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Psalm 136 – A Detailed Explanation

 


Psalm 136 – A Detailed Explanation

Introduction to Psalm 136

Psalm 136 is often referred to as "The Great Hallel" (Great Praise), a majestic hymn of thanksgiving that repeatedly emphasizes the steadfast love of God. This psalm is distinctive for its recurring refrain, “for His steadfast love endures forever,” which appears in every one of its 26 verses. This repetition serves as both a liturgical device and a theological declaration, affirming God’s enduring faithfulness throughout history.

While the psalm does not name an author, Jewish tradition often attributes it, along with many others, to David. It appears to have been used in public worship, possibly in antiphonal (responsive) fashion, where a leader would declare the first part of the verse and the congregation or a choir would respond with the refrain.

Let’s explore Psalm 136 verse by verse, identifying its structure, themes, and theological richness.

Structure of Psalm 136

Psalm 136 can be divided into four major sections, each serving a distinct purpose:

  1. Verses 1–3: A general call to give thanks to God.

  2. Verses 4–9: Praise for God’s creative work in nature.

  3. Verses 10–22: Remembrance of God's redemptive acts in Israel’s history.

  4. Verses 23–26: Personal and communal acknowledgment of God's ongoing provision.

The constant refrain acts as the unifying thread, binding the psalm together and reinforcing the central message: God's covenant love is eternal.

Verses 1–3: A Call to Give Thanks

1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
2 Give thanks to the God of gods,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

These opening verses establish the tone and theme of the psalm. They call the worshiper to give thanks to God based on His nature and supremacy:

  • “The LORD” (Yahweh) – God’s personal covenant name, emphasizing His relationship with Israel.

  • “God of gods” – Declares His absolute supremacy over all other spiritual beings or supposed deities.

  • “Lord of lords” – Affirms His dominion over all human rulers.

Each verse ends with the refrain, highlighting that all of God’s actions and attributes are rooted in His enduring love.

Verses 4–9: God the Creator

4 To him who alone does great wonders,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
5 To him who by understanding made the heavens,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
6 To him who spread out the earth above the waters,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
7 To him who made the great lights,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
8 The sun to rule over the day,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
9 The moon and stars to rule over the night,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

This section transitions to praise for God’s creative power, echoing themes found in Genesis 1. Each element of creation is attributed to God's wisdom and purpose.

  • Great wonders – Not merely acts of power but also beauty and design.

  • Heavens and earth – Remind us of God’s ordered creation, which sustains life.

  • Sun, moon, and stars – Not only natural marvels but signs of God's providence and timing.

These acts of creation are not just scientific or aesthetic marvels—they are expressions of divine love. The repeating refrain insists that creation itself is a gift of love.

Verses 10–22: God the Redeemer and Protector

This is the largest section of the psalm, recounting Israel's salvation history—from the Exodus to the conquest of the Promised Land.

10 To him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
11 And brought Israel out from among them,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
12 With a strong hand and an outstretched arm,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
13 To him who divided the Red Sea in two,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
14 And made Israel pass through the midst of it,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
15 But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
16 To him who led his people through the wilderness,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

Here, God's deliverance from Egypt is remembered. The plagues, the crossing of the Red Sea, and the defeat of Pharaoh are all evidence of His saving love.

17 To him who struck down great kings,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
18 And killed mighty kings,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
19 Sihon, king of the Amorites,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
20 And Og, king of Bashan,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
21 And gave their land as a heritage,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
22 A heritage to Israel his servant,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

These verses speak to God’s victories over Israel’s enemies and His gift of the land to His people. Each action is cast as an outworking of His eternal love.

Interestingly, some modern readers might struggle with references to judgment and conquest being tied to "love." Yet, from the biblical perspective, God's justice and mercy are not in conflict. His love for Israel involved defending and preserving them, even if that meant judging opposing nations.

Verses 23–26: God’s Present Mercy and Provision

23 It is he who remembered us in our low estate,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
24 And rescued us from our foes,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
25 He who gives food to all flesh,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
26 Give thanks to the God of heaven,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

The psalm closes with a shift from historical to present and universal mercies:

  • God remembers the lowly and rescues the oppressed.

  • He provides for all living creatures, not just Israel.

  • The final call to give thanks reaffirms the opening theme.

This shows that God's love is not just ancient history; it is active today. He is not only the God of grand miracles but also of daily bread.

Theological Themes in Psalm 136

1. Steadfast Love (Hebrew: chesed)

The Hebrew word chesed is rich and multifaceted. It means covenant love, loyalty, mercy, and kindness. This isn’t fickle love—it’s faithful, long-suffering, and deeply committed.

Psalm 136 essentially defines God's love as:

  • Unchanging: Regardless of time or human faithlessness.

  • Covenantal: Rooted in God’s promises.

  • Manifested through action: Not just a feeling, but evident in creation, redemption, and provision.

2. God’s Sovereignty

Throughout the psalm, God is portrayed as absolutely sovereign—over nature, nations, kings, and time. His supremacy is not only a theological truth but also a comfort: He is in control, and He is good.

3. History as Theology

Psalm 136 doesn’t recount history for its own sake. It tells a theological story—of a God who acts lovingly in time and space. The past becomes a mirror for understanding the present.

4. Worship Through Repetition

The repetitive refrain is not mindless redundancy but a liturgical meditation, driving home the core truth. In worship, repetition is a tool for memory, reflection, and communal unity.

Liturgical and Communal Use

Psalm 136 was likely used in temple worship, possibly during major festivals such as Passover. The antiphonal style—with a leader calling out the first half of each verse and the congregation responding—would foster participation and remembrance.

In Jewish tradition, Psalm 136 is read during:

  • Passover: Emphasizing God’s deliverance from Egypt.

  • Daily prayers: As part of Hallel, a collection of praise psalms (113–118, and 136).

  • Feasts and festivals: Reflecting on God's provision and redemption.

In Christian liturgy, Psalm 136 is read during Thanksgiving services and often cited in hymns and songs for its themes of enduring love and thankfulness.

Application for Today

Though deeply rooted in ancient Israel's history, Psalm 136 continues to speak powerfully today. Its truths are timeless:

  • Gratitude: We're reminded to give thanks not only for what God has done but for who He is.

  • Faithfulness: In a world of shifting loyalties and broken promises, God’s love endures.

  • Memory: Remembering God’s past faithfulness can sustain us in present trials.

  • Community: Worship is not a solo act; Psalm 136 was designed for the people of God together.

Conclusion

Psalm 136 is more than a history lesson—it is a love song to a faithful God. With poetic repetition, it drills into our hearts the truth that no matter the season, God’s love never fails. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the quiet gift of daily bread, from parting seas to defeating kings, from the ancient past to your present moment—His steadfast love endures forever.

This psalm invites us to live in remembrance, worship in response, and rest in His love. Whether you’re on a mountain or in a valley, Psalm 136 gives voice to a truth that never changes:
“His steadfast love endures forever.”

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