A Psalm of David.
This introduction attributes the psalm to King David, the second king of Israel, who reigned around 1010-970 BC. David is known for his deep relationship with God and his role as a prophet. The psalm is considered a royal psalm, often associated with the Davidic covenant, which promised an everlasting kingdom through David's lineage (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

The LORD said to my Lord:
The first "LORD" refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible. The second "Lord" (Adonai) is a title of respect and authority. This phrase is significant in the New Testament, where Jesus uses it to demonstrate His divinity and messianic identity (Matthew 22:41-45). It implies a conversation between God the Father and the Messiah, who is greater than David.

Sit at My right hand
Sitting at the right hand is a position of honor and authority, often reserved for a trusted advisor or heir. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the right hand symbolized power and strength. This phrase is frequently cited in the New Testament to affirm Christ's exaltation and His role as the eternal High Priest and King (Hebrews 1:3, 8:1).

until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.
This imagery of a footstool signifies total victory and subjugation of enemies. In ancient times, conquering kings would place their feet on the necks of defeated foes as a sign of triumph. This prophecy points to the ultimate victory of the Messiah over all opposition, a theme echoed in 1 Corinthians 15:25-27, where Paul speaks of Christ's reign until all enemies are defeated, including death itself.

The LORD extends Your mighty scepter from Zion:
This phrase signifies divine authority and kingship. The "LORD" refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God, indicating that the authority comes directly from God. The "mighty scepter" symbolizes royal power and dominion, often associated with kingship in ancient Near Eastern cultures. "Zion" is a term for Jerusalem, the city of David, and the spiritual center of Israel. It is significant as the location of the temple, representing God's presence among His people. This phrase is prophetic, pointing to the Messiah's reign, as seen in the New Testament where Jesus is depicted as the King who rules from Zion (Hebrews 12:22). The extension of the scepter suggests the expansion of His rule and influence, indicating a kingdom that will grow and encompass all nations.

“Rule in the midst of Your enemies.”
This command highlights the Messiah's authority and victory over opposition. The presence of "enemies" suggests ongoing conflict, yet the command to "rule" implies assured triumph and sovereignty despite resistance. This reflects the biblical theme of God's anointed overcoming adversaries, as seen in the life of King David and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus' victory over sin and death is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of this rule (1 Corinthians 15:25). The phrase also suggests a future eschatological fulfillment when Christ will reign supreme over all creation, as depicted in Revelation 19:15-16. The imagery of ruling amidst enemies underscores the power and authority of the Messiah, who establishes His kingdom in the face of opposition.

Your people shall be willing on Your day of battle.
This phrase suggests a voluntary and enthusiastic response from the followers of the Messiah. The "day of battle" can be interpreted as a time of divine intervention or judgment, often associated with the eschatological "Day of the Lord." The willingness of the people indicates a readiness to serve and support the Messiah, reflecting a transformation of hearts and minds. This can be connected to the New Testament concept of believers being willing participants in the spiritual battles described in Ephesians 6:10-18. Historically, this willingness can be seen in the dedication of the Israelites during times of national crisis, such as in the days of King David, who is traditionally attributed as the author of this psalm.

Arrayed in holy splendor,
The imagery of being "arrayed in holy splendor" suggests a priestly or kingly attire, symbolizing purity, righteousness, and divine favor. This attire is reminiscent of the garments worn by the priests in the Old Testament, as described in Exodus 28. It signifies the sanctification and consecration of the Messiah's followers, who are set apart for a holy purpose. This can also be seen as a type of the glorified state of believers, as mentioned in Revelation 19:8, where the saints are clothed in fine linen, representing righteous acts.

from the womb of the dawn,
The phrase "from the womb of the dawn" evokes the image of a new beginning or a fresh start, much like the birth of a new day. It suggests the emergence of something pure and untainted, symbolizing the renewal and rejuvenation that comes with the Messiah's reign. This can be linked to the resurrection of Christ, who is described as the "firstborn from the dead" in Colossians 1:18, bringing new life to His followers. The dawn also represents hope and the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, where God's mercies are new every morning.

to You belongs the dew of Your youth.
The "dew of Your youth" symbolizes vitality, strength, and freshness. Dew is often associated with blessing and abundance in the Bible, as seen in Genesis 27:28. This phrase can be interpreted as the perpetual vigor and eternal nature of the Messiah's reign, emphasizing His divine nature and unending life. It also reflects the rejuvenating power of the Messiah, who renews and sustains His people. This can be connected to Isaiah 40:31, where those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. The imagery of youth and dew together underscores the idea of an everlasting kingdom, full of life and energy.

The LORD has sworn
This phrase emphasizes the certainty and divine authority behind the statement. In biblical context, when God swears an oath, it signifies an unchangeable and eternal decree. This is seen in other scriptures such as Hebrews 6:17-18, where God's oath is described as a guarantee of His promises. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) highlights the covenantal name of God, underscoring His faithfulness and sovereignty.

and will not change His mind:
This assures the immutability of God's purpose. In Numbers 23:19, it is stated that God is not like humans who change their minds. This phrase reinforces the idea that God's plans are steadfast and reliable. Theologically, it speaks to the doctrine of God's immutability, meaning His nature and promises remain constant throughout time.

“You are a priest forever
This part of the verse introduces the concept of an eternal priesthood, which is unique in the biblical narrative. Unlike the Levitical priesthood, which was temporary and hereditary, this priesthood is perpetual. This is a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ, who is described in Hebrews 7:24-25 as having a permanent priesthood, able to save completely those who come to God through Him.

in the order of Melchizedek.”
Melchizedek is a mysterious figure who appears in Genesis 14:18-20 as the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. His priesthood is significant because it predates the Levitical priesthood and is not based on lineage. This order is characterized by righteousness and peace, as seen in the meaning of Melchizedek's name and title. In Hebrews 7, Melchizedek is used as a type of Christ, illustrating the superiority and eternal nature of Jesus' priesthood. This connection highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the New Testament revelation of Christ's role as both king and priest.

The Lord is at Your right hand;
This phrase indicates a position of power and authority. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the right hand was a symbol of strength and honor. The "Lord" here refers to God, who is depicted as supporting and empowering the king, traditionally understood as the Messiah. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages where God is described as being at the right hand of His people, providing protection and victory (Psalm 16:8, Psalm 121:5). Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's exaltation, as He is seated at the right hand of God (Mark 16:19, Hebrews 1:3).

He will crush kings in the day of His wrath.
This phrase speaks to divine judgment and the ultimate victory over earthly powers. The imagery of crushing kings suggests a decisive and overwhelming defeat, which is a common theme in prophetic literature (Isaiah 24:21, Revelation 19:15). The "day of His wrath" refers to a time of judgment, often associated with the Day of the Lord, a future event when God will execute justice and establish His kingdom (Zephaniah 1:14-18, Joel 2:1-11). This can be seen as a messianic prophecy, pointing to Christ's return when He will judge the nations and establish His eternal reign (Matthew 25:31-46, Revelation 19:11-21).

He will judge the nations
This phrase indicates a future act of divine judgment. In biblical context, judgment often refers to God's righteous assessment and punishment of nations based on their actions and adherence to His laws. This is consistent with the role of the Messiah as a judge, as seen in passages like Isaiah 11:3-4, where the Messiah judges with righteousness. The concept of God judging nations is also found in Joel 3:12 and Matthew 25:31-32, where all nations are gathered for judgment. This reflects the universal scope of God's authority and the accountability of all peoples to His standards.

heaping up the dead
This imagery suggests a decisive and overwhelming victory over the enemies of God. In ancient warfare, the aftermath of battle often involved the piling up of the slain, symbolizing total defeat. This phrase can be seen as a prophetic depiction of the ultimate triumph of God's justice over evil. It echoes the imagery found in Ezekiel 39:11-12, where the dead are buried after God's victory over Gog. Theologically, it underscores the seriousness of divine judgment and the finality of God's victory over sin and rebellion.

He will crush the leaders far and wide
The crushing of leaders signifies the dismantling of earthly powers and authorities that oppose God's rule. This is reminiscent of the prophecy in Daniel 2:44, where God's kingdom will crush all other kingdoms. The phrase "far and wide" emphasizes the extensive reach of this judgment, indicating that no leader or nation is beyond the scope of God's authority. This can also be seen as a type of Christ's ultimate victory over all powers, as described in 1 Corinthians 15:24-25, where Christ will put all enemies under His feet. This reflects the messianic expectation of a ruler who will establish God's justice and peace universally.

He will drink from the brook by the road;
This phrase suggests a moment of refreshment and sustenance. In the ancient Near Eastern context, brooks or streams were vital sources of water, especially in arid regions. The imagery of drinking from a brook can symbolize humility and reliance on God's provision. In biblical typology, this act can be seen as a representation of Jesus Christ's humanity and His reliance on the Father during His earthly ministry. The brook by the road indicates a place of transition or journey, possibly alluding to the path of obedience and suffering that Christ undertook. This imagery connects to other scriptures where water is a symbol of life and sustenance, such as in Psalm 23:2, where God leads His people beside still waters.

therefore He will lift up His head.
Lifting up one's head is a sign of victory, confidence, and restoration. In the context of Psalm 110, which is a messianic psalm, this phrase signifies the triumph and exaltation of the Messiah after a period of trial or battle. The act of lifting the head can also denote the resurrection and ascension of Christ, as He is raised to a position of honor and authority. This connects to Philippians 2:9-11, where God exalts Jesus and gives Him the name above every name. Historically, lifting the head was a gesture of dignity and honor, often associated with kingship and divine favor. This phrase encapsulates the ultimate victory of the Messiah, who, after enduring suffering, is gloriously vindicated.