For the choirmaster.
This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was to be directed by the choirmaster, a leader of music in the temple. The role of the choirmaster was crucial in ancient Israelite worship, as music was a central part of their religious expression. This highlights the communal aspect of the psalm, suggesting it was meant to be sung by the congregation, reflecting the collective praise and worship of God.

A Psalm of David.
Attributed to King David, this psalm reflects his personal experiences and relationship with God. David, as a king, warrior, and poet, often expressed his reliance on God through psalms. His authorship lends the psalm historical significance, as it connects to the period of the united monarchy in Israel, around 1000 BC. David's life, marked by battles and divine deliverance, provides a backdrop for understanding the themes of strength and salvation in this psalm.

O LORD, the king rejoices in Your strength.
The use of "O LORD" signifies a direct address to Yahweh, the covenant name of God, emphasizing a personal and covenantal relationship. The king's rejoicing in God's strength underscores the belief that true power and victory come from God, not human might. This reflects the biblical theme that God is the source of strength for His people, as seen in other scriptures like 1 Samuel 2:10 and Psalm 28:7. The king's joy is rooted in the recognition of God's active role in his victories and successes.

How greatly he exults in Your salvation!
The term "salvation" here can refer to deliverance from enemies or divine intervention in times of trouble. The king's exultation in God's salvation highlights the joy and gratitude for God's saving acts. This phrase connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's deliverance of Israel, such as the Exodus, and foreshadows the ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ. The king's response serves as a model for believers, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and celebrating God's saving work in their lives.

You have granted his heart’s desire
This phrase reflects the fulfillment of the king's desires, which aligns with the biblical theme of God granting the righteous the desires of their hearts (Psalm 37:4). In the context of ancient Israel, the king's desires would often be for victory, justice, and the welfare of his people. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly aligns His desires with the will of the Father. The granting of desires also echoes the covenantal promises God made to David, ensuring the prosperity and success of his lineage (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

and have not withheld the request of his lips.
This part emphasizes God's responsiveness to prayer, highlighting the intimate relationship between the king and God. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, a king's requests would often involve matters of national importance, such as military success or divine guidance. This phrase can be connected to the New Testament teaching on prayer, where believers are encouraged to present their requests to God with the assurance that He hears and answers (Philippians 4:6-7). It also foreshadows the intercessory role of Christ, who prays on behalf of His people (Hebrews 7:25).

Selah
The term "Selah" is often understood as a pause for reflection or a musical interlude, inviting the reader or listener to contemplate the preceding words. In the context of this psalm, it serves as a moment to reflect on God's faithfulness in answering the king's prayers and fulfilling his desires. This pause encourages deeper meditation on the nature of God's provision and the importance of aligning one's desires with His will.

For You welcomed him with rich blessings;
This phrase highlights God's favor and benevolence towards the king, often understood to be David. The concept of divine blessing is central to the covenant relationship between God and His chosen leaders. In the historical context, blessings were seen as tangible evidence of God's approval and support. This aligns with the promises made to David in 2 Samuel 7:8-16, where God assures him of a lasting dynasty. Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate blessing through Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Son of David (Matthew 1:1). The blessings bestowed upon the king can also be seen as a type of the spiritual blessings believers receive in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

You placed on his head a crown of pure gold.
The imagery of a crown signifies authority, honor, and legitimacy. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a crown was a symbol of kingship and divine approval. The use of "pure gold" emphasizes the value and purity of the king's rule, suggesting a reign that is both precious and divinely sanctioned. This can be connected to the Davidic Covenant, where God promises to establish David's throne forever (2 Samuel 7:16). Prophetically, this points to the eternal kingship of Jesus Christ, who is described as wearing many crowns in Revelation 19:12, symbolizing His ultimate authority and victory. The crown of gold also reflects the idea of the believer's reward in heaven, as seen in 1 Peter 5:4, where the faithful are promised a crown of glory that will never fade away.

He asked You for life
In this phrase, the psalmist refers to King David's request for life, which can be understood both literally and spiritually. In the historical context, David often faced threats to his life, whether from enemies or during battles. His plea for life reflects a dependence on God for protection and sustenance. Biblically, asking for life can also symbolize a deeper yearning for spiritual vitality and a relationship with God, as seen in other scriptures like Psalm 16:11, where life is associated with joy and eternal pleasures in God's presence.

and You granted it—
This part of the verse highlights God's faithfulness in responding to the prayers of His anointed. The granting of life signifies God's sovereignty and His ability to fulfill His promises. In the broader biblical narrative, God's granting of life can be seen as a foreshadowing of the eternal life offered through Jesus Christ, as referenced in John 10:28, where Jesus speaks of giving eternal life to His followers.

length of days,
The phrase "length of days" is often used in the Old Testament to denote a long and prosperous life, a common blessing in ancient Israelite culture. It reflects the covenantal promises found in Deuteronomy 5:33, where obedience to God's commandments is linked to prolonged life in the land. This concept is also echoed in Proverbs 3:2, which associates wisdom and understanding with long life and peace.

forever and ever.
This expression extends the promise of life beyond temporal existence, suggesting an eternal dimension. In the context of the Davidic covenant, it points to the everlasting kingdom promised to David's lineage, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the eternal King. The phrase "forever and ever" is a common biblical motif that underscores God's eternal nature and His unending reign, as seen in passages like Psalm 145:13 and Revelation 11:15, where God's kingdom is described as everlasting.

Great is his glory in Your salvation;
This phrase highlights the divine origin of the king's glory, emphasizing that it is not self-derived but a result of God's intervention and deliverance. In the historical context, the king of Israel was often seen as God's anointed, and his victories were attributed to divine favor. The term "salvation" here can be understood as deliverance from enemies, a common theme in the Psalms. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and the Davidic king, where the king's success is a testament to God's faithfulness. Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, whose ultimate glory is revealed through His work of salvation for humanity. The glory of the king prefigures the greater glory of Jesus, who is exalted through His resurrection and ascension.

You bestow on him splendor and majesty.
This phrase indicates that the king's honor and dignity are gifts from God, not achievements of his own making. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings were often seen as representatives of divine authority, and their splendor was a reflection of the deity they served. The words "splendor" and "majesty" suggest a royal dignity that is both visible and awe-inspiring, pointing to the king's elevated status among the nations. Biblically, this can be connected to the promises made to David in 2 Samuel 7, where God assures him of an enduring dynasty. Prophetically, this foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who embodies divine majesty and whose kingdom is eternal. The bestowal of such attributes on the king serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the honor He grants to those who serve Him faithfully.

For You grant him blessings forever;
This phrase highlights the eternal nature of God's blessings. In the context of Psalm 21, King David is expressing gratitude for the divine favor bestowed upon him. The concept of eternal blessings is consistent with God's covenant promises to David, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:16, where God promises that David's house and kingdom will endure forever. This eternal aspect can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the eternal reign of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David, whose kingdom is everlasting (Luke 1:32-33). The idea of blessings "forever" emphasizes the unchanging and perpetual nature of God's favor, which is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms and the broader biblical narrative.

You cheer him with joy in Your presence.
The joy mentioned here is deeply connected to being in the presence of God. In the Old Testament, the presence of God is often associated with the Ark of the Covenant and the Temple, where God's glory dwelled among His people (Exodus 25:22, 1 Kings 8:10-11). This joy is not merely a fleeting emotion but a profound sense of fulfillment and peace that comes from communion with God. In the New Testament, this joy is further understood through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who brings believers into the presence of God (Romans 14:17, Galatians 5:22). The joy in God's presence is also a foretaste of the eternal joy believers will experience in heaven, as described in Revelation 21:3-4, where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more sorrow or pain. This phrase underscores the transformative power of God's presence, which brings true and lasting joy.

For the king trusts in the LORD;
The king's trust in the LORD reflects a central theme in the Psalms, where reliance on God is portrayed as the foundation of strength and success. This trust is not merely a passive belief but an active dependence on God's guidance and protection. Historically, kings of Israel, such as David, were expected to lead with a heart aligned with God's will, as seen in 1 Samuel 13:14, where David is described as a man after God's own heart. The king's trust signifies a covenant relationship, where the king acknowledges God's sovereignty and seeks His wisdom, much like Solomon's request for wisdom in 1 Kings 3:9. This trust is also prophetic, pointing to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, who perfectly trusted in the Father, as seen in John 5:19.

through the loving devotion of the Most High,
The phrase "loving devotion" translates the Hebrew word "chesed," which encompasses God's steadfast love, mercy, and faithfulness. This covenantal love is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, highlighting God's unwavering commitment to His people. The title "Most High" emphasizes God's supreme authority and power, a term used in Genesis 14:18-20 when Melchizedek blesses Abram. This loving devotion assures the king of God's continual support and favor, reminiscent of God's promises to David in 2 Samuel 7:15-16, where God assures David of His enduring love and the establishment of his throne. This devotion is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, whose life and sacrifice embody God's chesed, as seen in Romans 5:8.

he will not be shaken.
The assurance that the king "will not be shaken" speaks to the stability and security found in God's protection. This imagery of being unshakable is common in the Psalms, such as Psalm 16:8, where David declares he will not be moved because the LORD is at his right hand. In a historical context, the stability of a king's reign was often threatened by external enemies and internal strife, yet the king who trusts in God is promised divine stability. This promise is both immediate and eschatological, pointing to the eternal reign of Christ, the unshakable King, as prophesied in Daniel 7:14 and affirmed in Hebrews 12:28, where believers receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken.

Your hand will apprehend all Your enemies;
This phrase emphasizes the power and authority of God in dealing with His adversaries. In biblical context, the "hand" often symbolizes strength and action. The imagery of God's hand apprehending enemies suggests divine intervention and justice. Historically, kings and rulers were seen as God's representatives on earth, and their victories were attributed to divine support. This reflects the belief that God actively participates in the affairs of the world, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled. Theologically, this can be connected to the ultimate victory of God over evil, as seen in Revelation 19:11-21, where Christ triumphs over His foes.

Your right hand will seize those who hate You.
The "right hand" is a symbol of power and favor in biblical literature. It signifies the might and authority of God to execute judgment. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the right hand was associated with skill and strength, often used in battle. This phrase underscores the certainty of God's judgment against those who oppose Him. It also reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God acts as a protector and avenger. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who is seated at the right hand of God (Hebrews 1:3) and will ultimately judge the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1). The assurance of divine justice provides comfort to believers, affirming that God will address all wrongs in His perfect timing.

You will place them in a fiery furnace at the time of Your appearing.
This phrase evokes imagery of divine judgment and purification. The "fiery furnace" is reminiscent of the furnace in Daniel 3, where Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown but not consumed, symbolizing God's protection over the faithful and His power over judgment. The "time of Your appearing" suggests an eschatological event, pointing to the Day of the Lord, a time of reckoning and fulfillment of divine justice. This aligns with New Testament themes in 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8, where Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire, dealing out retribution. The furnace symbolizes both judgment and purification, a common biblical motif where fire refines and purifies (Malachi 3:2-3).

In His wrath the LORD will engulf them,
The wrath of the LORD is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, representing His righteous anger against sin and injustice. This phrase underscores the seriousness of divine judgment. The engulfing nature of God's wrath can be seen in historical events such as the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) and the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12), where God's power and judgment were visibly demonstrated. Theologically, this reflects God's holiness and justice, which cannot tolerate sin. It also serves as a warning to the unrepentant, emphasizing the need for repentance and faithfulness.

and the fire will consume them.
Fire as a consuming force is a powerful biblical image of judgment. In the Old Testament, fire often signifies God's presence and judgment, as seen in the burning bush (Exodus 3) and Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18). The consuming fire represents total destruction of the wicked, as seen in Isaiah 66:15-16, where the LORD comes with fire to execute judgment. This phrase also connects to the New Testament, where eternal fire is a metaphor for final judgment (Matthew 25:41). The consuming nature of fire highlights the completeness of God's judgment, leaving nothing unaddressed. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of rejecting God's authority and grace.

You will wipe their descendants from the earth
This phrase reflects the theme of divine justice and retribution against the enemies of God and His anointed king. In the context of ancient Israel, the eradication of one's lineage was seen as a complete and utter defeat, as family lines were crucial for inheritance and legacy. This echoes the covenantal promises where God protects His people and punishes those who oppose them. Theologically, it underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to execute judgment. This can be connected to the broader biblical narrative where God promises to protect His chosen people and eliminate those who stand against His purposes, as seen in the stories of the Canaanites in Joshua or the Amalekites in 1 Samuel.

and their offspring from the sons of men
The mention of "offspring" emphasizes the totality of the judgment, extending beyond the immediate generation to future ones. This reflects the biblical principle of generational consequences for sin, as seen in Exodus 20:5, where God speaks of visiting "the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generation." Culturally, this would have been understood as a severe punishment, as family and lineage were central to identity and survival in the ancient Near East. This phrase also highlights the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, a common theme in the Psalms, where the wicked are ultimately cut off from the community of God's people. In a typological sense, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, where the enemies of God are finally defeated, as depicted in Revelation.

Though they intend You harm
This phrase reflects the opposition faced by the anointed king, often seen as a type of Christ. Throughout biblical history, God's chosen leaders, including David, faced adversaries who plotted against them. This mirrors the spiritual warfare against God's purposes, as seen in Ephesians 6:12, where believers are reminded of the unseen battle against spiritual forces. The intent to harm God's anointed is a recurring theme, as seen in the life of Jesus, where religious leaders plotted against Him (Matthew 26:3-4).

the schemes they devise
The word "schemes" suggests deliberate and cunning plans, often associated with the wicked. In the biblical context, this can be linked to the various plots against Israel and its leaders, such as those by the Philistines or other neighboring nations. Proverbs 19:21 reminds us that many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. This highlights the futility of opposing God's will, as seen in the story of Joseph, where his brothers' harmful intentions were used by God for good (Genesis 50:20).

will not prevail
This assurance of divine protection and victory is a central theme in the Psalms. It underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people. Historically, Israel experienced numerous threats, yet God's promises ensured their survival and success. This phrase also points to the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, as prophesied in Genesis 3:15 and fulfilled in the resurrection. The assurance that evil will not prevail is a source of hope for believers, as echoed in Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"

For You will put them to flight
This phrase indicates divine intervention and victory over enemies. In biblical context, God often fights on behalf of His people, as seen in battles throughout the Old Testament, such as the defeat of the Egyptians at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:27-28). The imagery of putting enemies to flight suggests a complete and overwhelming victory, emphasizing God's power and sovereignty. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of divine kingship, where the king's success in battle was attributed to the favor of their deity.

when Your bow is trained upon them
The bow is a symbol of God's judgment and might. In ancient warfare, the bow was a crucial weapon, representing precision and strength. This imagery is used elsewhere in Scripture, such as in Habakkuk 3:9, where God's bow is prepared for battle. The phrase suggests that God is actively engaged in the conflict, ensuring the defeat of His enemies. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, who will ultimately defeat all evil, as prophesied in Revelation 19:11-16, where Christ is depicted as a warrior king. The focus on God's direct action underscores His role as the ultimate protector and deliverer of His people.

Be exalted, O LORD, in Your strength;
This phrase calls for the elevation and glorification of the LORD, emphasizing His strength. The term "exalted" suggests lifting up or magnifying, which is a common theme in the Psalms, reflecting the desire to honor God above all else. The strength of the LORD is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, often associated with His ability to deliver and protect His people, as seen in Exodus 15:2 and Isaiah 12:2. The historical context of this psalm, attributed to David, may reflect a time of military victory, where God's strength was visibly demonstrated. Theologically, this strength is not just physical might but also encompasses His sovereign power and authority over creation, as seen in Genesis 1 and throughout the prophetic literature.

we will sing and praise Your power.
The response to God's exaltation and strength is communal worship, expressed through singing and praise. This reflects the cultural practice of using music and song as a means of worship, deeply rooted in Israelite tradition, as seen in the use of the Psalms in temple worship. The act of singing is not merely a ritual but an expression of heartfelt gratitude and acknowledgment of God's power. This power is not only seen in acts of deliverance but also in the sustaining and governing of the universe, as noted in passages like Colossians 1:16-17. The phrase also points forward to the New Testament, where the ultimate demonstration of God's power is seen in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a fulfillment of the messianic hope that David often alludes to in his psalms. The communal aspect of this praise underscores the importance of corporate worship in the life of believers, a practice that continues in Christian communities today.