Psalms 118:21 (KJV) states, "I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation." This verse from the Book of Psalms is a powerful expression of gratitude and thanksgiving to God for His faithfulness and salvation. It conveys a profound sense of trust and reliance on God's grace and mercy, as well as the acknowledgment of His sovereignty and love.

The broader context in which this verse appears is important for understanding its meaning and significance. Psalm 118 is a hymn of thanksgiving and praise, expressing the Israelites' gratitude for God's deliverance and salvation. It is believed to have been composed for use in public worship, particularly during the feast of the Passover. The psalm begins with the exhortation to give thanks to the Lord, for His steadfast love endures forever. It then goes on to recount instances of God's faithfulness and deliverance, culminating in the declaration of praise in verse 21.

The theme of praise and thanksgiving is central to the message of this verse. The psalmist declares his intention to praise God, not just for the sake of it, but because of a specific reason – God has heard him and become his salvation. This expression of thanksgiving is deeply personal and rooted in the psalmist's own experience of God's intervention and deliverance. It reflects a genuine response to God's faithfulness and grace, and serves as a model for believers to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in their relationship with God.

The language used in this verse is significant in conveying its meaning. The psalmist uses the word "praise" to express his devotion and adoration of God. This goes beyond mere acknowledgment of God's goodness, to a heartfelt response of worship and reverence. The psalmist acknowledges that God has indeed heard his prayers and responded to them, which is a cause for celebrating and giving thanks. The phrase "and art become my salvation" reinforces the personal nature of the psalmist's experience, as he recognizes God's saving power in his own life. This sense of intimacy and reliance on God is a recurring theme in the Book of Psalms, as the writers express their deep-seated dependence on God in times of trouble and uncertainty.

The symbolism in this verse is worth exploring as well. The idea of God being the psalmist's salvation carries rich symbolism, as it points to the redemptive work of God in the life of believers. Salvation, in biblical terms, encompasses not just deliverance from external enemies or hardships, but also the restoration of the soul and reconciliation with God. The psalmist's declaration of God as his salvation is a powerful affirmation of God's role as the source of hope and deliverance in his life. It reflects the profound trust and confidence that the psalmist has in God's ability to rescue and redeem him from the perils of this world.

From a broader theological perspective, this verse also echoes the overarching narrative of redemption and salvation in the Bible. The idea of God hearing the cries of His people and coming to their rescue is a recurring motif in the Old Testament. It finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the embodiment of God's salvation for humanity. The New Testament writers often draw on the language and imagery of the Psalms to articulate the message of salvation through Christ.

In conclusion, Psalms 118:21 (KJV) is a powerful expression of gratitude and praise, rooted in the psalmist's personal experience of God's faithfulness and deliverance. It underscores the themes of thanksgiving, devotion, and reliance on God, as well as the symbolism of God being the source of salvation. This verse serves as a poignant reminder for believers to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and trust in their relationship with God, and to give thanks for His enduring love and mercy.