Psalms 33:16

16 There is no king saved by the multitude of a host. A mighty man is not delivered by great strength.

Psalms 33:16 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 33:16

There is no king saved by the multitude of an host
He may be at the head of a numerous army, and yet not get the victory over a lesser one, nor escape safe, but be taken by it: there have been such instances; and if he is saved, or gets the victory, it is not owing to the multitude with him, but to the Lord, that gives salvation to kings, ( Psalms 144:10 ) . Hence it appears that even such men need salvation themselves, and cannot save themselves, though they have ever so many at command, and therefore are not to be trusted in; salvation is only of the Lord;

a mighty man is not delivered by much strength;
as Goliath, with his great strength, could not deliver himself out of the hands of David, a stripling; wherefore the mighty man should not glory in his might.

Psalms 33:16 In-Context

14 From the place of his habitation he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth.

15 He who fashions all of their hearts. He considers all of their works.

16 There is no king saved by the multitude of a host. A mighty man is not delivered by great strength.

17 A horse is a vain thing for safety, Neither does he deliver any by his great power.

18 Behold, the eye of Yahweh is on those who fear him, On those who hope in his lovingkindness;