Psalms 68:35 (KJV)

What does Psalms 68:35 mean?

Psalms 68:35 describes God as awe-inspiring and powerful, especially when acting from His holy places, and declares that the God of Israel gives strength and power to His people, ending with a blessing for God. The verse highlights both God’s majesty and His generosity toward those who belong to Him.

This verse comes near the end of a psalm attributed to David, who is praising God’s might and care for Israel. The setting is one of worship, recognizing God’s presence in the sanctuary and His active role in empowering His people. The verse sums up the psalm’s theme: God’s greatness is not distant or abstract, but shown in the real help and strength He gives.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 68:35

• "terrible" (יָרֵא, yare’): This word is often understood as “awe-inspiring” or “worthy of reverence,” not just frightening. It points to God’s overwhelming presence that commands respect.
• "places" (מִקְדָּשׁ, miqdash): This means “holy places” or “sanctuaries,” suggesting God’s presence is especially powerful where He is worshiped, but not limited to one location.
• "strength" (עֹז, ‘oz): This word means “strength” or “might,” emphasizing that the power God gives is real and effective, not just symbolic.
• "power" (תַּעֲצֻמָה, ta‘atsumah): This word means “power” or “might,” and its pairing with “strength” underlines the completeness of what God provides to His people.

Why Psalms 68:35 matters

• Psalms 68:35 clears up that God’s “terribleness” is about awe and reverence, not cruelty or fearfulness, helping readers understand the tone of worship.
• The verse emphasizes that God’s power is not just for Himself but is shared with His people, showing a relationship of care and support.
• This verse connects the themes of God’s majesty and His generosity, rounding out the psalm’s message that God is both exalted and intimately involved with His people.