Middle Chapter in the Bible (Psalm 117 or 118)
Quick Summary
The middle chapter of the Bible is often identified as Psalm 117 or Psalm 118, depending on how the chapters are counted. Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in Scripture, while Psalm 118 follows immediately and contains the verse many call the “center” of the Bible—Psalm 118:8. Together, these two psalms form the hinge of the Bible’s 1,189 chapters, standing at the heart of both its structure and its message.
How the Middle Is Counted
The Bible includes 1,189 chapters in most English translations. That means the middle chapter would be number 595. Counting forward, Psalm 117 holds that spot. Since Psalm 117 contains only two verses, some traditions also consider Psalm 118 part of the midpoint, especially because of its central theme of trust.
The math may vary slightly depending on translation or tradition, but the message remains consistent: at the Bible’s center, we find a call to worship and a declaration of trust. Psalm 117 gathers all nations in praise, and Psalm 118 calls every heart to take refuge in the Lord.
Psalm 117: The Center of Praise
Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible and one of its most inclusive. It begins:
“Praise the Lord, all you nations! Extol him, all you peoples!” (Psalm 117:1)
In two brief verses, the psalm calls every nation and language to join in worship. It announces that God’s steadfast love and faithfulness endure forever—a truth that anticipates the gospel reaching beyond Israel to the whole world. Its brevity does not diminish its power; instead, it distills the essence of praise.
Psalm 118: The Center of Trust
Immediately following, Psalm 118 opens with thanksgiving and trust. It is the psalm that contains what many call the Bible’s middle verse:
“It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to put confidence in mortals.” (Psalm 118:8)
The psalm celebrates deliverance and steadfast love. It was likely sung during public worship in Jerusalem, reminding worshippers that God’s faithfulness, not human strength, is their security. The psalm begins and ends with the same refrain: “O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever.” That repetition becomes the steady heartbeat of faith.
The Symbolism of the Center
Whether Psalm 117 or 118 holds the technical midpoint, both carry the theological center of Scripture. Psalm 117’s universal call to praise and Psalm 118’s personal declaration of trust summarize the story of salvation: God’s love reaches the world, and refuge is found only in him.
The structure of these psalms even mirrors the rhythm of faith itself—praise leading to trust, and trust returning to praise. At the center of the Bible, we find not commands or laws, but an invitation: to worship and to rest in God’s steadfast love.
Middle Chapter: Meaning for Today
At the Bible’s midpoint, we encounter the same truth that anchors the beginning and the end: God’s love endures forever. The center of Scripture reminds us where our own center should be—fixed on the faithfulness of God.
Reading Psalm 117 and Psalm 118 together offers a perfect balance for daily devotion. One calls us outward to worship; the other calls us inward to trust. Both point toward a faith that stands firm through every season.
FAQ
What is the middle chapter of the Bible?
Psalm 117 is commonly identified as the middle chapter of the Bible.
Why do some say Psalm 118 is the middle chapter?
Because it follows immediately after Psalm 117 and contains the verse often cited as the Bible’s midpoint (Psalm 118:8).
How many chapters are in the Bible?
Most English Bibles have 1,189 chapters.
What do Psalms 117 and 118 teach together?
Psalm 117 invites all nations to praise God, and Psalm 118 calls every believer to trust him completely.
Why does the center matter?
It reminds us that the heart of Scripture—and of faith—is found in worship and trust.
