Psalms 118:16-26

16 The right hand of Jehovah is exalted: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly.

17 I shall not die, but live, And declare the works of Jehovah.

18 Jehovah hath chastened me sore; But he hath not given me over unto death.

19 Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will enter into them, I will give thanks unto Jehovah.

20 This is the gate of Jehovah; The righteous shall enter into it.

21 I will give thanks unto thee; for thou hast answered me, And art become my salvation.

22 The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner.

23 This is Jehovah's doing; It is marvellous in our eyes.

24 This is the day which Jehovah hath made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.

25 Save now, we beseech thee, O Jehovah: O Jehovah, we beseech thee, send now prosperity.

26 Blessed be he that cometh in the name of Jehovah: We have blessed you out of the house of Jehovah.

Psalms 118:16-26 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PSALM 118

Kimchi says their Rabbins are divided about this psalm. Some understand it of David; others of the Messiah: but, with us Christians, there ought to be no doubt of its belonging to the Messiah; since our Lord has quoted a passage out of it, and applied it to himself, Ps 118:22,23; see Mt 21:42; and so has the Apostle Peter, Ac 4:11. Nor did the Jews of those times object thereunto, which doubtless they would have done, had the psalm respected any other but the Messiah; yea, the common people that attended Christ when he entered into Jerusalem, and the children in the temple, took their "hosanna" from hence, Ps 118:26; see Mt 21:9,15. It is generally thought to be written by David, after he was established in the kingdom, and had brought the ark of the Lord into the city. It concludes the great "Hallel", or hymn sung at the Jewish festivals; particularly at the feasts of tabernacle and the passover.