תהלים, פרק פ״ט, פסוק י״ד

God's greatness is absolute and entirely independent, relying on no external forces. When describing His immense power and vast capabilities, physical terms are used purely as allegories [מאירי]. References to an arm point to the upper arm, which serves as the primary source of all movement [מלבי״ם]. God's arm is envisioned as long and outstretched, reaching any place where He desires to perform mighty acts and establish His supremacy over all things [אבן עזרא, מצודת דוד].

This power is uniquely divine. A human king relies on the physical strength of an army to fight his battles, merely inspiring them with courage. God, however, requires no human assistance and fights His battles entirely on His own [אלשיך]. His strength constantly prevails and overcomes any obstacle [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Moreover, human strength is always relative and depends on external factors, but God's might is His very essence. Because everything originates from Him and no other power exists, His strength is not measured against the weakness of others. It is absolute and inherently tied to His being [מלבי״ם].

The imagery of God's power also contrasts the right hand with the left hand, leading to different understandings of how He guides the world. One approach emphasizes complete equality, viewing both hands as identical in their strength and majesty, working together to sustain all of existence [רד״ק].

Another perspective sees the two hands as a representation of God's mastery over both the natural and the supernatural. The left hand symbolizes the fixed laws of nature and the regular systems of the world, while the right hand represents wondrous, miraculous intervention. God's ultimate might is revealed when His right hand overcomes, stops, and rises above His left hand. By overriding the very natural systems He created, He demonstrates absolute control over all of creation [מלבי״ם].

A third approach focuses on God's unity and His different attributes. The left hand hints at strict justice and anger, while the right hand represents mercy. To prevent the misconception that these are two conflicting powers, this view teaches that both stem from a single, unified will. When God chooses to apply strict justice, the attribute of mercy temporarily withdraws and elevates itself, allowing justice to operate without contradiction. Ultimately, these powerful acts of justice cause God's name and His right hand to be exalted and recognized throughout the world, just as they were during the plagues in Egypt [אלשיך].