Psalms 18:34

Old Testament Poetry/Hymns ASV (1901)

What does Psalms 18:34 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “He teacheth my hands to war; So that mine arms do bend a bow of brass.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

He teacheth my hands to war; So that mine arms do bend a bow of brass.
Psalms 18:34 — American Standard Version

Context — Psalms 18

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
34He teacheth my hands to war; So that mine arms do bend a bow of brass.

What do historical commentaries say?

Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“He teacheth my hands to war - Compare Psalms 144:1. The skill which David had in the use of the bow, the sword, or the spear - all of which depends on the hands - he ascribes entirely to God. So that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms - This is mentioned as an instance of extraordinary strength, as if he were able to break a bow made of metal. The original word rendered steel means properly brass. Wood was doubtless first used in constructing the bow, but metals came afterward to be employed, and brass would naturally be used before the manufacture of steel was discovered. Rosenmuller in loc. return to 'Top of Page'”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“teacheth: Psa 144:1; Sa2 22:36; Isa 28:6, Isa 45:1 so that: Psa 46:9; Jer 49:35; Hos 1:5 Psalms 18:35”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification