Question 1

What does Psalms 90:17 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 90:17 is a prayer asking God to show favor and kindness ("the beauty of the LORD our God") to the people, and to make their efforts last and succeed ("establish thou the work of our hands"). The verse expresses a desire for God's presence to rest on them and for their work to have lasting value. Moses is traditionally understood to be speaking to God on behalf of the people, likely during a difficult time in Israel's journey. The verse closes a psalm that reflects on the shortness of human life and the greatness of God, ending with a request that God would make their limited efforts meaningful by His blessing.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 90:17

Accepted Answer

"beauty" (נֹעַם, no‘am): This word means pleasantness, favor, or delight. The request is not just for outward beauty, but for God's gracious presence and approval to rest on the people. "establish" (כּוּן, kun): This word means to make firm, secure, or lasting. The prayer is for God to make their work stable and enduring, not just successful for a moment. "work" (מַעֲשֶׂה, ma‘aseh) and "hands" (יָד, yad): The phrase "work of our hands" emphasizes human effort and daily labor. The repetition in the verse highlights the longing for God to give lasting significance to what they do.

Question 3

Why Psalms 90:17 matters

Accepted Answer

Psalms 90:17 clarifies that lasting value in human work comes from God's involvement, not just from human effort or skill. The verse connects the themes of human frailty and God's eternal nature found throughout Psalm 90, showing that God's favor is what gives meaning to short human lives. This verse helps correct the idea that faith is only about spiritual matters by showing that everyday work and tasks can be blessed and made meaningful by God.

Psalms 90:17 (KJV)