Psalms 106:48

KJV

Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Blessed {H1288} be the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of Israel {H3478} from everlasting {H5769} to everlasting {H5769}: and let all the people {H5971} say {H559}, Amen {H543}. Praise {H1984} ye the LORD {H3050}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Blessed be ADONAI, the God of Isra'el, from eternity past to eternity future. Now let all the people say, "Amen! Halleluyah!"

Berean Standard Bible

Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Let all the people say, “Amen!” Hallelujah!

American Standard Version

Blessed be Jehovah, the God of Israel, From everlasting even to everlasting. And let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 106:48 serves as a majestic doxology, marking the triumphant conclusion of Book Four of the Psalter. This verse is a profound declaration of the LORD God of Israel's eternal nature and boundless sovereignty, calling for universal and perpetual praise. It encapsulates the enduring faithfulness of God despite humanity's repeated failings, culminating in a powerful affirmation of His worthiness to receive glory from all people, for all time.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 106:48 functions as the formal liturgical conclusion to Book Four of the Psalter (Psalms 90-106). This verse is a classic doxology, a formal expression of praise to God, which serves to punctuate and conclude a major section of the Psalms, much like similar declarations found at the end of other books (e.g., [Psalms 41:13](/psalms/41-13 "Psalms 41:13 - Doxology of Book One") and [Psalms 72:19](/psalms/72-19 "Psalms 72:19 - Doxology of Book Two")). Psalm 106 itself is a historical psalm, recounting Israel's tumultuous journey from the Exodus through their repeated rebellions in the wilderness and the land, highlighting their unfaithfulness and God's persistent mercy and covenant faithfulness. The psalm often laments Israel's sin and the consequences, yet it ultimately ends not in despair over human failure, but with a triumphant declaration of God's unchanging character and a plea for His people to be gathered from the nations. Verse 48, therefore, provides a fitting and necessary shift in focus from human sin back to the unchanging, eternal character of God, upon whom all hope for redemption and restoration rests, framing the entire narrative within the context of divine sovereignty and ultimate praise.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop of Psalm 106 is the long and often tragic history of Israel, marked by their repeated disobedience to the covenant God had established with them, particularly from the time of the Exodus and wilderness wanderings (as detailed in books like [Exodus](/exodus/1 "Exodus - The Deliverance of Israel") and [Numbers](/numbers/1 "Numbers - Israel's Wilderness Journey")) through their settlement in Canaan and subsequent exiles. The psalm recounts specific instances of rebellion (e.g., at the Red Sea, with the golden calf, at Meribah), demonstrating a pattern of human failure contrasted with divine patience and mercy. Culturally, the call for "all the people" to say "Amen" reflects a deeply ingrained practice of communal worship and affirmation within ancient Israelite liturgy. The "Amen" was not merely a passive agreement but an active, vocal declaration of assent, solidarity, and commitment to the truth or prayer just uttered, signifying "so be it" or "truly." This communal response was integral to public worship, binding the congregation together in shared faith and devotion, as seen in instances like the people's response to Ezra's blessing in [Nehemiah 8:6](/nehemiah/8-6 "Nehemiah 8:6 - The People's Amen to Ezra's Blessing").
* **Key Themes:** This concluding doxology powerfully encapsulates several key theological themes woven throughout Psalm 106 and the broader Psalter. First, the declaration "Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting" emphasizes God's **eternal praise and sovereignty**. It acknowledges God's transcendent nature, His unchanging dominion, and His worthiness of praise across all generations, affirming that His reign knows no beginning or end, a concept foundational to biblical theology (cf. [Psalms 90:2](/psalms/90-2 "Psalms 90:2 - God's Eternity")). Second, the phrase "and let all the people say, Amen" underscores the theme of **congregational affirmation and corporate worship**. It highlights the vital role of the community in actively assenting to God's truth and praise, transforming individual faith into a collective declaration. This communal "Amen" signifies a shared commitment and desire for God's will to be established. Finally, the concluding exhortation, "Praise ye the LORD," which is the well-known Hebrew phrase *Hallelujah*, serves as a **universal exhortation to praise**. It is a direct command and invitation for everyone to worship God, reinforcing the central message that despite human failings and historical struggles, God remains eternally worthy of all honor, adoration, and glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Blessed (Hebrew, _baruch_):** The Hebrew word בָּרוּךְ (*baruch*) carries the meaning of "praised," "adored," or "glorified." When applied to God, as it is here, it is not a wish or a command for God to *become* blessed (as if He could be improved), but rather an acclamation and acknowledgment of His inherent glory, goodness, and majesty. It is an expression of worship, declaring Him to be the source of all blessing and worthy of all praise. It reflects a posture of humility and adoration before His divine nature and works.
* **LORD God of Israel (Hebrew, _YHWH Elohei Yisrael_):** "LORD" here is the divine covenant name, יְהוָה (*YHWH*), often transliterated as Yahweh, which emphasizes God's personal, relational, and unchanging faithfulness to His people. Coupled with "God of Israel" (אֱלֹהֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל, *Elohei Yisrael*), it specifically highlights His unique covenant relationship with the nation of Israel, established through their history and His redemptive acts. This title underscores His particular care, protection, and sovereign rule over His chosen people, even in their unfaithfulness, reminding them of His enduring commitment to His promises.
* **Amen (Hebrew, _amen_):** The Hebrew word אָמֵן (*amen*), transliterated directly into English, signifies "so be it," "truly," "let it be established," or "firmly." It is an emphatic affirmation, expressing strong agreement, confirmation, and a desire for the preceding statement or prayer to be realized. In a liturgical context, it serves as a communal declaration of assent, binding the worshippers together in their shared belief and hope.
* **Praise ye the LORD (Hebrew, _Hallelujah_):** This is the iconic Hebrew phrase הַלְלוּיָהּ (*Hallelujah*), a compound of the imperative plural verb הַלְלוּ (*hallu*, "praise ye!") and יָהּ (*Yah*), a shortened poetic form of the divine name *YHWH*. It is a direct, emphatic command or invitation for all people to praise God, serving as a universal call to worship and adoration. Its placement at the very end of the psalm, and indeed the book, underscores its significance as a culminating and perpetual exhortation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel":** This opening phrase is a profound declaration of praise, acknowledging the inherent glory and worthiness of God. It specifically identifies Him by His covenant name, YHWH, and His unique relationship with Israel, emphasizing His faithfulness and sovereign rule over His chosen people throughout their history, despite their repeated failures. It sets the tone for a doxological conclusion, shifting focus from human sin to divine perfection.
* **"from everlasting to everlasting":** This temporal phrase emphasizes the eternal nature and timeless sovereignty of God. It declares that God's blessedness, His character, and His reign are without beginning or end, transcending all limitations of time. This concept reinforces His unchanging faithfulness and provides a secure foundation for hope and trust, regardless of historical circumstances or human transience.
* **"and let all the people say, Amen.":** This is a powerful call for communal affirmation and participation in worship. The command "let all the people say" highlights the corporate nature of praise, inviting the entire congregation to actively and vocally assent to the truth of God's eternal blessedness. The word "Amen" signifies a fervent "so be it," a collective agreement, and a desire for the declared praise to be established and true, binding the community in shared faith.
* **"Praise ye the LORD.":** This concluding phrase, *Hallelujah*, serves as a final, universal exhortation to worship. It is a direct command or invitation for everyone—not just Israel, but all people—to offer praise to God. Its placement at the very end of the psalm and the book functions as a powerful, enduring call to ceaseless adoration, summarizing the ultimate purpose of life: to glorify God.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 106:48 masterfully employs several literary devices to achieve its profound impact. The primary device is **Doxology**, a formal expression of praise to God, which serves as a liturgical conclusion not only to Psalm 106 but also to Book Four of the Psalter. This doxological structure provides a powerful theological anchor, shifting the narrative focus from Israel's sinfulness back to God's unchanging character and worthiness. The phrase "and let all the people say, Amen" exemplifies **Call and Response**, a common feature in ancient Israelite worship, where the leader or psalmist issues a declaration, and the congregation responds with affirmation. This device fosters communal participation and solidarity in worship. Furthermore, the use of **Hyperbole** is evident in "let all the people," which, while literally meaning every person, emphasizes the universal desire and command for God's praise to extend beyond Israel to all humanity. Finally, the entire verse functions as a form of **Inclusio** when considered within the broader context of the Psalter's doxologies, creating a structural and thematic unity across the different books, reinforcing the overarching message of God's eternal praise.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 106:48 encapsulates profound theological truths that resonate throughout the biblical narrative. It underscores the foundational doctrine of God's eternality and immutability, declaring Him to be "from everlasting to everlasting." This attribute means God is not bound by time; He is self-existent, unchanging in His character, power, and faithfulness. This truth provides immense comfort and security, as His promises and His nature remain constant despite the shifting sands of human history and our own fickle hearts. The call for "all the people" to say "Amen" highlights the corporate dimension of faith and worship, emphasizing that belief is not merely individual but finds its fullest expression in community. This communal affirmation transforms individual praise into a powerful, unified declaration, reflecting the unity of God's people in their adoration. The final "Praise ye the LORD" (Hallelujah) serves as a timeless summons, reminding us that praise is the proper and ultimate response to God's revelation and redemptive acts.

* [Psalms 41:13](/psalms/41-13 "Psalms 41:13 - Doxology of Book One")
* [Psalms 72:19](/psalms/72-19 "Psalms 72:19 - Doxology of Book Two")
* [Nehemiah 8:6](/nehemiah/8-6 "Nehemiah 8:6 - The People's Amen to Ezra's Blessing")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 106:48 offers a timeless blueprint for authentic worship and a profound reminder of God's enduring nature. In a world characterized by constant change and uncertainty, the declaration that the LORD God of Israel is "from everlasting to everlasting" anchors our faith in an unshakeable reality. Our praise is not to be dictated by fleeting circumstances or emotional states, but by the unchanging character of God Himself. This verse calls us to a worship that transcends our immediate experiences, rooted in His eternal sovereignty and faithfulness. Furthermore, the communal "Amen" challenges us to consider the corporate dimension of our faith. Are we actively participating in and affirming the truths declared in our communities of faith? Do our lives, both individually and collectively, echo the "Amen" and "Hallelujah" to God's greatness? The concluding "Praise ye the LORD" is a perpetual invitation to live lives of continuous adoration, recognizing that praise is not just an act we perform, but a posture of the heart and a way of being that acknowledges God's supreme worth in every facet of our existence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God as "from everlasting to everlasting" impact your trust in His promises and His character, especially during times of personal or global instability?**
* **In what ways can you more intentionally participate in the "Amen" of your faith community, both in corporate worship and in daily life?**
* **Beyond formal worship, how can your daily life become a continuous "Praise ye the LORD," reflecting His glory in your actions, words, and attitudes?**
* **Considering the historical context of Israel's unfaithfulness in Psalm 106, what does this doxological conclusion teach us about God's enduring mercy and the ultimate triumph of His plan?**

### FAQ

**Why is this doxology placed at the end of Psalm 106 and Book Four of the Psalter?**

Answer: The placement of this doxology at the end of Psalm 106 and as the conclusion of Book Four of the Psalter (Psalms 90-106) is highly significant. Psalm 106 itself is a somber recounting of Israel's persistent rebellion and God's enduring patience and judgment. Ending such a psalm, and a book, with a grand declaration of praise serves several crucial functions. Theologically, it shifts the ultimate focus from human failure and sin back to the unchanging faithfulness and sovereignty of God. It reminds the reader that despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains worthy of eternal praise and His covenant promises endure. Liturgically, these doxologies (like those in [Psalms 41:13](/psalms/41-13 "Psalms 41:13 - Doxology of Book One") and [Psalms 72:19](/psalms/72-19 "Psalms 72:19 - Doxology of Book Two")) serve as formal closures to major sections of the Psalter, providing a sense of completion and emphasizing the overarching theme of God's glory and dominion throughout the entire collection. It ensures that the final word is one of praise and hope, grounded in God's eternal nature.

**What is the significance of the communal "Amen" and "Hallelujah" in this verse?**

Answer: The communal "Amen" ("let all the people say, Amen") and the concluding "Hallelujah" ("Praise ye the LORD") are deeply significant for ancient Israelite worship and for believers today. "Amen" (אָמֵן) is a powerful Hebrew affirmation meaning "so be it," "truly," or "let it be established." When the congregation says "Amen," they are not merely agreeing passively but actively assenting to the truth of the preceding praise or prayer, making it their own. It signifies solidarity, commitment, and a desire for God's will to be fulfilled. This practice is seen throughout the Old Testament, such as when the people responded to Ezra's blessing in [Nehemiah 8:6](/nehemiah/8-6 "Nehemiah 8:6 - The People's Amen to Ezra's Blessing"). "Hallelujah" (הַלְלוּיָהּ) is a compound of "Praise ye!" and "Yah" (a short form of YHWH, the LORD). It is a direct, imperative call to worship God. Both terms underscore the corporate nature of worship and the active participation required from the community. They transform individual faith into a collective declaration of God's worthiness, binding believers together in shared adoration and purpose.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 106:48, with its grand doxology to the "LORD God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting," finds its ultimate and richest fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The eternal nature of God, celebrated in this verse, is perfectly embodied in Christ, who is declared to be "the same yesterday, today, and forever" in [Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the same"). He is the eternal Word who was "in the beginning with God, and was God" ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word was God")). The "God of Israel" who demonstrated enduring covenant faithfulness throughout the nation's tumultuous history is fully revealed in Jesus, who came not to abolish but to fulfill the Law and the Prophets ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). He is the true Israel, the faithful Son, and the mediator of a new and better covenant ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Superior Covenant")). The call for "all the people to say, Amen" resonates profoundly in the New Testament, where Christ Himself is called "the Amen, the faithful and true witness" in [Revelation 3:14](/revelation/3-14 "Revelation 3:14 - Jesus, the Amen"). In Him, "all the promises of God find their 'Yes' and 'Amen'" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are 'Yes' in Christ")), signifying that all God's redemptive purposes are affirmed and established through His work. The universal exhortation "Praise ye the LORD" culminates in the worship of the Lamb who was slain, as every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea declares, "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!" ([Revelation 5:13](/revelation/5-13 "Revelation 5:13 - Worthy is the Lamb")). Thus, this ancient doxology finds its most glorious and comprehensive expression in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the eternal God worthy of all praise from all peoples.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 41:13

Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen.

Psalms 89:52

Blessed [be] the LORD for evermore. Amen, and Amen.

Psalms 72:18

¶ Blessed [be] the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.

Psalms 72:19

And blessed [be] his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled [with] his glory; Amen, and Amen.

Psalms 105:45

That they might observe his statutes, and keep his laws. Praise ye the LORD.

Psalms 106:1

¶ Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.

1 Chronicles 29:10

¶ Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed [be] thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever.