King James Version

What Does Psalms 149:8 Mean?

Psalms 149:8 in the King James Version says “To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; — study this verse from Psalms chapter 149 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;

Psalms 149:8 · KJV


Context

6

Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand; mouth: Heb. throat

7

To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people;

8

To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;

9

To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron. Binding kings symbolizes complete victory. Historically, captured kings were paraded in chains. Spiritually, pictures Christ's victory over powers (Colossians 2:15). Revelation 20:1-3 depicts Satan bound.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient warfare concluded with captured kings bound and humiliated. This imagery became metaphorical for God's comprehensive victory over opposing powers.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Christ's victory (Colossians 2:15) fulfill binding kings imagery?
  2. What modern "kings" need binding by gospel truth?
  3. How should Christians engage earthly powers, knowing Christ achieved ultimate victory?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לֶאְסֹ֣ר1 of 6

To bind

H631

to yoke or hitch; by analogy, to fasten in any sense, to join battle

מַלְכֵיהֶ֣ם2 of 6

their kings

H4428

a king

בְּזִקִּ֑ים3 of 6

with chains

H2131

properly, what leaps forth, i.e., flash of fire, or a burning arrow; also (from the original sense of the root) a bond

וְ֝נִכְבְּדֵיהֶ֗ם4 of 6

and their nobles

H3513

to be heavy, i.e., in a bad sense (burdensome, severe, dull) or in a good sense (numerous, rich, honorable); causatively, to make weighty (in the same

בְּכַבְלֵ֥י5 of 6

with fetters

H3525

a fetter

בַרְזֶֽל׃6 of 6

of iron

H1270

iron (as cutting); by extension, an iron implement


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 149:8 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 149:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study