Who are the two Lords in psalm 110?

Psalm 110 is one of the most quoted psalms in the New Testament and has intrigued theologians and scholars for centuries due to its rich content and significant implications. It presents a fascinating interplay between two figures referred to as "Lords," generating much debate about their identities and roles. This blog post aims to delve into the meanings behind these two Lords, illuminating their significance in the context of Judeo-Christian theology.

The Text of Psalm 110

Psalm 110 begins with the words, “The Lord said to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’” This opening line features two distinct terms for “Lord.” The first instance, “The Lord,” typically refers to Yahweh, the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, while the second instance, “my Lord,” refers to a figure of great authority, often interpreted as the Messiah. This divergence in terminology sets the stage for the unfolding theological exploration.

The Interpretation of “The Lord”

The first Lord in Psalm 110, often translated as “The Lord” in English versions, is understood to be Yahweh, the God of Israel. This title is sacred and carries the weight of divine sovereignty and power. Yahweh's command for the second Lord to “Sit at my right hand” is an indication of exaltation and authority. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sitting at the right hand of a sovereign ruler signified a position of honor, power, and influence, a role equivalent to the highest rank one could achieve beneath the king.

The Identity of “My Lord”

The second Lord in Psalm 110, referred to as “my Lord,” has been the subject of extensive interpretation. In Jewish tradition, this figure is often seen as the Davidic king or Messiah, who is exalted by God. In the context of the psalm, this “my Lord” can be understood as King David himself, or more broadly, as a prophetic figure foreshadowing the coming of the Messiah.

The New Testament expands on this interpretation, particularly in the Gospels, where Jesus cites this psalm in relation to Himself, emphasizing that He is the fulfillment of the prophecy and the ultimate embodiment of the messianic “my Lord.”

The Messianic Interpretation

The significance of the second Lord extends beyond a historical figure, as many Christian theologians and scholars interpret this “my Lord” as a Christological figure—specifically, Jesus Christ. In the Christian context, this psalm is a declaration of Jesus’ divine authority and His exalted status at the right hand of God after His ascension. In the Book of Hebrews, the author reinforces this connection by referring back to Psalm 110, establishing Jesus as a high priest in the order of Melchizedek—a significant theological link to the mystery and majesty of His nature.

Implications for Understanding Authority

In a time when authority is often a point of contention in both religious and secular spheres, Psalm 110 invites contemplation on the divine authorization of leadership. The passage emphasizes that true power stems from divine appointment rather than human ambition. It propounds the notion that the established order of leadership—whether in the ancient Israelite context or in contemporary application—must be viewed through the lens of divine sovereignty.