King James Version

What Does Psalms 18:35 Mean?

Psalms 18:35 in the King James Version says “Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made ...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. thy gentleness: or, with thy meekness thou hast multiplied me”

Psalms 18:35 · KJV

Salvation

Context

33

He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places.

34

He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.

35

Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. thy gentleness: or, with thy meekness thou hast multiplied me

36

Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip. my feet: Heb. mine ankles

37

I have pursued mine enemies, and overtaken them: neither did I turn again till they were consumed.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God gave David the 'shield of salvation' and His right hand upheld him. Divine humility ('anavah'—or 'gentleness') made him great. This paradox—God's humility exalting David—anticipates Jesus' teaching that the way up is down (Mark 10:43-45). The Hebrew could mean God's condescension or His training David in humility. Either way, it demonstrates that greatness comes through humility, reversing worldly values.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

David's rise from shepherd to king exemplifies God exalting the humble. God's 'condescension' to personally involve Himself in David's life made greatness possible.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you see God's 'condescension' actively working in your life?
  2. In what ways does embracing humility open pathways to greater usefulness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַתִּתֶּן1 of 8

“Thou hast also given”

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

לִי֮2 of 8
H0
מָגֵ֪ן3 of 8

“me the shield”

H4043

a shield (i.e., the small one or buckler); figuratively, a protector; also the scaly hide of the crocodile

יִ֫שְׁעֶ֥ךָ4 of 8

“of thy salvation”

H3468

liberty, deliverance, prosperity

וִֽימִינְךָ֥5 of 8

“and thy 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

תִסְעָדֵ֑נִי6 of 8

“hath holden me up”

H5582

to support (mostly figurative)

וְֽעַנְוַתְךָ֥7 of 8

“and thy gentleness”

H6037

mildness (royal); also (concretely) oppressed

תַרְבֵּֽנִי׃8 of 8

“hath made me great”

H7235

to increase (in whatever respect)

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 18:35 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 18:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 22:36James 3:17-18Psalms 28:7Galatians 5:22-232 Corinthians 10:1Deuteronomy 33:29

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