Psalms 89:14

Old Testament Poetry/Hymns ASV (1901)

What does Psalms 89:14 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of thy throne: Lovingkindness and truth go before thy face.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of thy throne: Lovingkindness and truth go before thy face.
Psalms 89:14 — American Standard Version

Context — Psalms 89

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
14Righteousness and justice are the foundation of thy throne: Lovingkindness and truth go before thy face.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne, etc.] The seat and throne on which he sits; all the administrations of his kingly power in the government of the world, in the salvation of his people, and in the punishment of his enemies, being according to the strict rules of justice and judgment: or “the preparation of thy throne” f1265; all that the Lord does according to the counsel of his will; and these counsels were of old, and were formed in strict justice and judgment, and were a preparation for his future government in providence and grace: or “the establishment of thy throne” f1266; the throne of an earthly king is established by righteousness; and so the throne of God, and…”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“justice and judgment are the habitation of the throne - Margin, “establishment.” The Hebrew word - מכון mâkôn - means properly a place where one stands; then, a foundation or basis. The idea here is, that the throne of God is founded on justice and right judgment; it is this which supports it; his administration is maintained because it is right. This supposes that there is such a thing as right or justice in itself considered, or in the nature of things, and independently of the will of God; that the divine administration will be conformed to that, and will be firm because it is thus conformed to it. Even omnipotent power could not maintain permanently a throne founded on injustice and…”
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Wesley's Explanatory Notes
John Wesley (1703–1791) · Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament and Old Testament notes · 18th-century historical commentary
“Justice and judgment - Justice in judging. Psalms 89:15”
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Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“89:14-18 God rules wisely over creation. The qualities of righteousness, justice, and faithfulness fit the profile of a wise ruler. The happy people who live under his rule enjoy his protection.”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“Justice: Psa 45:6, Psa 45:7, Psa 97:2, Psa 99:4, Psa 145:17; Deu 32:4; Rev 15:3 habitation: or, establishment, Pro 16:12 mercy: Psa 89:2, Psa 85:13; Joh 1:17 Psalms 89:15”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification