Psalms 56:10 (KJV)

What does Psalms 56:10 mean?

Psalms 56:10 expresses the psalmist’s commitment to honor and trust God by praising His word, both as “God” and as “the LORD.” The verse highlights a deep respect for what God has spoken, showing that the psalmist finds comfort and confidence in God’s promises.

In this psalm, David is speaking while facing danger from his enemies. He repeats his praise for God’s word, emphasizing both the general name for God (“God”) and God’s personal, covenant name (“the LORD”). This repetition underlines how much David values God’s promises, especially when he feels threatened or afraid.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 56:10

• God (אֱלֹהִים, ’Elohim): This is a general term for God, often used to refer to God’s power and majesty. Its use here shows David’s recognition of God’s universal authority.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is God’s personal, covenant name, often connected to His faithfulness to His people. By using both names, David is recognizing both God’s greatness and His personal relationship with him.
• praise (הָלַל, halal): This word means to boast about, celebrate, or give glory to. David is not just quietly appreciating God’s word; he is openly celebrating it.
• word (דָּבָר, davar): This refers to God’s spoken promise or message. David’s focus is not just on God in general, but specifically on what God has said, showing trust in God’s promises.

Why Psalms 56:10 matters

• This verse clarifies that David’s trust is anchored not just in who God is, but specifically in what God has promised—His word is the source of David’s praise and confidence.
• The use of both “God” and “the LORD” highlights the fullness of God’s character: both His power and His personal faithfulness.
• In the context of the psalm, this verse shows how David responds to fear and trouble—not by focusing on his problems, but by turning his attention to God’s trustworthy word.