King James Version
What Does Psalms 68:34 Mean?
“Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds. clouds: or, heavens”
Psalms 68:34 · KJV
Context
32
Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah:
33
To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, which were of old; lo, he doth send out his voice, and that a mighty voice. send: Heb. give
34
Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds. clouds: or, heavens
35
O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places: the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe imperative 'Ascribe ye strength unto God' calls worshipers to attribute all power to God alone. His 'excellency is over Israel'—covenant people experience His glory uniquely. 'His strength is in the clouds'—God's power pervades even the heavens. True worship recognizes that every good thing originates with God (James 1:17), not human achievement. This guards against pride and cultivates humble gratitude.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Israel's temptation was attributing victories to their own strength (Deuteronomy 8:17). Prophets repeatedly called them to acknowledge God as the source of all blessing and power.
Reflection Questions
- What accomplishments or strengths are you tempted to claim as your own rather than gifts from God?
- How does actively 'ascribing' strength to God in worship combat self-reliance?
- In what ways does God's 'excellency' manifest uniquely in His church today?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsוְ֝עֻזּ֗וֹ2 of 8
“and his strength”
H5797strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)
לֵֽאלֹ֫הִ֥ים3 of 8
“unto God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
עַֽל4 of 8
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל5 of 8
“is over Israel”
H3478he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
וְ֝עֻזּ֗וֹ7 of 8
“and his strength”
H5797strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)
בַּשְּׁחָקִֽים׃8 of 8
“is in the clouds”
H7834a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament
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 68:34 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 68:34 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge