Psalms 68:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 68:20 mean?

Psalms 68:20 says that the God worshipped by the psalmist is the God who brings salvation, and that all power over life and death belongs to Him. The verse highlights that deliverance from danger and even from death itself is in God's hands alone.

In this psalm, David is speaking to the people of Israel, celebrating God's mighty acts and His care for His people. The verse comes in a section where God’s power to save and protect is being praised, especially in times of threat or trouble. The focus is on God as the ultimate source of rescue, not just from enemies, but even from death.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 68:20

• God (אֵל, El): This word is used twice in the verse and is a general term for God, emphasizing His strength and might.
• salvation (מוֹשָׁעָה, moshā‘āh): This word means "deliverance" or "rescue," highlighting that God is the one who saves His people from harm.
• GOD (יְהוָה, YHWH) and Lord (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai): These two titles together stress both God’s personal name (YHWH) and His authority (Adonai), underlining His supreme power.
• issues (תּוֹצָאוֹת, totsa’ot): This word means "outgoings" or "escapes," often understood as the ways or means of deliverance, especially from death.
• death (מָוֶת, mavet): This is the standard Hebrew word for death, making clear that the verse is speaking about literal deliverance from dying.

Why Psalms 68:20 matters

• Psalms 68:20 clarifies that salvation is not just spiritual but includes rescue from real-life dangers, even death itself, showing the full scope of God’s saving power.
• The verse emphasizes that no one else holds the power over life and death except God, which would have reassured ancient Israelites facing threats.
• In the context of the whole psalm, this verse ties together the themes of God’s might, care, and faithfulness, reminding readers that every escape from danger is ultimately in God’s control.