The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.

PSALMS 147:11KJV
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Psalms 147:11 (KJV)

What does Psalms 147:11 mean?

Psalms 147:11 says that the LORD delights in people who respect Him and trust in His kindness. God’s pleasure is not in outward strength or achievement, but in those who honor Him and rely on His faithful love.

This verse is part of a psalm where the writer, likely addressing the people of Israel after returning from exile, praises God for His care and power. The verse highlights that what truly matters to God is a humble attitude—fearing Him and hoping in His mercy—rather than human ability or accomplishments.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 147:11

  • LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. The verse stresses that it is Yahweh Himself who takes pleasure in these qualities, not a distant or generic deity.
  • pleasure (רָצָה, ratsah): This word means to take delight or find favor. It shows that God’s approval is not automatic; it is directed specifically toward certain attitudes.
  • fear (יָרֵא, yare’): Often understood as deep respect, awe, or reverence, not just being afraid. The verse points to an attitude of humility and recognition of God’s greatness.
  • hope (יָחַל, yachal): This word means to wait for or expect, often with patience. It suggests an active, trusting expectation of God’s goodness.
  • mercy (חֶסֶד, chesed): This is a rich Hebrew word for God’s loyal love, kindness, or steadfast mercy. The verse centers on trusting in God’s faithful, covenant love rather than one’s own merit.

Why Psalms 147:11 matters

  • Psalms 147:11 clarifies that God’s favor is not based on human strength, success, or status, but on a heart that reveres Him and trusts in His mercy.
  • The verse shifts focus from what people can do for God to how they respond to God’s character—especially His steadfast love (chesed).
  • In the context of the psalm, this verse reassures those who feel weak or unimportant that God values their trust and reverence more than outward power.

Where else these words appear

“hope” Hebrew H3176 · used in 41 verses

  • Genesis 8:12 And he stayed yet other seven days; and sent forth the dove; which returned not again unto him any more.
  • Psalms 31:24 Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.
  • Psalms 119:114 Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

“pleasure” Hebrew H7521 · used in 55 verses

  • Genesis 33:10 And Jacob said, Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy sight, then receive my present at my hand: for therefore I have seen thy face, as though I had seen the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me.
  • 2 Chronicles 36:21 To fulfil the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had enjoyed her sabbaths: for as long as she lay desolate she kept sabbath, to fulfil threescore and ten years.
  • Proverbs 3:12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

“fear” Hebrew H3373 · used in 63 verses

  • Genesis 22:12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.
  • Psalms 15:4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
  • Psalms 119:79 Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies.