Psalms 16:2 (KJV)

What does Psalms 16:2 mean?

Psalms 16:2 shows the psalmist speaking to God, declaring that the LORD is his true master and that any goodness or virtue he has does not add anything to God Himself. The verse highlights the psalmist’s dependence on God and recognizes that God is complete in Himself, not needing anything from people.

Here, David is addressing God directly, using two different titles for God: “the LORD” (the personal name for God in Hebrew) and “my Lord” (a title showing authority and relationship). David is expressing humility, admitting that even his best qualities or actions do not benefit God, but rather, his goodness is something he receives from God, not something he gives to God.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 16:2

• LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal, covenant name for God in the Hebrew Bible. By using this name, David is addressing God in a close, personal way, not just as a distant deity.
• Lord (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai): This word means “master” or “sovereign.” David calls God both by His personal name and as his master, showing both intimacy and submission.
• goodness (טוֹב, tov): This word means “goodness,” “well-being,” or “virtue.” David is saying that his own goodness does not reach or benefit God, underlining God’s self-sufficiency.

Why Psalms 16:2 matters

• Psalms 16:2 clears up the idea that human goodness can somehow improve or add to God; it reminds readers that God is already perfect and complete.
• The verse emphasizes a personal relationship with God, as David uses both God’s personal name and a title of respect, showing both closeness and reverence.
• This verse connects to the wider theme of Psalms 16, where David expresses trust and security in God alone, not in his own achievements or goodness.