Psalm 33:16

16 A king does not win because of his powerful army; ¹ a soldier does not triumph because of his strength.

Psalm 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.

Psalm 33:16 In-Context

14 From where he rules, he looks down on all who live on earth.

15 He forms all their thoughts and knows everything they do.

16 A king does not win because of his powerful army; a soldier does not triumph because of his strength.

17 War horses are useless for victory; their great strength cannot save.

18 The Lord watches over those who obey him, those who trust in his constant love.

Cross References

• 1. +233.16Jude 9.7;1 Maccabees 3.19.