Psalms 118:15 Meaning & Explanation (with Related Verses)

“The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the Lord doeth valiantly.”

– King James Version (KJV)


“The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous; the right hand of the Lord does valiantly.”

– Amplified (AMP)


“The joyful sound of victory rings out in the camp of the godly; the strong, mighty hand of God has triumphed!”

– The Message Bible (MSG)


Psalms 118:15 Meaning

When we turn our attention to Psalms 118:15, we see a powerful verse that paints a vivid image of joy and victory. The psalmist speaks of the “voice of rejoicing and salvation,” suggesting that there is a celebration happening among the righteous. This celebration is not one rooted in earthly circumstances or achievements but rather in spiritual triumphs and the goodness of God.

The “tabernacles of the righteous” refers to dwelling places, symbolizing where God’s people gather for worship and fellowship. It is in these sacred spaces that we hear the sound of rejoicing. This rejoicing embodies the hope and assurance we have in God’s salvation. The phrase “the right hand of the Lord doeth valiantly” signifies His strong and powerful act of deliverance. God’s right hand represents His strength, authority, and ability to save and protect His people. When He acts, He does so with might, showcasing His superior power over all situations.

This verse reminds us that our joy in the Lord should be a reflective response to His greatness and mercy. Even in challenging times, we can find reasons to rejoice because God is with us, and His right hand has the power to deliver us from our troubles. The rhythmic contrast between joy and salvation spoken of in the psalm imprints upon our hearts a vital truth: that joy and salvation go hand in hand. This complexity is a reminder that our emotions can transcend our immediate circumstances when we focus on God’s promises and His faithfulness.

Psalms 118 is a call to recognize God’s steadfast love. It encourages us to choose joy, to rejoice not just in spite of our circumstances, but because of the unwavering goodness of God. In moments when we feel overwhelmed or distressed, let us remember the joy that comes from our salvation, which is firmly held in God’s capable hands.

Popular Words of Wisdom From Psalms 118:15


“This verse beautifully illustrates the celebration that occurs among God’s people. In every season, joy can be found when we remember the mighty works of our God, who saves and sustains us.” – Pastor John Piper


“We are reminded through this verse that true joy stems from recognizing God’s salvation. Each day, as we walk in faith, the victorious hand of God is at work in our lives, worthy of our rejoicing.” – Rev. Joyce Meyer


“Joy should be the hallmark of the believer’s life. When we grasp the magnitude of salvation, our hearts respond with rejoicing. God’s might and power are reasons to celebrate every day!” – Dr. Tony Evans


Psalms 118:15 Context Explained

To truly understand the richness of Psalms 118:15, we should reflect on its context. This psalm was likely written during a time of national distress, where the psalmist appointed a heart of gratitude and praise to God despite adversities. The larger narrative of Psalms 118 speaks of trials and struggles but is ultimately a proclamation of God’s faithful deliverance.

The background of Israel’s history is critical here. Israel experienced numerous challenges, from oppressions by enemies to internal strife. Yet, through every obstacle, God’s unfailing love remained a constant theme. As believers today, we find encouragement in these ancient words because they echo our own experiences. Like the Israelites, we encounter harsh seasons, but it is during these times that we should lean more heavily into God’s promises.

The psalm’s opening verses speak of giving thanks to the Lord, emphasizing the importance of gratitude in cultivating an attitude of joy. The assurance that “the right hand of the Lord does valiantly” speaks volumes about God’s ability to intervene and change our circumstances. To rejoice in the Lord is a choice we make, regardless of what life throws our way.

Connecting back to Psalms 118:15, we are reminded that even in dark times, there is a powerful voice of joyful victory within the community of believers. We are invited to be part of that celebration, which becomes a witness to those around us. It says that even in hardship, we can find our strength in the Lord who brings salvation. Thus, it’s important to be surrounded by community as we learn to express our joy, just as the righteous did long ago.

Psalms 118:15 Key Parts Explained

Several key parts of Psalms 118:15 stand out. Firstly, we encounter the phrase “the voice of rejoicing,” which highlights the collective response of God’s people in worship and celebration. When we come together in faith, our joyous voices rise above despair. The community element suggests we are never alone in experiencing God’s goodness; rather, we share in it collectively, giving strength and encouragement to one another.

Another essential part is “the tabernacles of the righteous.” This speaks of God’s dwelling place among His people. What does it mean to have a shared space filled with joy? It means that when we gather, we create an environment where the presence of God thrives. Our focus shifts toward what He has done, and the organic resistance against negativity takes root. Let us take time to gather and experience that “sound” together.

Next, we consider “the right hand of the Lord.” This powerful imagery calls forth thoughts of strength, action, and intervention. When life feels overwhelming, it is pivotal to remember that God’s mighty hand is ready to support us. He does not abandon us in our difficult moments but acts with power and might surprisingly and lovingly. His ability to conquer our challenges is a declaration to be made known to all, forming a testimony of faith in works.

Lastly, the word “valiant” itself conveys courage and determination in the struggle. We are called not just to receive joy and salvation passively, but to actively acknowledge our God who fights for us. This should evoke within us a sense of responsibility as believers to counter despair by sharing our testimonies, leading others toward Him, who indeed brings victory. It is about accountability and proclaiming the goodness of God to ourselves and to those around us.

Lessons to Learn From Psalms 118:15

Joy in Community

From Psalms 118:15, one major lesson is the importance of joy experienced within community. Harvesting joy in our lives is often magnified when shared with others. When we come together during worship and fellowship, we bolster one another’s faith and create a joyous atmosphere conducive to praising God. Remembering that joy can be a collective experience encourages us to gather, which can also deepen our relationships.

The Power of Salvation

We learn that salvation is a powerful gift worth rejoicing in. Our salvation not only brings us eternal life but equips us to face each day with courage and hope. It is within this gift that we derive our confidence and resilience in challenging times. By recognizing and reflecting on the depth of this truth, we fortify our spirits in the face of life’s uncertainties.

The God Who Acts Valiantly

This verse teaches that God actively intervenes in our lives with power. This truth reassures us that we do not walk alone. In moments of struggle, we can call upon God, trusting Him to act on behalf of His people. We can wait on Him and anticipate His response, reassured that His “right hand” always works for our good. This understanding can inspire us to share our needs and prayers with others, fostering deeper bonds of trust and reliance on God’s provision among us.

Psalms 118:15 Related Verses

“For the Lord your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.”– Deuteronomy 20:4

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!”– 1 Corinthians 15:57

“The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.”– Exodus 15:2

“You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness.”– Psalms 30:11

“In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”– Psalms 16:11

Final Thoughts

This can be a powerful reminder for us to cultivate a lifelong attitude of praise, even amidst challenges we face. We must keep in mind that our joy is ultimately rooted in God’s salvation and His mighty deeds, which warrant our continual celebration together as one united body of believers. Each of us carries the responsibility to proclaim what God has done in our lives and to encourage others to rejoice in their salvations as well.

As we consider the significance of Psalms 118:15, let’s encourage one another to hold on to hope in every circumstance, leaning into the promises of God that assure us of His unwavering support. As we rejoice together and give honor to God in our lives, we reflect the love and truth He has bestowed upon us. We invite the Lord’s power to manifest alongside our shared joys because in Jesus, we have security and a reason to celebrate—always.

If you are encouraged by this and wish to learn more, consider exploring additional topics that enrich your faith journey. There is a wide range of subjects available, from Bible verses about deception in the last days to Bible verses about becoming a better person. Each one offers a fresh perspective on the challenges we face and how God’s Word guides us through them.