Psalm 21 Study Notes

21:1-2 These verses tie this psalm to the previous one with the mention of victory (see note at 20:9) and heart’s desire (see note at 20:4). This is a thanksgiving psalm that expressed thanks to the Lord for giving victory to the king (21:1,7).

21:3 The crown is used as a sign of victory over a defeated power (2Sm 12:30).

21:4 Lengthening of life seems to be related to the king’s victory over his enemies. To suffer defeat often meant to be killed, especially in the case of kings who led their own armies. Long life was apparently a common aim in prayer offered for kings (61:6; 72:17; 1Kg 3:11,14), and in a broader sense, this related not just to them but to their dynasties as well.

21:5 Majesty and splendor along with the crown of v. 3 recall the creation hymn in Ps 8, where man himself is to function as God’s co-regent. Together they are symbols of rule and dominion.

21:6-7 To be in the presence of God is the ultimate joy for a person who relies on the Lord (16:11). On Most High, see note at 7:17.

21:8-10 The Hebrew word yad (hand) can mean power or strength, but when used of God it is often a symbol of his judgment (Ex 9:3; Dt 2:15; Jdg 2:15). Fire is associated with God’s wrath (89:46), symbolizing the intensity and destructive power of God’s judgment. Being wiped from the earth and having no offspring show the annihilation of a person or people (Dt 4:26; 2Sm 4:11; Am 9:8).

21:11-12 The plan of the wicked will not succeed because God will thwart them (2:1-2,9). In some contexts their evil plans come back to them (7:15-16; Pr 26:27), but here it is God himself who will deal with them. Put . . . to flight is literally “turn a shoulder.” It refers to the enemies turning their back toward their attackers and running away (6:10; 9:3; Ex 23:27).