# Right Hand

In the Bible, the words “right hand” are often used to talk about the place of honor on the right side of a ruler or other important person (see: Psalm 110:1; 1 Kings 2:19). The “right hand” is a symbol of power, authority, and strength (see: Psalm 118:15-16). In Bible times, a person placed their right hand on the head of another person when they gave that person a blessing. This was a way of showing special honor to that person (see: Genesis 48:13-20). To be at someone’s right hand can also mean to help someone (see: Psalm 109:31; 110:5).

The Bible describes Jesus as sitting “at the right hand of” God the Father (see: Mark 12:36; 14:62; 16:19; Acts 2:33; Romans 8:34; Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3, 13; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2). That is, God the Father has given Jesus the greatest honor and permission to rule over the church and all creation.

See: [Metaphor](../articles/metaphor.md); [Symbol](../articleas/symbol.md); [God the Father](../articles/godfather.md); [Church](../articles/church.md); [Create (Creation, Creature)](../articles/create.md)