Psalms 21:3

Authorized King James Version

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

Original Language Analysis

כִּֽי H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's: H3588
Word #: 1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
תְ֭קַדְּמֶנּוּ For thou preventest H6923
תְ֭קַדְּמֶנּוּ For thou preventest
Strong's: H6923
Word #: 2 of 8
to project (one self), i.e., precede; hence, to anticipate, hasten, meet (usually for help)
בִּרְכ֣וֹת him with the blessings H1293
בִּרְכ֣וֹת him with the blessings
Strong's: H1293
Word #: 3 of 8
benediction; by implication prosperity
ט֑וֹב of goodness H2896
ט֑וֹב of goodness
Strong's: H2896
Word #: 4 of 8
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
תָּשִׁ֥ית thou settest H7896
תָּשִׁ֥ית thou settest
Strong's: H7896
Word #: 5 of 8
to place (in a very wide application)
לְ֝רֹאשׁ֗וֹ on his head H7218
לְ֝רֹאשׁ֗וֹ on his head
Strong's: H7218
Word #: 6 of 8
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
עֲטֶ֣רֶת a crown H5850
עֲטֶ֣רֶת a crown
Strong's: H5850
Word #: 7 of 8
a crown
פָּֽז׃ of pure gold H6337
פָּֽז׃ of pure gold
Strong's: H6337
Word #: 8 of 8
pure (gold); hence, gold itself (as refined)

Cross References

2 Samuel 12:30And he took their king's crown from off his head, the weight whereof was a talent of gold with the precious stones: and it was set on David's head. And he brought forth the spoil of the city in great abundance.Ephesians 1:3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:Psalms 59:10The God of my mercy shall prevent me: God shall let me see my desire upon mine enemies.Psalms 31:19Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!1 Chronicles 20:2And David took the crown of their king from off his head, and found it to weigh a talent of gold, and there were precious stones in it; and it was set upon David's head: and he brought also exceeding much spoil out of the city.Hebrews 2:9But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.Romans 11:35Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?Revelation 19:12His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.Psalms 18:18They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay.Job 41:11Who hath prevented me, that I should repay him? whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine.

Analysis & Commentary

The word 'preventest' (KJV) means 'to go before' or 'to anticipate'—God's blessings precede human action, demonstrating prevenient grace. The crown of pure gold symbolizes divine favor and sovereign appointment. From a Reformed perspective, this verse illustrates unconditional election: God's blessings flow from His sovereign choice, not human merit. God initiates, bestows, and establishes—the king receives, not achieves.

Historical Context

The coronation imagery recalls the anointing of Davidic kings. The 'crown of pure gold' signifies both royalty and divine approval. In Solomon's case (1 Kings 1-2), God's choice preceded Solomon's reign, demonstrating sovereign election.

Questions for Reflection