Psalms 89:14
What does Psalms 89:14 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 89:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 89:14 means
Psalm 89:14 poetically describes the divine attributes that uphold God's rule. "Righteousness and justice" form the unshakeable basis of His authority, signifying His perfect moral character and equitable governance. These aren't mere administrative principles but inherent qualities of His being, making His reign inherently fair and good. "Loving kindness" (or *hesed*, covenant loyalty) and "truth" (faithfulness) are personified as heralds preceding God, announcing His benevolent and trustworthy nature. This imagery emphasizes that God's presence and actions are always characterized by His unwavering love and unchangeable promises. Together, these attributes paint a picture of a sovereign God whose kingdom is established on unblemished integrity and unfailing grace, ensuring a secure and just order.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Righteousness and justice are the foundation of thy throne: Lovingkindness and truth go before thy face.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Righteousness and justice are the foundation of thy throne: Lovingkindness and truth go before thy face.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949The seat of your kingdom is resting on righteousness and right judging: mercy and good faith come before your face.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Righteousness and judgment <FI>Are<Fi> the fixed place of Thy throne, Kindness and truth go before Thy face.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752We are filled in the morning with thy mercy: and we have rejoiced, and are delighted all our days.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Righteousness and judgment are the foundation of thy throne; loving-kindness and truth go before thy face.
Context
Psalm 89 is a royal psalm, attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite, and it laments the perceived failure of God's covenant promises to David. The opening section of the psalm, up to verse 18, is a hymn of praise celebrating God's greatness, His faithfulness, and His mighty acts, particularly in creation and establishing His dominion. Verse 14 is a part of this initial hymn, reinforcing God's righteous character and unfailing attributes before the psalmist presents his lament concerning the Davidic covenant. Immediately following this verse, the psalm continues to extol the blessedness of those who know God, emphasizing His strength and favor, creating a powerful contrast with the plea for help that begins later in the chapter.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 1:17
For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
- Psalms 85:13
Righteousness shall go before him, And shall make his footsteps a way to walk in.
- Deuteronomy 32:4
The Rock, his work is perfect; For all his ways are justice: A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, Just and right is he.
- Revelation 15:3
And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; righteous and true are thy ways, thou King of the ages.
- Psalms 99:4
The king’s strength also loveth justice; Thou dost establish equity; Thou executest justice and righteousness in Jacob.
- Proverbs 16:12
It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness; For the throne is established by righteousness.
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