Old Testament

Psalms 118:11

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

They surrounded me, yes, they surrounded me, but in the name of the LORD I will destroy them.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

They compassed me about; yea, they compassed me about: but in the name of the LORD I will destroy them.

What Psalms 118:11 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist expresses a feeling of being surrounded by enemies or adversaries. The repetition emphasizes the intensity of the situation, highlighting the overwhelming nature of the threat. However, the psalmist finds strength and confidence in the name of the LORD, indicating a reliance on divine power rather than personal strength. The phrase 'I will destroy them' reflects a declaration of victory, suggesting that with God's help, the psalmist believes they can overcome their challenges. This verse serves as a reminder that, despite feeling outnumbered or overwhelmed, faith in God can provide the courage and strength needed to face adversities. It illustrates the theme of divine protection and the assurance that God is a powerful ally in times of trouble.

How to apply Psalms 118:11 to your life

When facing overwhelming challenges or feeling surrounded by difficulties, remember to turn to God for strength and guidance. Trust in His power to help you overcome obstacles. This verse encourages believers to rely on their faith and seek divine assistance in tough times.

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 Naomi weeping between her daughters-in-law Ruth and Orpah outside a house in Moab

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)

Meet the people of the Bible

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

Ruth

Panoramic view across Tel Beer Sheva archaeological site and surrounding landscape.

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.

Beersheba

Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.

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 118:11

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 118:11

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 118:11 mean?

Psalms 118:11 expresses the psalmist's feeling of being surrounded by enemies, emphasizing the intensity of the threat. Despite this, the psalmist declares confidence in God's power to overcome these challenges.

What is the significance of 'in the name of the LORD' in Psalms 118:11?

The phrase 'in the name of the LORD' signifies reliance on God's authority and strength rather than personal ability. It highlights the belief that divine intervention is crucial for overcoming adversities.

What does the repetition in Psalms 118:11 indicate?

The repetition of 'they surrounded me' in Psalms 118:11 emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the psalmist's situation, illustrating the intensity of feeling besieged by enemies.

How can Psalms 118:11 be applied in daily life?

Psalms 118:11 encourages individuals to seek God's strength when facing overwhelming challenges. It serves as a reminder to trust in divine assistance during tough times.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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