King James Version

What Does Psalms 103:20 Mean?

Psalms 103:20 in the King James Version says “Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. ...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 103 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. that excel: Heb. mighty in strength”

Psalms 103:20 · KJV

Strength

Context

18

To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.

19

The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.

20

Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. that excel: Heb. mighty in strength

21

Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.

22

Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Angels 'excel in strength' and 'do his commandments,' serving as perfect models of obedient service. They 'hearken unto the voice of his word,' responding immediately to God's instructions. This angelic obedience challenges believers to similar responsiveness. The Reformed emphasis on God's glory recognizes that all creation, including angels, exists to serve and glorify Him. Christ, superior to angels (Heb 1:4), commissions angels to serve believers (Heb 1:14), demonstrating the dignity of redeemed humanity.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Angels in Hebrew thought were powerful spiritual beings serving as God's messengers and agents. Israel understood them as part of God's heavenly court, executing His will throughout creation.

Reflection Questions

  1. What can you learn from angels about prompt, wholehearted obedience to God's word?
  2. How does knowing angels serve believers affect your view of God's care for you?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
בָּרֲכ֥וּ1 of 10

“Bless”

H1288

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

יְהוָ֗ה2 of 10

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מַלְאָ֫כָ֥יו3 of 10

“ye his angels”

H4397

a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)

גִּבֹּ֣רֵי4 of 10

“that excel”

H1368

powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant

כֹ֭חַ5 of 10

“in strength”

H3581

vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)

עֹשֵׂ֣י6 of 10

“that do”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

דְּבָרֽוֹ׃7 of 10

“his commandments”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

לִ֝שְׁמֹ֗עַ8 of 10

“hearkening”

H8085

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

בְּק֣וֹל9 of 10

“unto the voice”

H6963

a voice or sound

דְּבָרֽוֹ׃10 of 10

“his commandments”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 103:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 103:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hebrews 1:14Psalms 148:2Luke 1:19Matthew 26:532 Kings 19:35Luke 2:13-14

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