Psalms 81:9 Meaning and Explanation
“There shall no strange god be in thee; neither shalt thou worship any strange god.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God demands exclusive worship; no other deity may be honored.
The Context of Psalms 81:9
The covenant demands total, exclusive devotion to God alone.
What Does Psalms 81:9 Mean?
This verse is the core of God's testimony: the first commandment restated in covenant language. 'Strange god' refers to deities outside God's revealed character and the Abrahamic covenant. The twofold statement—'no strange god be in thee' (internal allegiance) and 'neither shalt thou worship' (external practice)—covers both heart and action, private devotion and public ritual.
Exclusivity was radical in the ancient world, where tolerance of multiple gods was common. By forbidding Israel to harbor or worship other gods, God was calling them to a unique, undivided allegiance. This was not intolerance but clarity about covenant: you cannot pledge yourself to God while maintaining other sacred commitments.
Psalms 81:9 in the Original Language
strange god (אֱלוֹהַּ אַחֵר, elohah acher) — literally 'another god,' emphasizing exclusivity as core covenant identity
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 81:9
What does Psalms 81:9 mean?
God demands exclusive worship; no other deity may be honored.
What is the context of Psalms 81:9?
The covenant demands total, exclusive devotion to God alone.