Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

PSALMS 20:7KJV
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Psalms 20:7 (KJV)

What does Psalms 20:7 mean?

Psalms 20:7 says that while some people put their confidence in military strength or worldly power, the speaker and their group choose to trust in the name of the LORD their God. The verse draws a clear contrast between relying on human resources and relying on God.

This verse is part of a psalm where King David is praying for help and victory, likely before going into battle. David is speaking to God on behalf of the people, reminding them that true security does not come from chariots (ancient war vehicles) or horses (symbols of military might), but from remembering and trusting in God’s character and reputation.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 20:7

  • "chariots" (רֶכֶב, rekhev): This word refers to war chariots, a key symbol of military technology and strength in the ancient world. Mentioning chariots highlights what powerful nations trusted for victory.
  • "horses" (סוּס, sus): Horses were valuable for speed and power in battle. Their mention emphasizes reliance on visible, tangible sources of security.
  • "remember" (זָכַר, zakhar): This word means more than just recalling; it often carries the sense of calling to mind with intention or trust. Here, it points to an active choice to focus on God’s name.
  • "name" (שֵׁם, shem): In Hebrew thought, a name represents character, reputation, and authority. Trusting in God’s name means relying on who God is, not just saying the word.
  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is God’s personal covenant name, reminding the people of God’s unique relationship and promises to them.
  • "God" (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim): This word emphasizes God’s power and majesty, setting Him apart from all human strength.

Why Psalms 20:7 matters

  • Psalms 20:7 clarifies that faith in God is set against the backdrop of real-world pressures to trust in visible power or resources.
  • The verse highlights that remembering God’s name is an intentional act, not just a passive thought, and it involves trusting in God’s character and promises.
  • In the context of the whole psalm, this verse helps the reader see that the community’s hope for victory and help is rooted in their relationship with God, not in their own might.

Where else these words appear

“chariots” Hebrew H7393 · used in 104 verses

  • Genesis 50:9 And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen: and it was a very great company.
  • 1 Kings 10:26 And Solomon gathered together chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, whom he bestowed in the cities for chariots, and with the king at Jerusalem.
  • 2 Chronicles 9:25 And Solomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen; whom he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.

“horses” Hebrew H5483 · used in 131 verses

  • Genesis 47:17 And they brought their cattle unto Joseph: and Joseph gave them bread in exchange for horses, and for the flocks, and for the cattle of the herds, and for the asses: and he fed them with bread for all their cattle for that year.
  • 2 Kings 14:20 And they brought him on horses: and he was buried at Jerusalem with his fathers in the city of David.
  • Jeremiah 12:5 If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?