Psalms 21:6 (KJV)

What does Psalms 21:6 mean?

Psalms 21:6 describes how God has made the king deeply blessed and filled him with great joy by showing him favor. The verse highlights that the king’s happiness and sense of blessing come directly from being in God’s presence and experiencing God’s approval.

In this psalm, King David is speaking to God, reflecting on the blessings and victories God has given him. The verse emphasizes that the king’s lasting happiness and honor are not from his own power, but from God’s ongoing kindness and the joy of being close to God.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 21:6

• "made" (שִׁית, shith): This word often means "to set" or "to appoint." Here, it suggests that God is the one who actively establishes the king’s blessed state, not something the king achieves himself.
• "blessed" (בְּרָכָה, berakhah): This word refers to a state of being favored or enriched, often with both spiritual and material well-being. The verse stresses that the king’s blessings are abundant and enduring.
• "countenance" (פָּנִים, panim): This word literally means "face" or "presence." The idea is that the king’s joy comes from being in God’s presence, not just from external gifts or victories.

Why Psalms 21:6 matters

• The verse clarifies that true joy and blessing, even for a powerful king, come from God’s presence and favor, not from achievements or possessions.
• It connects the king’s happiness directly to his relationship with God, showing that spiritual closeness is the source of lasting gladness.
• In the wider context of the psalm, this verse highlights the ongoing relationship between God and the king, reinforcing the idea that God’s favor is the foundation of all the king’s successes and joys.