeper and less visible.

This verse is part of a song of praise, where the psalmist (likely addressing the people of Israel) highlights what truly matters to God. In the ancient world, horses symbolized military power and strong legs meant a capable warrior, but the psalmist is reminding listeners that God’s values are different from human values. The focus is on God’s priorities, not on what people usually admire.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 147:10

• "delighteth" (חָפֵץ, chafetz): This word means to take pleasure in or desire. The verse uses it to stress that God’s enjoyment is not found in what humans often celebrate.
• "strength" (גְּבוּרָה, gevurah): This word refers to might or power, especially in a military sense. The verse points out that God is not impressed by such strength.
• "horse" (סוּס, sus): In ancient Israel, horses were symbols of war and national power, so mentioning them highlights the kind of strength people usually trust.
• "legs" (שׁוֹק, shoq): This refers to the strong legs of a man, often associated with a warrior’s speed or endurance. The verse uses it to represent human ability and physical prowess.

Why Psalms 147:10 matters

• Psalms 147:10 corrects the common assumption that God values the same things people do, like military might or physical strength.
• The verse prepares the reader for the next verse, which explains what God does delight in: those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love.
• This verse helps set the tone for the whole psalm, which celebrates God’s care, wisdom, and priorities, rather than human achievement or power.