Psalms 21:13 (KJV)

What does Psalms 21:13 mean?

Psalms 21:13 is a call for the LORD to be lifted up and honored because of His own strength, with the people responding by singing and praising His power. The verse expresses both a prayer for God’s greatness to be shown and a promise that His people will celebrate and acknowledge His might.

King David is speaking to the LORD (the God of Israel), likely after experiencing deliverance or victory. The verse closes the psalm by shifting from recounting God’s past help to asking for His continued exaltation. The people’s response—singing and praising—shows their gratitude and recognition that all strength and victory come from God, not themselves.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 21:13

• exalted (רוּם, rum): This word means to be lifted high or set above. Here, it is a request for God to be honored and recognized as supreme, not just in words but in the eyes of all.
• strength (עֹז, oz): This word refers to might or power, especially the kind that brings victory or protection. The focus is on God’s own strength, not human effort.
• sing (שָׁר, shiyr) and praise (זָמַר, zamar): These words both involve joyful music, but "zamar" often carries the sense of making music with instruments. The verse highlights not just verbal praise but a full, joyful celebration of God’s power.
• power (גְּבוּרָה, geburah): This word points to God’s mighty deeds or heroic strength, underlining that what is being celebrated is not just abstract power but God’s actions on behalf of His people.

Why Psalms 21:13 matters

• Psalms 21:13 emphasizes that worship is a response to God’s demonstrated strength, not just a routine or obligation.
• The verse clarifies that the focus is on God’s power and greatness, not human achievement or ability.
• This closing verse ties the whole psalm together, moving from recounting God’s help to a communal promise to keep honoring Him, showing how praise naturally follows God’s saving acts.