Psalm 33:16

Praise to the Creator · Psalm 33:1–22
Read Psalm 33

Translations

Modern
No king is saved by his vast army; no warrior is delivered by his great strength.
Traditional
There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength.
Literal
No king is saved by the abundance of his strength; a mighty man is not delivered by the abundance of his power.
Latin
Non salvatur rex per multam virtutem, et gigas non salvabitur in multitudine virtutis suæ.

Original

Hebrew
English
No king is saved by his vast army; no warrior is delivered by his great strength.

Notes

army …great strength. … horse: Even military power is under God's control (see Psalm 33:10–11; Ecclesiastes 9:11).

From the heavens, the Lord searches out and cares for anyone who fears him (see Psalm 14:2–3).

This hymn of creation (see also Psalms 8, 19, 104, 145) might be a continuation of Psalm 32. It urges readers to praise God (Psalm 33:1–3), to recognize the power of his word in creation (33:4–7), and to respect the Creator (33:8–11). It gives hope to forgiven sinners (Psalm 32) that they can live a new life in the fear of the Lord and under divine protection.

Theme notes and profiles

The Creator-King

Parallels

Psalm 148:1–14

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) David Music Psalms, Book of

Topics

Armies: March in Ranks: Confidence In, Vain Confidence: False False Confidence in Man Kings: Not Save by Their Armies Protection: Not to be Found in Hosts