King James Version

What Does Psalms 118:16 Mean?

Psalms 118:16 in the King James Version says “The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 118 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.”

Psalms 118:16 · KJV

Context

14

The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.

15

The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.

16

The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.

17

I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.

18

The LORD hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death.

Read Psalms 118 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly. This verse intensifies verse 15's celebration through repetition. Y'min YHWH romemah (the right hand of the LORD is exalted/lifted high). Romemah (exalted/raised high) pictures victory gesture—warrior's arm lifted in triumph, standard raised high, victor acclaimed and honored. God's powerful intervention deserves public exaltation, visible recognition, corporate acclaim. The phrase appears twice in three verses (vv. 15-16), creating liturgical rhythm suggesting antiphonal worship—one group declaring God's right hand is exalted, another responding that it does valiantly.

The threefold repetition (vv. 15-16) of "the right hand of the LORD" emphasizes divine agency. Victory isn't attributed to human strategy, military superiority, or political maneuvering but solely to God's mighty arm. This recalls Moses's song: "Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy" (Exodus 15:6). The pattern continues: God's right hand saved David (Psalm 138:7), vindicates the oppressed (Psalm 139:10), holds believers secure (Isaiah 41:10). Ultimately, Christ sits at God's right hand in exaltation (Mark 16:19, Acts 2:33-34, Hebrews 1:3, 13), defeating sin, death, and Satan.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Right-hand imagery pervaded ancient Near Eastern royal and military iconography. Kings sat at the right hand of deity in victory reliefs; warriors fought with right-hand weapons; right-hand position signified honor and authority. God's 'right hand' became metaphor for His active, saving power throughout redemptive history: delivering Israel from Egypt, conquering Canaan, defeating enemies in Judges, establishing David's throne, preserving Judah through Assyrian siege, restoring exiles from Babylon. The early church saw Christ's ascension to God's right hand as ultimate fulfillment (Acts 2:32-36, 5:31, Romans 8:34, Ephesians 1:20, Colossians 3:1, Hebrews 10:12). Stephen saw Christ standing at God's right hand before his martyrdom (Acts 7:55-56). This position guarantees believers' security: "because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved" (Psalm 16:8).

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean to 'exalt' God's right hand through worship, testimony, and daily living?
  2. How does the threefold repetition teach the importance of corporate, repeated declaration of God's mighty acts?
  3. In what ways does Christ's position at God's right hand guarantee believers' present security and future vindication?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
יְמִ֥ין1 of 7

“The right hand”

H3225

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

יְ֝הוָה2 of 7

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

רוֹמֵמָ֑ה3 of 7

“is exalted”

H7426

to rise (literally or figuratively)

יְמִ֥ין4 of 7

“The right hand”

H3225

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

יְ֝הוָה5 of 7

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

עֹ֣שָׂה6 of 7

“doeth”

H6213

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

חָֽיִל׃7 of 7

“valiantly”

H2428

probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength

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 118:16 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 118:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 15:6Acts 2:32-36

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