Psalm 118:8

8 [It is] better to take refuge in Yahweh than to trust in humans.

Psalm 118:8 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 118:8

[It is] better to trust in the Lord
This, with what follows in ( Psalms 118:9 ) , is the conclusion from the above premises and experience; it is good to trust in the Lord; such enjoy peace, are in safety, shall not want any good thing, nor ever be ashamed and confounded: the Targum is,

``it is better to trust in the Word of the Lord;''

than to put confidence in man;
it is not good to put confidence in man at all; it is trusting to a broken staff, to a mere shadow, which can yield no support or relief: it is best to trust in the Lord; he is able to help, as well as willing; he is faithful to his word, and unchangeable in his promises; whereas man, though he may have a will to help, oftentimes has it not in his power; and when it is in his power, and has promised it, he disappoints, being changeable or unfaithful. Wherefore trust not in man, but in the Lord; yea, cursed is the man that trusts in man; see ( Jeremiah 17:5 ) .

Psalm 118:8 In-Context

6 Yahweh [is] for me; I do not fear. What can [mere] humans do to me?

7 Yahweh [is] for me as my helper, and [so] I will look [in triumph] on those who hate me.

8 [It is] better to take refuge in Yahweh than to trust in humans.

9 [It is] better to take refuge in Yahweh than to trust princes.

10 All nations surrounded me. In the name of Yahweh I opposed them indeed.

Footnotes

• [a] Or "humankind"