Keraia
Psalm 124

Psalm 124:2

Our Help Is in the Name of the LORD · Psalm 124:1–8
Read Psalm 124

Translations

Modern
…if the LORD had not been on our side when men attacked us,
Traditional
If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us:
Literal
…if YHWH had not been for us, in the rising up of men against us,
Latin
…nisi quia Dominus erat in nobis: cum exsurgerent homines in nos,

Original

Hebrew
English
…if the LORD had not been on our side when men attacked us,

Notes

Psalms 124:1–2

The negative rhetorical questions emphasize the positive idea that the Lord was indeed on their side.

Psalms 124:1–8

This thanksgiving song describes what might happen if the Lord were not present with his people.

Psalms 120:1–134:3

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.

Theme notes and profiles

David Praise Psalms

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Degrees, Song of Hallel Music Psalms, Book of Song of Ascents Song of Ascents, Song of Degrees

Topics

God: Preserver