Psalms 18:35 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God's salvation shields the psalmist; his hand supports him, and his kindness elevates him.
The Context of Psalms 18:35
The pivot from God's protective and military aid to his gentleness and graciousness.
What Does Psalms 18:35 Mean?
'Shield of thy salvation' is protection itself—not just a physical shield but the security of knowing one is saved. 'Thy right hand hath holden me up'—God's hand grips the psalmist, preventing him from falling. This is personal contact, not distant blessing.
'Thy gentleness hath made me great' is the surprising culmination. Not harshness or trial, but God's kindness builds the psalmist up. This redefinition of greatness—not by conquest but by kindness—reframes the entire psalm.
Psalms 18:35 in the Original Language
gentleness (עֲנוּת, anut) — humility, meekness, condescension; here, God's humble kindness and grace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 18:35
What does Psalms 18:35 mean?
God's salvation shields the psalmist; his hand supports him, and his kindness elevates him.
What is the context of Psalms 18:35?
The pivot from God's protective and military aid to his gentleness and graciousness.