King James Version

What Does Psalms 132:11 Mean?

Psalms 132:11 in the King James Version says “The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. ... — study this verse from Psalms chapter 132 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. body: Heb. belly

Psalms 132:11 · KJV


Context

9

Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy.

10

For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.

11

The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. body: Heb. belly

12

If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon thy throne for evermore.

13

For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God's sworn covenant is quoted: 'The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.' This verse begins divine response to the prayer (vv. 8-10). The phrase 'hath sworn in truth' emphasizes certainty and irrevocability - God's oath is absolutely reliable. 'In truth' means with faithfulness, reliability. The assurance 'he will not turn from it' promises permanence - God won't change His mind or revoke the covenant. The content 'of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne' promises dynastic succession through David's biological descendants. 'Fruit of thy body' emphasizes David's own offspring, not adopted heirs. This quotes/summarizes 2 Samuel 7:12-16, Nathan's prophecy establishing Davidic covenant. The emphasis on God's unchanging oath provides foundation for confidence.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 17; Psalm 89) became foundation for Israel's hope. Despite exile and apparent dynastic failure, prophets promised restoration through David's line (Isaiah 9:6-7; 11:1-10; Jeremiah 23:5-6; 33:14-26; Ezekiel 34:23-24; 37:24-25). Christians see ultimate fulfillment in Christ, David's son who reigns eternally (Luke 1:32-33; Acts 2:29-36).

Reflection Questions

  1. What is the significance of God swearing rather than merely promising?
  2. How does 'he will not turn from it' provide assurance despite circumstances?
  3. What does 'fruit of thy body' emphasize about the nature of Davidic succession?
  4. How does this covenant find ultimate fulfillment in Christ?
  5. In what ways does God's unchanging covenant character encourage believers?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
נִשְׁבַּֽע1 of 12

hath sworn

H7650

to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)

יְהוָ֨ה׀2 of 12

The LORD

H3068

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

לְדָוִ֡ד3 of 12

unto David

H1732

david, the youngest son of jesse

אֱמֶת֮4 of 12

in truth

H571

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

לֹֽא5 of 12
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָשׁ֪וּב6 of 12

he will not turn

H7725

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

מִ֫מֶּ֥נָּה7 of 12
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

מִפְּרִ֥י8 of 12

from it Of the fruit

H6529

fruit (literally or figuratively)

בִטְנְךָ֑9 of 12

of thy body

H990

the belly, especially the womb; also the bosom or body of anything

אָ֝שִׁ֗ית10 of 12

will I set

H7896

to place (in a very wide application)

לְכִסֵּא11 of 12

upon thy throne

H3678

properly, covered, i.e., a throne (as canopied)

לָֽךְ׃12 of 12
H0

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 132:11 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 132:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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