Old Testament

Psalms 110:1

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

The LORD said to my Lord, 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.'

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

What Psalms 110:1 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God speaks to someone referred to as 'my Lord,' indicating a special relationship. The phrase 'Sit at my right hand' signifies a position of honor and authority, suggesting that this person will reign alongside God. The mention of making enemies a 'footstool' implies that God will ultimately defeat all opposition to this Lord. This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy about the Messiah, who Christians believe is Jesus Christ. It highlights the divine authority given to Him and the assurance that all adversaries will be subdued. The imagery of a footstool suggests complete victory and dominance over enemies, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's plan for justice and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

How to apply Psalms 110:1 to your life

This verse encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate authority and plan. It reminds us that despite current struggles, God is in control and will bring justice. We can find comfort in knowing that our challenges are temporary and that God will ultimately prevail over all opposition.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the king setting the royal crown on the head of Esther as she kneels before his throne, while the court looks on

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Esther

Rows of uncovered stone walls on the mound at Tel Shiloh, with no modern buildings in view.

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shiloh

Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 110:1

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Psalms 110:1

At a Glance — the Book of Psalms

Author
David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written
Around 1000-500 BC
Genre
Poetry and worship
Original Audience
Worshipers of Israel

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 110:1 mean?

Psalms 110:1 expresses a conversation between God and a figure referred to as 'my Lord,' indicating a position of honor and authority. It suggests that this figure will reign alongside God and that God will defeat all enemies.

What is the significance of 'Sit at my right hand' in Psalms 110:1?

The phrase 'Sit at my right hand' signifies a position of power and honor, indicating that the person addressed will share in God's authority and reign over all creation.

Who is referred to as 'my Lord' in Psalms 110:1?

The term 'my Lord' in Psalms 110:1 is often interpreted as a reference to the Messiah, which Christians believe is Jesus Christ, highlighting His divine authority.

What does 'make your enemies your footstool' mean in this verse?

The phrase 'make your enemies your footstool' implies that God will completely defeat and subdue all opposition to this Lord, symbolizing total victory and dominance.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.