The LORD is on my side;
This phrase emphasizes the personal relationship and assurance of divine support. In the context of ancient Israel, the LORD (Yahweh) was seen as the covenant God who delivered His people from Egypt and provided for them in the wilderness. The idea of God being "on my side" reflects the covenantal promise found in passages like Deuteronomy 31:6, where God assures His people of His presence and support. This assurance is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are reminded in Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Theologically, this phrase underscores the omnipotence and faithfulness of God, who stands with His people against any adversary.

I will not be afraid.
Fear is a common human experience, often addressed in Scripture. The psalmist's declaration of fearlessness is rooted in the confidence that comes from God's presence and protection. Historically, Israel faced numerous threats from surrounding nations, yet the psalmist's trust in God dispels fear. This sentiment is mirrored in Isaiah 41:10, where God tells His people not to fear because He is with them. In the New Testament, Jesus reassures His followers in John 14:27, "Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." The phrase highlights the peace and courage that come from trusting in God's sovereignty and care.

What can man do to me?
This rhetorical question underscores the limitations of human power compared to divine authority. In the cultural context of the psalm, human threats were real, whether from enemies, oppressors, or personal adversaries. However, the psalmist's confidence in God's protection renders human threats insignificant. This theme is echoed in Hebrews 13:6, which quotes this verse to encourage believers to trust in God's provision and protection. Theologically, it points to the ultimate security found in God, who is greater than any earthly power. This assurance is a type of Christ's victory over sin and death, as believers are reminded that no human action can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39).

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

2. The Psalmist
Traditionally attributed to King David, though the specific author is not definitively known. The psalmist expresses personal trust in God's protection.

3. Enemies of the Psalmist
While not specifically named in this verse, the context implies adversaries or threats that the psalmist faces.

4. Israel
The nation often represented in the Psalms, experiencing God's deliverance and protection.

5. Temple Worship
Psalm 118 is part of the Hallel, a series of psalms (113-118) sung during Jewish festivals, particularly Passover, highlighting themes of deliverance and thanksgiving.God's Presence Provides Courage
Recognize that the presence of the LORD is a source of courage and strength, dispelling fear of human threats.

Trust Overcomes Fear
Emphasize the importance of placing trust in God rather than succumbing to fear of what others might do.

Divine Protection
Understand that God's protection is a recurring promise throughout Scripture, offering believers assurance in times of trouble.

Faith in God's Sovereignty
Encourage believers to have faith in God's sovereign control over all circumstances, knowing that He is on their side.

Living Fearlessly
Challenge believers to live boldly for God, knowing that human opposition cannot thwart His purposes.Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 118

What does "This is the day the Lord made" mean?

Will God always strive with man? (Genesis 6:3 vs. Psalm 103:9)

(Psalm 118:17) Does the assertion 'I shall not die, but live' contradict mortality or promise an unrealistic divine protection?

Psalm 22:6 - Is the statement 'I am a worm, and not a man' hyperbole, or does it imply a scientific or historical inaccuracy?(6) A reminiscence of Psalm 56:9-11.

Verse 6. - The Lord is on my side. "At this point the speaker transfers his point of view into the past; he is once more fear less in the midst of foes" (Cheyne). I will not fear (comp. Psalm 23:4; Psalm 27:1; Psalm 56:4, etc.). What can man do unto me? Man is powerless against God. "If God be for us [i.e. on our side], who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31).

Parallel Commentaries ...


The LORD is
יְהוָ֣ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

with me;
לִ֭י (lî)
Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's Hebrew

I will not
לֹ֣א (lō)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

be afraid.
אִירָ֑א (’î·rā)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 3372: To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten

What
מַה־ (mah-)
Interrogative
Strong's 4100: What?, what!, indefinitely what

can man
אָדָֽם׃ (’ā·ḏām)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 120: Ruddy, a human being

do
יַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה (ya·‘ă·śeh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213: To do, make

to me?
לִ֣י (lî)
Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's Hebrew


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OT Poetry: Psalm 118:6 Yahweh is on my side (Psalm Ps Psa.)