Psalm 33:17

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

Translations

Modern
A horse is a vain hope for salvation; even its great strength cannot save.
Traditional
An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength.
Literal
His horse is a false thing for salvation, and in the abundance of its strength it cannot provide escape.
Latin
Fallax equus ad salutem; in abundantia autem virtutis suæ non salvabitur.

Original

Hebrew
English
A horse is a vain hope for salvation; even its great strength cannot save.

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

Confidence: False False Confidence in Outward Resources Horse: Description of a Vain Thing for Safety Protection: Not to be Found in Horses The Horse: Strong The Horse: Vanity of Trusting To