Old Testament
Psalms 149:8
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse from Psalms 149 speaks about the authority and power that God grants to His people.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
to bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;
To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Psalms 149 speaks about the authority and power that God grants to His people. The imagery of binding kings and nobles with chains and iron fetters symbolizes the triumph of God's justice over earthly powers. It suggests that those who oppose God and His people will ultimately be subdued. The context of this psalm is a call to praise God for His victories and the establishment of His kingdom. It emphasizes that God’s people are empowered to execute His judgment and enforce His will on earth. This verse encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and to recognize that He equips them to overcome challenges and adversaries. The chains and fetters represent not just physical restraint but also spiritual authority, indicating that God’s people can stand firm against evil and injustice. Overall, this verse reassures believers of their role in God's plan and the ultimate victory of His kingdom over all opposition.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 149:8 to your life
In our daily lives, we can take comfort in knowing that God empowers us to stand against injustice and evil. We should seek His guidance and strength to confront challenges, trusting that He equips us to overcome obstacles and fulfill His purposes.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 149:8 mean?
Psalms 149:8 speaks about the authority given to God's people to overcome earthly powers. The verse uses the imagery of binding kings and nobles to illustrate God's justice prevailing over those who oppose Him.
What is the significance of chains and fetters in Psalms 149:8?
The chains and fetters in Psalms 149:8 symbolize the spiritual authority and power that God grants to His people. They represent the ability to confront and subdue evil and injustice in the world.
How can we apply Psalms 149:8 in our lives?
We can apply Psalms 149:8 by seeking God's strength to confront challenges and injustices we face. It reminds us that we are equipped to stand firm against evil and fulfill God's purposes.
What themes are present in Psalms 149:8?
Key themes in Psalms 149:8 include divine authority, victory over evil, God's justice, the empowerment of believers, and the concept of spiritual warfare.

The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
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