Psalms 16:5 (KJV)

What does Psalms 16:5 mean?

Psalms 16:5 says that the LORD is the source and sustainer of everything the writer values, describing God as both his inheritance and his daily provision. The verse expresses trust that God alone secures and maintains the writer’s future and well-being.

King David is speaking in this psalm, addressing God directly in a time of reflection or prayer. David uses the language of inheritance and portion, which would have been familiar to people in ancient Israel, to show that his true security and satisfaction come from God rather than land, wealth, or circumstance.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 16:5

• LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a close, covenant relationship rather than a distant deity.
• portion (מְנָת, menat) and inheritance (חֵלֶק, cheleq): Both words refer to what someone receives as their share, often used for land or property. Here, David says God Himself is his share, highlighting a spiritual rather than material inheritance.
• cup (כּוֹס, kos): In Hebrew poetry, “cup” often stands for what someone is given in life, whether good or bad. David is saying that God determines and provides his life’s experiences.
• maintainest (תָּמִיךְ, tamikh): This word means to hold up, support, or keep secure. David trusts that God actively preserves his “lot” or destiny.
• lot (גוֹרָל, goral): This refers to the outcome assigned to someone, often by casting lots. David is confident that God is in control of whatever comes his way.

Why Psalms 16:5 matters

• Psalms 16:5 clarifies that David’s hope and security are not in material things or circumstances, but in God Himself as his ultimate “portion” and “inheritance.”
• The verse connects to the wider psalm, which is about trust and confidence in God’s care, showing that David’s relationship with God is his greatest treasure.
• Understanding the original words for “portion,” “cup,” and “lot” helps modern readers see that David is using everyday terms from his culture to express deep spiritual trust, not just making poetic statements.