Psalms 89:3 Meaning and Explanation
“I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David my servant,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God has entered into a binding covenant with His chosen servant David, sealed by oath.
The Context of Psalms 89:3
The transition from general praise to the specific promise underlying the psalm: God's covenant with David.
What Does Psalms 89:3 Mean?
A covenant is a solemn, mutual agreement; God's covenant with David emphasizes the seriousness and intention of His promise. The language of oath-swearing, ancient Near East terminology for binding oneself to one's word, underscores the irreversible nature of this commitment.
David is identified not by birth or achievement but by his election as 'my chosen' and his servanthood. This frames the relationship as God's deliberate selection and David's willing submission to divine will.
Psalms 89:3 in the Original Language
berith (בְרִית), 'covenant' — a binding agreement that establishes mutual obligation and defines a relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 89:3
What does Psalms 89:3 mean?
God has entered into a binding covenant with His chosen servant David, sealed by oath.
What is the context of Psalms 89:3?
The transition from general praise to the specific promise underlying the psalm: God's covenant with David.