King James Version
What Does Psalms 68:20 Mean?
“He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.”
Context
18
Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them. for men: Heb. in the man
19
Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.
20
He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.
21
But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.
22
The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea:
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(20) **He that is.**—The insertion is unnecessary. Render, *God unto us *(*i.e., our God*)* is a God of salvation.*
**Issues from death.**—Literally, *for death goings out. *The same word rendered *issues *in Proverbs 4:23, there means *sources. *Here it will mean *sources of death, *or *escapes from death *as we connect the clause with what precedes or follows; Jehovah would provide an *issue out of death *for Israel, but a *source of death *to Israel’s enemies. The LXX. and Vulgate apparently take it in the former connection.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 68:20 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 68:20
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge