Old Testament

Psalms 21:3

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

For you met him with the blessings of goodness; you set a crown of pure gold on his head.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head.

What Psalms 21:3 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist expresses gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon a king, likely referring to King David. The phrase "you met him with the blessings of goodness" suggests that God actively provides support and favor, ensuring the king's success and well-being. The imagery of a "crown of pure gold" symbolizes honor, authority, and divine approval. This verse highlights the relationship between God and the leader, emphasizing that true success comes from divine blessing rather than mere human effort. It reassures believers that God is involved in their lives, granting them favor and recognition when they align with His will. The blessings mentioned are not just material but encompass spiritual and moral goodness, indicating that a leader's strength is rooted in righteousness and divine favor. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's blessings in leadership and life, acknowledging that all good things come from Him.

How to apply Psalms 21:3 to your life

This verse encourages us to seek God's blessings in our endeavors, recognizing that true success comes from Him. Whether in leadership or personal goals, we should strive for righteousness and align our actions with God's will, trusting in His provision and favor.

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 Israelites enslaved in Egypt

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)

Meet the people of the Bible

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

Moses

Walls uncovered by archaeologists on the mound of Tell es-Sultan, with palm trees in the distance.

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, 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.

Jericho

The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.

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 21:3

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 21:3

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 21:3 mean?

Psalms 21:3 expresses gratitude for God's blessings given to a king, likely King David. It highlights that true success and honor come from divine favor, symbolized by the crown of pure gold.

What is the significance of the crown of pure gold in Psalms 21:3?

The crown of pure gold in Psalms 21:3 symbolizes honor, authority, and divine approval. It represents the recognition and blessings that come from God, emphasizing the importance of righteousness in leadership.

What does 'blessings of goodness' refer to in Psalms 21:3?

The 'blessings of goodness' in Psalms 21:3 refer to the support and favor God provides, ensuring the king's success and well-being. This phrase indicates that God's blessings encompass both material and spiritual goodness.

How can Psalms 21:3 be applied to leadership today?

Psalms 21:3 encourages leaders to seek God's blessings in their roles, reminding them that true success comes from aligning their actions with God's will and striving for righteousness.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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